UK Paper Size Guide

There is a huge selection when it comes to paper sizes in the UK, which can sometimes make it confusing ordering the size you need. Paper sizes in the UK are based on the International A standard and cover A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, and A8, each designed to fit a range of different purposes. This article will talk you through the specific dimensions in centimetres and inches and look at some common uses for each size.

International A Sizes

A0 Paper Size

A0 is the biggest size in the international A standard and is commonly used for technical drawings or posters. If you’re looking to print in A0, because of its size you need to make sure you have the correct resolution settings and a high-quality camera. The specific dimensions are below:

A0 Paper Size in CM: 84.1 x 1189

A0 Paper Size in Inches: 33.1 x 46.8

A1 Paper Size

A1 is typically used for large technical drawings, flipcharts for meetings and posters. Similar to A0, you’ll also need the correct resolution and a 20-megapixel camera to print high-quality images.

A1 Paper Size in CM: 59.4 x 84.1

A1 Paper Size in Inches: 23.4 x 33.1

 A2 Paper Size

A2 is used for medium-sized posters, architectural drawings and diagrams. For printing the likes of posters, it’s recommended you use a 16-megapixel camera.

A2 Paper Size in CM: 42 x 59.4

A2 Paper Size in Inches: 16.5 x 23.4

A3 Paper Size

A3 paper is used for drawings, diagrams and large tables. A3 and A4 are the paper sizes used most in the UK, with A3 often being used for double-page spreads of A4.

A4 Paper Size

A4 is the standard page size in English speaking countries and is the most common size used globally. It’s used for printing, letters, magazines, catalogues, and forms.

A4 Paper Size in CM: 21 x 29.7

A4 Paper Size in Inches: 8.3 x 11.7

A5 Paper Size

A5 is used to create small booklets, leaflets, notebooks and flyers. It’s also another international A standard size that is used regularly in the UK.

A5 Paper Size in CM: 14.8 x 21

A5 Paper Size in Inches: 5.8 x 8.3

A6 Paper Size

A6 is typically used for small brochures, greeting cards, programs and flyers. Its wider uses include pocketbooks, library microfiches and toilet paper.

A6 Paper Size in CM: 10.5 x 14.8

A6 Paper Size in Inches: 4.1 x 5.8

A7 Paper Size

A7 is too small for written text and is only used in professional printing or manufacturing large post-it notes. Eight A7 sheets of paper fit into one A4 piece, so A7 is often used to make up larger images.

A7 Paper Size in CM: 7.4 x 10.5

A7 Paper Size in Inches: 2.9 x 4.1

A8 Paper Size

A8 is used regularly for business cards, bank cards and driving licenses. Often required to be printed in bulk, you can fit 18 A8-sized images on an A4 piece of paper.

A8 Paper Size in CM: 5.2 x 7.4

A8 Paper Size in Inches: 2.0 x 2.9

What is GSM?

When ordering paper, understanding all the terminology will help you order correctly. GSM means ‘grams per square metre’ and is how paper is weighted. The higher the number, the heavier the sheet.

What is Whiteness?

The whiteness of the sheet is also measured if you have a specific shade in mind. It is measured in CIE, and the higher the number, the whiter the sheet.

This guide should help you order the right paper for your specific requirements, be it for work or personal use. Understanding common uses for paper sizes will mean you can keep your office or home office stocked if you regularly need to print the likes of business cards, letters or forms.