Folded self mailer guidelines

Here are some guidelines for creating a folded self-mailer:

What is a Folded Self-Mailer?

A folded self-mailer is a type of direct mail piece that is designed to be folded and mailed without an envelope. It is typically a single sheet of paper that is folded to create a compact, self-contained piece that can be mailed at a lower cost than a traditional envelope.

Design Considerations

When designing a folded self-mailer, keep the following considerations in mind:

  1. Size: Folded self-mailers are typically 6-8 inches wide and 9-12 inches long. This size allows for a compact, easy-to-mail piece that can still contain a significant amount of information.
  2. Folding: The most common folding pattern for a self-mailer is a letterfold, where the paper is folded in half lengthwise and then in half again widthwise. Other folding patterns, such as a gatefold or a accordion fold, can also be used.
  3. Content: Keep the content concise and focused on a single message or offer. Folded self-mailers are best suited for simple, straightforward messages that don't require a lot of complex information.
  4. Visuals: Use high-quality images and graphics to make your self-mailer stand out. Avoid clutter and keep the design clean and simple.
  5. Call-to-Action: Include a clear call-to-action (CTA) to encourage the recipient to take a specific action, such as visiting a website or making a phone call.

Design Elements

Here are some design elements to consider when creating a folded self-mailer:

  1. Headline: Use a bold, attention-grabbing headline to capture the recipient's attention.
  2. Body Copy: Keep the body copy concise and focused on the key message or offer.
  3. Images: Use high-quality images to break up the text and make the self-mailer more visually appealing.
  4. CTA: Include a clear CTA to encourage the recipient to take a specific action.
  5. Contact Information: Include your company's contact information, such as a website or phone number, to make it easy for the recipient to respond.

Tips and Best Practices

Here are some tips and best practices to keep in mind when creating a folded self-mailer:

  1. Keep it simple: Avoid clutter and keep the design clean and simple.
  2. Use high-quality paper: Use high-quality paper that is durable and easy to read.
  3. Test and refine: Test your self-mailer with a small group of recipients and refine the design based on feedback.
  4. Use a clear CTA: Make sure the CTA is clear and easy to understand.
  5. Track results: Track the results of your self-mailer campaign to see what's working and what's not.

Common Uses for Folded Self-Mailers

Folded self-mailers are commonly used for a variety of purposes, including:

  1. Direct Marketing: Use folded self-mailers to promote a product or service, or to drive traffic to a website.
  2. Event Promotions: Use folded self-mailers to promote an event, such as a conference or trade show.
  3. Non-Profit Fundraising: Use folded self-mailers to raise funds for a non-profit organization.
  4. Real Estate: Use folded self-mailers to promote a property or development.
  5. Education: Use folded self-mailers to promote a course or program.

I hope these guidelines and tips are helpful in creating a successful folded self-mailer!