One of my loves in this business is helping clients with large format graphics and portable displays. When presenting at an event or working with a customer it is important to create a sensory experience that tells your story and reason for being. It is also important to have “leave behinds” that continue to tell your story long after you are gone.
Recently we have produced several literature packages consisting of pocket folders and the materials inside for clients to use with customers and events. I don’t know what it is but there is something special about a pocket folder printed on nice paper, with a nice coating, and a colorful and informative message inside and out. I thought I would be fun to share some inspirational examples about how making and designing customized pocket folders can help build your business by telling your story both during and after your events.
Custom die-cut pockets and panels
Custom die-cuts let you alter the entire shape of the folder so you can fully customize it to match the contents inside or establish a brand identity. There are a variety of interesting design ideas to apply to your custom die cuts. For example, the folder panels and pockets can be shaped to highlight a strong design element, such as a logo. If you’re looking for something a little more playful, use die cuts shapes that have relevance to your brand identity, such as a liqueur bottle for a spirits rollout.
Die-cut windows
Since folders open like a book, we naturally think of the front panel as the front cover while the inside is the content. A die-cut window can allow you to display this content directly from the cover by offering a sneak peek of what’s inside. This intrigues and makes the reader eager to look inside to see what lies within. Die cut windows can be any shape, allowing you to conform to the shape of the design element you want to highlight. Alternatively, you can let the window itself be the design – cutting a design into the front and having a color or pattern behind it.
Stock thickness
The thickness of the stock can affect the way it is perceived. If something appears flimsy we naturally think it be cheaply made and of poor quality. It’s the same thing for stock thickness. Thicker, heavier stock has a higher quality feel, reflecting well on both the design and the brand it represents.
Pocket folder templates
Check out http://www.neenahpaper.com/Resources/DieLines/FolderDieLines for a nice library of design templates to use for your next pocket folder project.
