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Your Ultimate Guide to Paper Selection

Paper Sizes Guide

Understanding paper dimensions is crucial for your print projects. We support both International ISO (Metric) and North American (Imperial) standards.

North American Sizes

Commonly used in the US and Canada. Includes the standard Letter (8.5 x 11 in) for everyday use, Legal (8.5 x 14 in) for official documents, and Tabloid/Ledger (11 x 17 in).

International ISO Sizes

The ISO standard is widely used globally. It includes sizes like A4 for standard documents, printers, and letters, and A3 for folders, reports, and small posters.

Guide to Common Paper Sizes in Canada

A specific breakdown of the most frequently used standard paper sizes across Canada, detailed in both inches and centimeters for your convenience.

Main Business & Document Sizes

Standard dimensions for professional printing and office use:

Paper Sizes Guide: ISO and North American Standards
  • Letter (ANSI A): 8.5" x 11" (21.6 cm x 27.9 cm) – The standard for everyday documents.
  • Legal (Canadian Standard): 8.5" x 14" (21.6 cm x 35.6 cm) – Often used for contracts and official forms.
  • Tabloid / Ledger (ANSI B): 11" x 17" (27.9 cm x 43.2 cm) – Perfect for diagrams, newsletters, and small posters.

Small Print & Photo Sizes

Common dimensions for specific projects and photo printing:

Paper Sizes Guide: ISO and North American Standards
  • Business Card (Standard): 3.5" x 2" (8.9 cm x 5.1 cm).
  • 4" x 6" Photo / Postcard: 4" x 6" (10.2 cm x 15.2 cm).
  • 5" x 7" Photo / Invitation: 5" x 7" (12.7 cm x 17.8 cm).
  • 8" x 10" Portrait / Certificate: 8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm).

Understanding the ISO 216 Standard

The international paper size system is beautifully simple. The largest size is A0, and you can create every subsequent size (A1, A2, A3, etc.) simply by folding the previous one in half.

ISO 216 Standard: The Ultimate Guide to Paper Sizes

Paper Types & Finishes

The finish and thickness (Grammage/GSM) of your paper can completely change the look and feel of your final product.

Printing Paper Type Guide: Finishes and Weights

Uncoated Papers

Natural texture, perfect for writing and professional branding. Options include:

  • Bond/Office: Everyday absorbent paper for letterheads and forms.
  • Wove & Linen: Premium textured surfaces for stationary and invitations.
  • Card Stock: Thick and durable (e.g., 220 GSM or higher), ideal for business cards and covers.

Coated Papers

Best for vibrant, image-heavy prints. Options include:

  • Glossy: Highly reflective, makes colors pop. Great for photos and magazines.
  • Silk: A subtle sheen with a smooth feel, ideal for premium brochures.
  • Matte: Non-glare flat finish, perfect for art books and text-heavy menus.