What 'A' Size Paper do I Need for my Design Project?
Understanding the 'A Series' System
Here in the UK the
‘A series’ is the standard used when sizing paper. The system is derived from the German DIN 476 standard for paper sizes. 'A' sizes
range from A0 to A10 and are
measured in millimetres. Unlike other systems A series paper sizes divide evenly into each other by halving the largest dimension of the previous size. This is particulary useful when scaling between sizes as the elements and layout remain in proportion as they scale.
A Series Sizes, Measurements and Common Usage
A0 (841mm x 1189mm)
This is the largest size paper. Great for attention grabbing posters/artwork within large open environments such as exhibitions.
A1 (594mm x 841mm)
A standard poster size and perfect for campaigns in public spaces, shops and offices.
A2 (420mm x 594mm)
Great for posters at medium range within smaller offices, shops, cafes, restaurants. Common portfolio size.
A3 (297mm x 420mm )
Use for artwork and posters at close range. A common size for artists pads and small portfolios.
A4 (210mm x 297mm)
The most common format and UK standard letter size. Use for letterheads, brochures, menus, inserts, note pads, catalogues, forms.
A5 (148mm x 210mm)
Standard size for flyers, mini-brochures, leaflets, pamphlets/booklets, invitations, note pads.
A6 (105mm x 148mm)
Common size for postcards, notelets, invitations and small note pads.
A7 (74mm x 105mm)
A suitable size for cards, stickers, product labels and large post-it notes.
A8 (52mm x 74mm)
A practical size to use for small cards, tickets, labels.
A9 (52mm x 74mm)
A reduced area only really suitable for coupons/vouchers, stickers, tickets.
A10 (26mm x 37mm)
The smallest size and with a very limited print area. Use for stamps or small coupons.
'A' sizes range from A0 to A10 and are measured in millimetres. A4 remains the most commonly used format for printed media.
