One Sided Printing Explained
- The Fold Print Expert
- Oct 24
- 3 min read
FAQ: What You Need to Know
About One-Sided Printing
What does one sided printing mean?
It means printing on one side of the paper stock before the folder is folded and assembled. This includes the outside covers, spine (for expandable folders), and inside pockets.
Can I print on the inside pockets with one-sided printing?
Yes! Inside pockets are part of the same printed design as the outside covers.
Do I need two sided printing for full coverage?
Choose two sided printing if you want a completely printed interior or extra design flexibility.
What is the difference between one and two sided printing?
One Sided Print
Focuses the design on the front cover, back cover, and inside pockets of the folder for a streamlined presentation.
Two Sided Print
Extends your design story to include the inside panels, maximizing the marketing and informational value of the folder.
What Does One Sided Printing Mean for Custom Pocket Folders?
When people order custom printed pocket folders, one of the most common questions we here at FolderWorks™ is:
“I want printing on the inside pockets. Do I need to request two sided printing?
The answer might surprise you, and understanding it can help you design folders that look amazing.
How One Sided Printing Works on Folder Templates
In the world of custom pocket folders, the pockets are printed on the same side of the paper stock as the front and back cover before the folder is folded and assembled. This means one sided printing allows you to print on:
The outside front and back covers.
The outside spine (expandable folders only)
The inside pockets.
Even though the pockets are inside your finished folders, they’re part of the same printed side of the sheet. So with one sided printing, you can absolutely add logos, contact info, or design elements to the inside pockets.
Design Tips For Inside Pockets
Why Pocket Artwork Must Be Upside Down
Here’s a detail that catches many designers off guard:
Pocket artwork must be placed upside down on your template.
When your folder is printed flat, the pockets are at the bottom of the sheet. Those sections flip upward when the folder is folded and glued. That means your artwork must be rotated 180° on the template to appear right-side up on the finished product.
The Right and Left Pocket Switch
Another common surprise: folder templates show your folder in its flat, unconstructed form. This means:
The right pocket on the template becomes the left pocket on the finished folder.
The left pocket on the template becomes the right pocket on the finished folder.
Artwork on the right pocket of your finished folder needs to be placed on the left side of the template. Think of it like a mirror image.
Two Sided Printing for Maximum Coverage
Two sided printing means both sides of the paper stock are printed before folding. As for one sided print, the pockets are printed on the same side of the sheet as one sided print. The second side of the sheet extends your design to the inside panels. Choose this option when you want:
A fully printed interior
Maximum design coverage
A bold, premium look
It’s great for making a big statement, but most customers find one sided printing meets their needs perfectly.
We’re Here To Help
FolderWorks™ offers easy to use templates for all our custom print folders, but we know understanding folder templates and printing technology can feel overwhelming at first. Here are a few other posts to help you:
Ready to design custom printed pocket folders that will make a lasting impression? Contact FolderWorks™ today and let’s bring your vision to life.
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