The Difference Between One and Two Sided Folder Printing

The Difference Between One and Two Sided Folder Printing

Requesting a custom folder quote is sort of like ordering fried eggs. Give the wrong instructions, and you won't get what you really want.

A common and troublesome issue when ordering custom printed folders involves the distinction between one-sided and two-sided printing. It’s a deceptively simple concept that tends to trip people up.

Imagine walking into a diner and ordering eggs. The waiter asks if you want them “sunny-side up” or “over easy.” If you don’t know what those phrases mean and you’re not even sure if there’s a difference between them, there’s a good chance that you won’t end up with what you really want.

You might run into a similar problem when you’re requesting a folder quote, and the customer service representative asks, “How would you like your folder printed: one side or two?” It sounds like an easy enough question, but if you’re not familiar with how folders are printed and made, you might not give the right instructions.

It wouldn’t be unreasonable for someone to assume that a folder with “double-sided printing” is printed on the front and back cover. This seems logical enough when your folder is closed and in hand. But the thing to remember is that this isn’t the way your folder is actually printed.

Open up that hypothetical folder and lay it flat. Before your folder is printed, folded and assembled, it’s just a flat sheet of paper stock. Instead of looking at your folder’s front and back, consider its inside and outside. Also remember that before your folder is assembled, the pocket area will be on the same “side” as the front and back cover.

  • If your folder is printed only on the outside or only on the inside, it’s one-sided printing.
  • If your folder is printed on both the inside and outside, it’s two-sided printing.
  • For the purpose of this process, include the folder’s pockets as part of its “outside.”

One Sided PrintingTwo Sided PrintingVisualizing the way that your folder will be printed ensures that you’ll request the correct type of printing in your quote. This will help you get an accurate price estimate and prevent any future mistakes. Ultimately, you can be confident that the finished product will match the image in your mind.

Posted in Folder Designs, Print Design, Printing Technology

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Printwand Staff
Author: Printwand Staff

Our marketing, design and printing experts are passionate about sharing their knowledge. We're eager to help make your vision a reality in print. Be sure to explore the rest of the Printwand blog for more reliable, easy-to-understand information.


One Response to “The Difference Between One and Two Sided Folder Printing”

  • 1
    Geneva Young says:

    Explained with great example. Really a good way to explain things ! Description with snapshots made your content much more interesting and readable. Thank you for sharing information.


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