3 Creative Brochure Layout Ideas for Inspiration

Unlocking Creativity in Brochure Design

Brochures are still one of the most versatile print tools in marketing and communication. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, print materials remain a core part of many small business marketing strategies, especially for local audiences and events.³ But in a world of digital overload, a brochure only works if it feels worth picking up.

That’s where creative layouts come in.

Instead of defaulting to a standard trifold, you can use format and structure—folds, shapes, interactivity—to guide the reader’s eye, pace the story, and create a memorable physical experience. Below are three creative brochure layout ideas you can adapt to almost any industry, plus multiple real-world-style examples of how to make each layout shine.

1. The Accordion Fold Adventure

An accordion brochure is made from a single sheet folded back and forth into a zigzag. It can be compact when closed and surprisingly expansive when fully opened.

Think of it as a storyboard in your hands—perfect for timelines, journeys, or step-by-step processes.

When to Use an Accordion Layout

The accordion fold works especially well when:

• You want to show progression (before/after, day-by-day, step-by-step)
• You have visual content that benefits from a panoramic reveal
• The brochure may be displayed fully open on a table or wall
• You want readers to feel like they’re unfolding a story or map

Example 1: Travel Agency “City-in-a-Day” Brochure

Imagine a travel agency promoting a one-day city tour.

Layout concept:

• Panel 1 (Cover): Hero photo of the city skyline, tour name, and a bold tagline like “See the City in 24 Hours.”
• Panel 2: Morning itinerary (breakfast spots, museum visit) with icons for time, location, and difficulty.
• Panel 3: Afternoon activities (walking tour, lunch, local market).
• Panel 4: Evening options (sunset viewpoint, theater, nightlife).
• Back panels (when fully opened): A full-width illustrated map connecting all stops.

Why it works:

• The accordion mirrors the chronological flow of the day.
• When fully opened, the brochure becomes a visual map that travelers can literally follow.
• Each panel can be scanned quickly, which is crucial for tourists on the go.

Pro Tip: Use consistent visual markers (like color-coded time blocks or icons) across panels so readers don’t get lost as they unfold the brochure.

Example 2: Music Festival Lineup Guide

For a music festival with multiple stages, an accordion layout can act like a pocket-sized schedule.

Content structure:

• Front cover: Festival logo, dates, and a bold graphic.
• Inside panels: Each panel dedicated to one stage, with:
  • Stage name and color code
  • Timeline from opening to closing
  • Headliners highlighted with larger type
• Back side fully opened: A large site map with food, restrooms, and emergency points clearly marked.

Design notes:

• Use color coding for each stage so attendees can quickly find their preferred acts.
• Consider printing on slightly thicker stock to withstand being folded/unfolded repeatedly.

Important Note: For events, always leave space for safety and accessibility information—emergency exits, medical tents, or accessibility services. Clear communication is not just good design; it supports public safety best practices recommended by organizations like the CDC.[ ^cdc ]

Example 3: Nonprofit Impact Timeline

A nonprofit might use an accordion brochure to tell its story over time.

Panels could include:

1. Founding story and mission
2. Early milestones
3. Key projects and impact stats
4. Testimonials or quotes
5. How to get involved (donate, volunteer, partner)

Visual approach:

• Use a horizontal timeline running across all panels when fully opened.
• Highlight key numbers in large type (e.g., “5,000 meals served,” “120 scholarships awarded”).
• Include real photos to humanize the story.

Pro Tip: When using data or statistics, cite credible sources or internal annual reports. Clear, honest metrics build trust and make your brochure more persuasive.

2. The Circular Carousel Brochure

The circular carousel is a rotating brochure made of layered circular pieces connected at the center. As the reader rotates the top layer, different “slices” of information are revealed.

It’s part brochure, part interactive toy—and that’s exactly why people remember it.

When to Use a Circular Carousel

This layout is ideal when:

• You have multiple categories or features that are equal in importance
• You want a playful, interactive experience
• The brochure will be used at booths, exhibitions, or product demos
• You’re targeting audiences who respond to novelty and tactile design

Example 4: Product Feature Wheel for a Tech Gadget

Imagine launching a new smart home device.

