March 9, 2022

How to Create a Brochure

Individuals exchanging professional brochures.

Brochures are the ideal marketing tool when you need to communicate more than just a simple message, a single offer, or a brief announcement. Because of their larger size and strategic design, brochures offer ample space for content, including charts, photos, and longer messages.

Follow these steps to create an eye-catching brochure that will effectively capture attention and educate your audience.

Designing a brochure

Your brochure’s design is important for making sure all the information is laid out in a clear, professional, and aesthetically pleasing way.

Step 1: Determine how the brochure will be folded

How you fold your paper will determine how you’ll lay out your content. Even more than that, brochure folds help the reader navigate information easily. You want to make sure each message is in the right place so that the flow of information makes sense.

There are three main types of brochure folds:

  • Tri-fold: Tri-fold brochures are created by folding a piece of paper into three sections. The flaps fold in over one another. This brochure style has lots of room for distinct sections of content, and fits easily in standard envelopes for mailing.
  • Z-fold: Z-fold brochures are also folded into three sections. Instead of folding the sections inward, they are folded in opposite directions to make an accordion shape. Z-folds make it easier for content to span multiple panels.
  • Half-fold: Half-fold brochures are made by folding a piece of paper in half, leading with the short end. This style leaves lots of room for photos or images.

Step 2: Add copy and imagery

With your fold style selected, it’s time to add your content to the panels. Break the sections up to ensure the flow of information makes sense.

Here are a few suggestions on what to include in your brochure:

  • Your brand story
  • Your competitive advantages
  • Customer testimonials
  • Product and service highlights (with pricing)
  • Contact information
  • Special offers or discounts
  • A clear call to action

Remember: even though brochures have space for a lot of copy, it will not be enjoyable to read if it’s just a wall of text. Insert charts, images, callout boxes and bullet points to break it up. Make sure everything is clear and readable — you don’t want it to be too busy!

Additionally, make sure all your visuals are on brand! Design the brochure so it uses branded elements, including your business’s color scheme, fonts, imagery, and logo.

Step 3: Work with a graphic designer

Designing your first brochure can be challenging. For the best results, work with a professional print shop for custom graphic design. A designer can provide suggestions on the right fold type for your goals and content. They’ll take your logo, design preferences, and information to produce a polished and professional brochure.

Examples of brochures

Printing a brochure

A well-designed brochure needs great print quality to really make a statement!

Step 1: Choose the right paper

There are many paper options that can help you achieve the desired look for your brochure. First and foremost, you’ll need to decide on the paper weight. Brochures can be printed on thin paper, but this can seem flimsy and unprofessional. Upgrading to a thicker cardstock can make a simple brochure feel like a premium offering. You don’t want the paper to be too thick, though. Heavy paper weights are harder to fold, which can cause the edges to crack.

Paper coatings are also important. Most brochure paper options come with a glossy coating to help your images pop. Adding spot gloss or select foil accents can draw attention to specific elements of your brochure and make them stand out even more.

Step 2: Select the size

Paper size is another important consideration. The most common brochure paper sizes are standard Letter, Legal and Tabloid. However, 11” x 25.5”, 9” x 8”, and 9” x 16” are also popular.

Carefully consider your preferred folding style when selecting your paper. You can practice folding a simple piece of paper in your desired size to get a sense of how big the printed areas will be once it’s folded. Your graphic designer can also help you choose the right size to fit all the content you plan to include.

Step 3: Work with a local print shop

A local business that offers professional printing services will be able to give expert advice on printing brochures. They can provide samples to help you understand the look and feel of each paper option, and help you decide which is right for your project. A print shop near you will also make sure everything prints correctly, such as your colors, foiling, and any other premium accents.

For one-stop service for professional brochures, visit PostNet! We offer brochure design and printing services that will deliver the highest-quality outcome.

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