A Gatefold Box—also called a double-door gift box, gate-opening magnetic box, or Bible-style box—opens from the center with two doors that swing outward. This creates a dramatic, stage-like reveal that’s perfect for premium unboxing moments in beauty, wine & gourmet, jewelry/accessories, PR kits, and brand launches.
Why Brands Choose Gatefold
Instant “ta-da” reveal: Center opening draws attention to your hero product and logo.
Premium feel: Rigid construction with hidden magnets, ribbons, or clasps.
Flexible layout: Works for singles, duos, or full collections with trays and tiers.
Structure & Closure Options
Two-door front with a rigid shell (typically 1.5–3.0 mm greyboard).
Closures: hidden magnetic catch by default; optional ribbon ties, metal clasps, or elastic loops.
Open-flat variants: doors can hinge to 180° for full-spread graphics or storytelling.
Popular Styles
Book-style shell + inner gatefold: layered reveal for extra ceremony.
Gatefold with shoulder/neck (frame): adds depth and luxury.
Gatefold + drawers/shelves: for sets and step displays.
Collapsible/knockdown version: reduces shipping volume (more complex to make).
Materials & Inserts
Board: 1.5–3.0 mm greyboard/box board (use 2.5–3.0 mm for heavy items).
Wraps: printed art paper with lamination, or specialty papers (linen, pearlescent, soft-touch, leather-grain, fabric-texture).
Inserts: EVA/velvet, paperboard step trays, molded pulp, thermoform—die-cut to fit and protect.
Hardware: magnets, ribbons, metal pulls, hidden handles as needed.
Finishing Ideas that Pop
Soft-touch / matte / gloss lamination for durability and feel.
Foil stamping (gold/silver/rose) along the door seam or logo for drama.
Emboss/deboss to add depth.
Spot UV or textured stocks for contrast.
Wraparound artwork that aligns when doors are closed and splits as they open.
Best-Fit Use Cases
Beauty & fragrance gift sets with velvet/EVA trays.
Wine/tea/gourmet boxes with shoulder frames and reinforced bases.
Electronics & accessories with hidden compartments for cables/cards.
PR & launch kits designed for photography and social sharing.
Gatefold vs. Other Gift Boxes
- Magnetic book-style:book-style is simpler and often cheaper; gatefolddelivers bigger reveal and center focus.
- Drawer box:drawer is slow, ritual “pull”; gatefoldis instant, wide-stage presentation.
- Lift-off lid (telescoping):lift-off is universal; gatefoldfeels more luxurious but is more complex.
Sampling & Production Tips
Magnet alignment: hold ±0.5 mm tolerance; cycle-test open/close.
Door gaps & edges: keep the center seam straight and even; wrap paper flat with no puckers.
Insert ergonomics: add finger notches/ribbons; reinforce for heavy products.
Transit protection: corners are vulnerable—use corner guards + dust bags; add a shipping sleeve/carton for e-commerce.
Scuff control: dark mattes benefit from anti-scratch matte film or protective spot gloss at touch points.
Durability tests: drop, compression/stacking, and hinge cycling for large/heavy sets.
Cost Drivers
Board thickness & overall size
Structural complexity (double doors, shoulder frame, drawers, magnets, hardware)
Wrap material & finish stack (soft-touch, foil, emboss, spot UV)
Insert material and die-cut complexity
Handwork share and MOQ
Sustainability Notes
Offer FSC® papers and recycled greyboard.
Prefer mono-material paper + paper insert for recyclability.
If using magnets/metal, design for easy disassembly.
For near-food/cosmetic use, keep low-odor specs and provide basic compliance statements.