Structure:

• Top disc: Product photo in the center, with a window cut-out that reveals text from the disc below as you rotate it.
• Bottom disc: Divided into segments, each describing a key feature:
  • Energy efficiency
  • Security features
  • App integration
  • Voice control
  • Warranty & support

Design details:

• Use icons for each feature segment.
• Include a QR code on the back linking to a full user manual or demo video.
• Keep copy concise—this format rewards short, scannable text.

Pro Tip: Use sturdy cardstock and a metal or durable plastic fastener at the center. Flimsy materials make the rotation feel cheap and can hurt the overall brand perception.

Example 5: College Program Selector Wheel

A university or community college could use a circular brochure at open houses to help students explore programs.

Concept:

• Top disc: “Find Your Program” with windows labeled by interest area (e.g., “Love working with people?” “Into tech?” “Creative at heart?”).
• Bottom disc: Each segment lists matching majors or programs (e.g., Nursing, Social Work, Computer Science, Graphic Design) with a short description.

Why it works:

• Students interact with the brochure like a decision aid, not just a handout.
• It’s easy to remember and likely to be kept—even pinned on a dorm wall.

Important Note: When designing for education, make sure your content aligns with accurate program descriptions and admission requirements. Institutions often publish official catalogs and fact sheets, which can be referenced or summarized for clarity.²

Example 6: Museum or Exhibition “Theme Explorer” Wheel

Museums and galleries can use a circular carousel to help visitors explore different themes within an exhibition.

Use case:

• Each slice of the wheel represents a theme (e.g., “Innovation,” “Nature,” “Identity,” “History”).
• As visitors rotate the top layer, they see:
  • A brief explanation of the theme
  • 2–3 must-see pieces related to it
  • A short question or prompt to encourage reflection

Design suggestions:

• Use a muted color palette that matches the exhibition branding.
• Add small map icons or gallery numbers to help visitors find each piece.

Pro Tip: Pair the wheel with a digital component—such as QR codes linking to audio guides or videos—to create a mixed-media experience that appeals to different learning styles.

3. The Puzzle Piece Pamphlet

The puzzle piece brochure uses multiple interlocking shapes that assemble into a larger image or message. Instead of flipping pages, the reader builds the brochure.

It’s tactile, playful, and perfect for topics that involve complexity, collaboration, or discovery.

When to Use a Puzzle Layout

This format is especially effective when:

• You want to communicate that many parts make up a whole
• The message involves teamwork, systems, or multi-step processes
• You’re targeting schools, workshops, or creative audiences
• You want the brochure to double as an activity or keepsake

Example 7: Educational Workshop “Build the Concept” Kit

Imagine a STEM workshop for middle school students.

Concept:

• Each puzzle piece represents part of a concept—for example, the scientific method:
  • Question
  • Hypothesis
  • Experiment
  • Observation
  • Conclusion
• On each piece, you print:
  • A simple definition
  • An icon
  • A short example

Students receive the pieces in a small envelope and assemble them during the workshop.

Why it works:

• The assembly process reinforces learning through hands-on interaction, which can support engagement and memory, especially in younger learners.¹
• The completed puzzle becomes a visual summary students can take home.

Pro Tip: Use thick, matte cardstock and clear die-cut shapes. Overly intricate cuts can tear easily and frustrate users.

Example 8: Corporate “Values Puzzle” for Onboarding

A company could use a puzzle brochure to introduce its core values to new employees.

Structure:

• Each piece = one core value (e.g., Integrity, Innovation, Collaboration, Customer Focus).
• The assembled puzzle forms:
  • The company logo
  • Or a symbolic image (e.g., a lightbulb, globe, or handshake).

Content ideas:

• Front of each piece: Value name and icon.
• Back of each piece: A short story or example of that value in action.

How it’s used:

• In onboarding sessions, employees put the puzzle together as a group.
• HR can use it as a conversation starter about company culture.

Important Note: Keep the number of pieces manageable (4–8 for most uses). Too many pieces can feel like a toy rather than a communication tool.

Example 9: Health Campaign “Healthy Habits” Puzzle

For a public health campaign, a puzzle brochure can highlight how different habits contribute to overall wellness.

