ISO 216 is a definitive standard for identifying all commonly used paper sizes, especially in Europe. By doing this all EU countries (US and Canada are excluded because there is another type of system) can communicate in the same language, in terms of paper format.
According to this standard, the paper format is generated by dividing a starting sheet into several parts. Of the three series that exist (A,B,C), in the A series the starting format is the A0 sheet, which is folded and cut to create all other formats.
Of this series A, called the “Fundamental”, there are 10 subgroups: from the largest (A0), to the smallest (A10)
Then there are series B and C, called the “Complementary”.
The B-series is often heard of in the publishing world, ranging from B0 (1000 x 1414 mm) to B10 (31 x 44 mm): B5 (176 x 250 mm) is the format used for books. The B0 (1000 x 1414 mm), B1 (707 x 1000 mm) and B2 (500 x 707 mm), given their large size, can be used for printing posters and playbills.
The C series, ranging from C0 (917 x 1297 mm) to C10 (28 x 40 mm), is the “complementary” series par excellence, as it is mainly used to create letter envelopes or postal envelopes.
Let’s discover together the different formats of the best known series, the A series:
A0 format (841 x 1189 mm)
This is the largest format. It is mainly used in copy shops or graphic centers. It is used for technical drawings and requires sheets large enough to respect the proportions of the project. It can be used for billboards.
A1 format (594 x 841 mm)
This format is also used for technical drawings, posters and other advertising materials that require large formats.
A2 format (420 x 594 mm)
It can be used on many occasions: from drawing to photographic printing; from posters to large wall calendars to blackboard paper.
A3 format (297 x 420 mm)
This is one of the most common sizes. Along with A4, they are the most widely used sizes in office printers. It is used to print drawings, charts, flyers, photos, posters, sheet music, magazines and graduation papers. It can also be used for brochures by dividing it into 6 equal parts.
A4 format (210 x 297 mm)
Format of the classic printer paper, used for standard documents. It is the format of notebooks, books and encyclopedias, magazines and brochures. Brochures are an A4 sheet folded into three parts.
A5 format (148 x 210 mm)
Notebook size: smaller than an A4, convenient for taking notes and does not take up space in your backpack. Format used for printing books, magazines, brochures and flyers.
A6 format (105 x 148 mm)
Format used for postcards and cards. It is also very suitable for printing brochures, diaries and pocket books.
A7 format (74 x 105 mm)
This format can be used for making greeting cards or small pocket calendars with schedules for example.
A8 format (52 x 74 mm)
Business cards and loyalty cards from supermarkets or stores are usually of a similar format (85 x 55 mm). It can also be used for business cards, labels, stickers or greeting cards.
Pronto Pricelist allows you to generate your layout in A4 format, suitable for printing or publishing on the web.
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