How to Easily Make Eye-Catching Brochures on Google Docs

Creating professional polished brochures can seem intimidating. But with Google Docs, you can easily make beautiful, customized brochures right from your browser. Whether you need a brochure for your business, school project event, or another purpose, Google Docs has all the tools you need to make it happen.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step how to make different types of brochures on Google Docs. I’ll cover how to:

• Choose the right brochure format
• Set up your document
• Add columns, images, and other design elements
• Print and share your finished brochure

By the end you’ll know how to make brochures on Google Docs that get attention and effectively communicate your message. Let’s get started!

Choosing the Right Brochure Format

The first step in creating your brochure is deciding what format you want to use, Here are some of the most common brochure format options

Tri-Fold Brochure

This classic style folds into thirds, like a letter. The tri-fold creates 6 panels for you to fill with text, images, and other content. It’s one of the most versatile and popular options.

Bi-Fold Brochure

Also known as a half-fold, this style folds in half to create 4 panels or pages. It’s simple and convenient.

Single Sheet or One Page Brochure

As the name suggests, this type of brochure fits all the content on one side of one page. It’s great when you only need to convey a small amount of information.

Booklet Style

This brochure is bound together on one edge like a book. It allows for more pages and panels than other formats.

Once you decide which format suits your needs, you’re ready to set up your brochure template in Google Docs.

Setting Up Your Brochure in Google Docs

Google Docs makes it easy to set up any brochure style you want:

1. Open Google Docs and Start a New Document

Go to docs.google.com and click the multicolored “+” icon to start a new document.

2. Give Your Document a Title

Name your brochure by clicking “Untitled document” at the top and typing in your title.

3. Select a Template (Optional)

For a pre-made layout, click “Template gallery” and browse the Brochure section. Choose one to automatically apply the template.

4. Change the Page Orientation to Landscape

Go to File > Page setup and switch to Landscape mode. This makes it easier to create columns and other brochure elements.

5. Adjust Margins

Decrease the margins under Page Setup to give yourself more room to work. 0.5 inches all around is a good starting point.

Now your document is ready to be transformed into an eye-catching brochure! Next let’s look at how to add key design elements.

Creating the Look and Layout

With your brochure set up in Google Docs, it’s time for the fun creative part – designing the layout and look.

Use Columns for a Professional Feel

Columns make your brochure look polished. To add them:

• Go to Format > Columns
• Select the number of columns you want (2 or 3 is standard for brochures)
• Adjust the spacing between them under “Spacing”

Add Images and Graphics

Images help draw interest and break up text. To insert them:

• Click Insert > Image
• Upload an image from your computer or choose one of Google’s stock photos
• Resize and position the image as needed

Use Text Boxes and Shapes

Elements like text boxes, shapes, and lines allow you to section off and organize areas of your brochure. Find them under the Insert menu.

Pick an Eye-Catching Color Scheme

You can revamp the look just by changing colors. Select custom colors for:

• Background – Right click > Select background color
• Text – Highlight text > Right click > Select text color
• Shapes – Click shape > Select shape color

Include Logos and Branding

Insert your company logo, brand tagline, or other identity elements by going to Insert > Image. This makes your brochure look professional and memorable.

With columns, images, color schemes and more, you can create brochures with visual appeal. Now let’s go over adding the written content.

Writing and Formatting Your Content

Of course, the words in your brochure need to grab attention just like the design. Follow these tips when writing and formatting the content:

Use Brief, Scannable Text

Since brochures are skimmed, get right to the point. Use short paragraphs, bullet lists, and calls-to-action.

Make Key Text Stand Out

Try making headings and subheads larger or bold. You can also highlight important text.

Use Basic Formatting for Readability

Break up walls of text with line spacing. Use simple, clear fonts like Arial or Times New Roman in sizes like 12-14 points.

Check for Errors Before Finalizing

Proofread carefully for typos and awkward phrasing. Read the brochure out loud to catch errors.

Print as a Trial Run

Print a test copy to check if the formatting translates from the screen to paper. Make adjustments, then print the final version.

With inviting design and compelling content, your brochure is sure to impress! Let’s wrap up with tips for sharing and printing your new creation.

Printing and Sharing Your Brochures

You’ve put in the work to make an awesome brochure in Google Docs. Now it’s time to get it out into people’s hands!

Check Page Setup Before Printing

Go back to File > Page setup and make sure you’ve selected the correct paper size. This prevents printing errors.

Print Doubled Sided

For folded brochures, print double sided to have text and graphics on both sides. Your printer may do this automatically.

Share Digitally for Easy Access

Email a link to your brochure or embed it on webpages for digital sharing. Or export as a PDF.

Order Professional Printing

For bulk copies, order customized professional printing through Google Docs. Under File, select “Print,” then choose “Custom printing service.”

You Can Make Stunning Brochures with Google Docs

As you can see, Google Docs has all you need to create brochures—from choosing a format to sharing the final product.

With the steps in this guide, you can produce brochures that effectively promote your business, highlight your cause, or simply share information in an eye-catching way. Whether you’re making it for a school project or global company, remember to:

• Pick a format that fits your purpose
• Use columns, graphics, and other design elements for visual appeal
• Write scannable, engaging content
• Print and share your brochure for maximum impact