What this construction is
A gatefold box opens as two doors from the centre rather than as a single lid, so the interior is revealed outward from the middle. It is the most theatrical opening we make and the one clients remember.
Rigid board on this construction, specifically
A printed board gatefold prints right across the interior spread, which is what makes the opening an event. The doors need enough board weight to stay flat, or they bow and the centre line gaps.
Getting the fit right
The two doors have to meet exactly at the centre line, and they have to stay met. A gatefold that stands slightly open at the join reads as broken, so the closure — magnets, a ribbon or a lip — is not optional here.
The mistake to avoid
Two doors means two hinges and twice the chance of one sitting proud. Check the closed box at the centre line on the sample; that join is the only thing anyone looks at.
Where it is used
Sets, presentation pieces and anything where the opening is meant to be an event — bridal, corporate gifting and launch packaging in particular.
Why rigid board
Board wrapped in paper or textured stock. The lightest and most shippable of the constructions, and the one that gives the widest colour and texture range.
Putting your logo on rigid board
Board is the best surface of all for print. Foil, deboss, spot varnish and flat colour all work, and fine typography holds.
Cutting the interior in rigid board
A board box is built around its insert; the insert is usually a die-cut foam or board platform wrapped in the lining material.
Keep dry. Board recovers from a light knock better than lacquer, but a wet mark is permanent.
What we need from you
| What we need | Why |
|---|---|
| Piece dimensions | Sets the interior |
| Rigid board colour | Matched to a Pantone reference or a swatch |
| Logo artwork | Vector gives the cleanest die or screen |
| Rigid board on this construction | A printed board gatefold prints right across the interior spread, which is what makes the opening an event. |
Frequently asked questions
Is rigid board a good choice for a gatefold box?
A printed board gatefold prints right across the interior spread, which is what makes the opening an event. The doors need enough board weight to stay flat, or they bow and the centre line gaps.
How does rigid board wear on this construction?
Keep dry. Board recovers from a light knock better than lacquer, but a wet mark is permanent.
Can it be made in our colour?
Yes — the rigid board is matched to a Pantone reference or a physical swatch, and confirmed on a sample.
What logo methods suit rigid board?
Board is the best surface of all for print. Foil, deboss, spot varnish and flat colour all work, and fine typography holds.
Can I see it before ordering?
Yes. A physical pre-production sample is made to your specification and the bulk run is held to the sample you approve.
Make your gatefold boxes
Tell us the piece, your brand and the quantity you have in mind. We’ll send photos of our work and one clear, all-in quote.