Pieces might include:

• Nutrition
• Physical activity
• Sleep
• Stress management
• Preventive care

Each piece could feature:

• A key tip (e.g., “Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week” based on guidelines from organizations such as the CDC).
• A simple icon (apple, running shoe, bed, etc.).
• A QR code linking to more resources.

When assembled, the puzzle forms a heart or human silhouette, reinforcing the idea that all habits work together.

Pro Tip: For health-related content, cross-check recommendations against credible sources like the CDC or NIH. Accurate information builds trust and can support better decision-making.

Design Best Practices for Creative Brochure Layouts

No matter which layout you choose, some fundamentals will help your brochure look polished and perform well.

1. Start with the Message, Not the Fold

It’s tempting to pick a cool format first, but always start with:

• Who you’re talking to
• What you need them to know
• What you want them to do next (call, visit, sign up, donate)

Then choose the layout that best supports that journey.

2. Use Visual Hierarchy

In creative formats, hierarchy is even more important:

• Make headlines and key calls-to-action the most prominent elements.
• Use consistent typography across panels or pieces.
• Reserve bold or accent colors for the most important info.

3. Balance Creativity with Legibility

• Avoid overly small type—especially on curved or irregular shapes.
• Maintain sufficient contrast between text and background.
• Test legibility by printing a draft at actual size.

4. Prototype Before You Print

Especially for die-cuts, folds, and rotating pieces:

1. Print a rough mockup on regular paper.
2. Cut and fold it yourself.

3. Check:

   • Does it feel intuitive to use?
   • Does any text get hidden or cut off?
   • Does the order of information make sense as it’s unfolded or rotated?

Pro Tip: Ask someone unfamiliar with the project to interact with the prototype. Watch where they hesitate—that’s where your layout needs clarification.

5. Consider Sustainability and Cost

Creative formats often use more material or complex finishing.

• Choose recycled or sustainably sourced paper where possible.
• Limit the number of inks if you’re on a budget.
• Use QR codes to move long-form content online and keep the brochure concise.

FAQs About Creative Brochure Layouts

1. Are creative brochure layouts more expensive to produce?

Often, yes—but not always. Costs increase with:

• Custom die-cuts (puzzle pieces, circular shapes)
• Specialty stocks and finishes
• Complex folding or assembly

You can control costs by:

• Limiting the number of unique shapes
• Printing in standard sizes and gang-running jobs
• Using one or two specialty brochures for key events, and simpler layouts for everyday use

2. How do I know which layout is right for my project?

Ask yourself:

• Do I need to show a sequence? → Accordion
• Do I have several equal features or categories? → Circular carousel
• Am I explaining a system made of parts or encouraging participation? → Puzzle piece layout

Match the format to the structure of your content and the experience you want the reader to have.

3. Can these layouts work in digital form too?

Yes, the concepts can inspire digital experiences:

• Accordion → Scroll-based storytelling or step-by-step landing pages
• Circular carousel → Interactive feature wheels or sliders
• Puzzle → Drag-and-drop learning modules or onboarding flows

However, the tactile impact is unique to print, so consider how each medium can play to its strengths.

4. What size should I use for these brochures?

There’s no single “correct” size, but consider:

• Accordion: Often based on standard sizes (e.g., 8.5” × 14” folded into several panels).
• Circular carousel: Common diameters range from 4” to 8” depending on how much text you need.
• Puzzle pieces: Keep the final assembled size manageable (e.g., 8” × 10") so it fits in a standard envelope or folder.

Always check with your printer for size recommendations and limitations.

5. How can I make sure my creative brochure is still accessible?

• Use readable font sizes and high contrast.
• Avoid relying on color alone to convey meaning—add labels or patterns.
• Provide a digital version (PDF or web page) for users who prefer screen readers or larger text.
• Keep language clear and straightforward, especially for critical information.

By choosing the right layout—accordion, circular carousel, or puzzle piece—and combining it with thoughtful content and solid design fundamentals, your brochure can become more than just paper. It can become a small, memorable experience that people actually want to open, explore, and keep.