Close-up of folded sheets showing wrinkle-free results

Avoiding Wrinkles in Your Folding Machine

When you’re getting started with a folding machine, wrinkles are a common—and fixable—issue. Use the tips below to keep sheets flat and your output consistent.

Best Practices to Prevent Wrinkling

  1. Set folding pressure correctly

    Identify where wrinkles appear on the sheet to pinpoint which roller set needs adjustment. Re-set those specific fold rollers to balance pressure and eliminate creases.

  2. Verify folder setup

    The sheet should be flat as it leaves the feeder and enters the fold rollers. If you see gaps under the sheet, check for: skewed side lay, incorrect feeding, mis-positioned sheet smoothers or transport belts, or a machine speed that’s too high.

  3. Arrange pages correctly on the press sheet

    Wrinkles along the head can stem from imposition. Confirm the imposition matches the stock and fold sequence. If needed, split pages to fold separately or use a thinner stock.

  4. Maintain the machine

    Worn fold rollers create bumps that translate into wrinkles. Replacing tired components can restore smooth feeding and clean folds. We stock a full range of replacement parts for folding machines.

With correct setup, balanced pressure, and well-maintained rollers, you can eliminate wrinkles and keep production moving smoothly.