Originally Posted by
mwenz
Basically one simply communicates to the printer (could be yourself if self-printing) where the fold lines are. It is their responsiblity to do the fold--and you are responsible for where the design elements are located in relation to the folds and bleed area (if any).
The math is simple regardless of paper size. Assuming US Letter size...
First add 0.125" (1/8th) to the total length. Divide that total length by 3 and you will have the width of the two panels. Subtract 0.125" and you will have the width of the short panel (the first folded in panel).
So, 11 + 0.125 = 11.125". 11.125 / 3 = 3.708", which are the wide panels. 3.708 - 0.125 = 3.583" is the width of the first fold panel.
I add guidelines to the fold zones. Duplicate the page, reverse the guides and design accordingly.
If you are printing these, I would recommend taking them to a quick printer like FedExOffice in the US or similar wherever you are. They usually have folding machines and do it for a relatively cheap cost. Fact is, I would talk with them about printing them as well if not doing but a handful. Else I would look to one of the on-line printers for doing quantities. I often use Quantum in the US.
I whipped up a US Letter template and have attached it.
Mike