Paper and Envelope Sizes

As we often get asked what size paper and envelopes are available, I though a list of the most common sizes would be useful.

Paper sizes

Standard paper sizes were adopted in 1959 by the British Standards Institution, based on the ISO (International Standards Organisation) sizes in use in the majority of countries. This system is based on a one square metre rectangle described as A0 (841mm x1189mm) all "A" sizes are derived from this start point. Two other size standards are included in this system B and C. "B" sizes are based on a sheet of 1000mm x 1414mm and are mainly used for maps, charts and posters. "C" sizes are based on a sheet size of 917mm x 1297mm and are used for envelopes. The "C" series of envelopes is designed to take "A" sized card and paper exactly. For example a C5 envelope for A5 paper, C6 envelope for A6 paper or A5 folded in half.

A common envelope size that remains in use today that's the exception to the above is DL. DL originates from the German DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung ) standards authority and Lang (German for long). A DL envelope will take A4 paper folded into three, also great for tall cards!

A Sizes

A0 841mm x 1189mm

A1 594mm x 841mm

A2 420mm x 594mm

A3 297mm x 420mm

A4 210mm x 297mm

A5 148mm x 210mm

A6 105mm x 148mm

Envelope Sizes

C3 488mm x 324mm

C4 324mm x 229mm

C5 229mm x 162mm

C6 162mm x 114mm

DL 220mm x 110mm

I hope this short guide has been of use, if you have any questions or comments please do get in touch, I'm happy to help if possible. Whilst the guide covers the most popular sizes in common use today there are many other sizes available for a wide variety of uses if you need help with these let me know and I will try to point you in the right direction,

Best wishes,

Pen

Visit me at The Papermill