All About Paper: Your Guide to Paper Sizes!

A while back, we talked about what “gsm” is and how it defines your product’s image, as well as the different paper types in All About Paper: Paper Weights and Different Paper Types, Explained. . In the second part of our Inkable Paper 101 series, we’ll give you nice references you can bookmark and reference back to, should you need any help with planning our your print materials.

PAPER SIZES

You probably think that the only paper sizes that really matter are A4, Letter, and DL sizes. However, knowing (or having a paper guide like the one below) about other paper sizes will save you from that headache of trying to figure out how to best copy and print materials for different purposes when the time comes.

Bookmark this page, or print out the Inkable Paper Guides and stick them on your board. You’ll never get lost again.

Used throughout the world, ISO 216 defines international standard (ISO) “A” and “B” paper sizes. This is based on each size being half of the size of the previous one, folded parallel to the shorter lengths. ISO 269 dictates the sizing of the “C” series, and this is generally used for envelopes.

INKABLE TIP: This system is bonzer for a lot of ace applications, like getting proper measurements for folding a catalogue to make it fit the next size down, or enlarging and reducing artwork without worrying about cutoff or margins.
Only DL sizes do not have a similar aspect ratio. DL sets paper dimensions to 99mm x 210mm. A Double DL size would be 198mm x 210mm.

A Series
Ranging from A0 (biggest) to A8 (smallest), each size is half the one before. A1 would be half the size of A0, A2 would be half the size of A1, and so on. Remember: The larger the number, the smaller the paper.

INKABLE TIP: The basis for the whole system is the A0 format which has an area of one square meter.

B Series

The B Paper Series is a less hardworking paper format used sometimes in the production of magazines and maps. However, it is not generally accepted by conventional photocopiers and printers, unlike the A and C Paper Series.

INKABLE TIP: The B paper format is based on a measure of size, unlike the A format which was created on the basis of a surface (A0 format has an area of one square meter). The width of a B0 paper is 1 meter.

C Series

The C series is used only for envelopes. Ranging from C0 (biggest) to C8 (smallest), each size is half the one before. As with the A paper series, remember that the larger the number, the smaller the paper.

INKABLE NOTE: At Inkable, we offer standard C4 (324mm x 229mm) and DL Wallet (220mm x 110mm) Envelope Sizes. For custom sizes, check out the C Paper Series Guide below.

GET THE BEST ENVELOPE FIT!

With the consistent aspect ratio of the ISO papers, larger paper sizes are able to fit perfectly into smaller envelopes. Fold your paper in half (you should crease parallel to the paper’s shorter sides for this) until you reach your desired size.

INKABLE TIP: The difference in the number of the page sizes must equal the number of times you should fold it. Let’s say you have a C4 envelope or filing folder. If you need to place an A2 sheet of paper, then you should fold it in half twice for a perfect fit.
How about DL envelopes? If you’re using an A4 sheet of paper, fold it in thirds. An A5 sheet of paper will also fit nicely if it is folded in half lengthwise.

TO RECAP:

So…What is the key to a successful printed piece? Think of the goals of your flyer, poster, business card, or brochure:

• CORRECT PAPER SIZE: Choosing the correct paper size enables you to layout information and photos properly, while being confident in the fact that your printed communications will be suitable for the target audience you’d want to hit. Will your audience take them home with them, or are your materials going to be designed as something that they’d just be exposed to for a measured period of time? Bite-sized, or comprehensive?  Choosing the best size is crucial in making sure text is highlighted properly, or that images can be seen from afar. Different purposes call for different sizes.

Catch the third part of our Paper 101 series next week! Learn all about the different paper finishes and how you can use them to make your next printed projects stand out and get noticed.

Hooroo for now!

Ink splat,

INKABLE

P.S. Check out All About Paper: Paper Weights and Different Paper Types, Explained. Part 1 of Inkable’s Paper 101 Series and learn more about different paper types and how to interpret paper weights.

See you next time; and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE!