Understanding Paper Sizes: What You Need to Know Before Printing or Displaying Anything
Understanding Paper Sizes: What You Need to Know Before Printing or Displaying Anything
UK Paper Size Guide (A0 – A6)
Choosing the wrong paper size might seem like a small mistake—but when your design doesn’t fit the frame or the text looks awkwardly squashed, it’s a mistake you’ll definitely notice. Whether you’re printing a high-impact poster for your storefront, a flyer for a product launch, or a menu for your café, getting your paper size right is the first step to creating a clean, professional display.
This guide will walk you through the most common UK paper sizes, show how to convert them into centimetres and millimetres, and help you decide what works best for your intended use.
The A-Series Paper Sizes Explained
The A-series is the international standard for paper sizes (ISO 216) and is used across the UK and much of the world. Each size is exactly half the size of the one before it—cut parallel to its shortest side—while maintaining the same 1:2 ratio.
Choosing the Right Paper Size for the Job
Not sure which paper size is right for your signage, posters, or promotional materials? We have broken down the common commercial uses below.
A0
A1
A2
A3
A4
A5 & A6
Why Getting Paper Size Right Matters
If you’ve ever printed a beautiful design only to find it doesn’t fit your frame or holder—or worse, needs trimming and ends up looking rushed—you’ll know how frustrating it is. Here’s what to watch out for:
A-Series Paper Size Dimensions (cm & mm)
Use this handy reference table to understand the exact physical dimensions of each A-series size in both centimetres and millimetres:
| Paper Size | Millimetres (mm) | Centimetres (cm) | Inches | Quick Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A0 | 841 x 1189 | 84.1 x 118.9 | 33.1 x 46.8 | Largest standard size. |
| A1 | 594 x 841 | 59.4 x 84.1 | 23.4 x 33.1 | Most popular for pavement signs. |
| A2 | 420 x 594 | 42.0 x 59.4 | 16.5 x 23.4 | Great for indoor signage. |
| A3 | 297 x 420 | 29.7 x 42.0 | 11.7 x 16.5 | Twice the size of A4. |
| A4 | 210 x 297 | 21.0 x 29.7 | 8.3 x 11.7 | Standard printer paper. |
| A5 | 148 x 210 | 14.8 x 21.0 | 5.8 x 8.3 | Ideal for handouts. |
| A6 | 105 x 148 | 10.5 x 14.8 | 4.1 x 5.8 | Postcard size. |
FAQs: Paper Size and Printing Made Simple
What’s the most common paper size in the UK?
What size should I use for a pavement sign?
Can I scale a design from A4 to A3 without it looking weird?
Do I need bleed and margins when designing for display?
What’s the best paper size for menus?
How do I choose between landscape and portrait?
Final Thought
Understanding paper sizing is one of those little things that makes a big difference. Before you design, print, or frame anything—pause and check the exact dimensions. You’ll save yourself time, money, and a lot of hassle. Whether you’re working with a local print shop, creating something in Canva, or briefing your marketing team, knowing your A-sizes gives you a clean, professional edge.
Explore More Buying Guides
If you're still comparing display options or need more advice, we’ve got you covered:
Explore Displaysense’s full range of snap frames, poster holders, and signage designed to fit A-series paper perfectly.
