Description
Gatefold jackets for vinyl records are a type of album cover that opens like a book, typically with two panels that fold open. These jackets are often used for albums with extensive artwork or liner notes.
Here at Pressing Media we manufacture standard twelve inch Black Vinyl Records (140gram) with side A & side B full color labels applied then inserted into protective white dust sleeves.
We then hand assemble your vinyl records into a four panel gatefold jacket with a spine and pocket. Jackets are offset printed in full color CMYK on 20pt C1S board stock with AQ water base coating.
Our pricing is ALL IN and includes cutting lacquers, plating test pressings, retail barcode, prepress, PDF proofs, assembly, insertion, anti-staticbags for the jackets & one drop shipment to your door in Canada or the USA. Estimated turnaround time is 6 to 8 weeks from test pressing approvals.
The gatefold design offers more space for images, lyrics, and other extras, making it a popular choice for collectors and musicians who want to add a premium feel to their releases. Designers can experiment with creative layouts, incorporating both front and back covers, plus the interior folds, to tell a visual story that complements the music.
Due to the double layer of material, gatefolds tend to be more durable than standard single-sleeve covers. Gatefold jackets are often considered more collectible, as they offer a more immersive packaging experience.
Gatefold vinyl jackets became widely popular in the 1960s and 1970s, especially with classic rock, jazz, and concept albums. Many iconic records from that era (e.g., Pink Floyd’s The Wall, The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band) were released in gatefold formats. This has made them a nostalgic symbol of vinyl’s golden age.
Gatefold jackets are popular because they offer an elevated packaging for both musicians and fans. The combination of aesthetic appeal, practical functionality, and nostalgic value makes them a preferred choice, especially for high-profile or special edition vinyl releases.
