Paper Sizing | CKN Print Ltd

CKN Paper Guide

Understanding paper is crucial for any print project, ensuring your designs fit perfectly and print accurately. Here's a comprehensive guide to the various paper commonly used in print.

SIZE

Understanding the correct paper size is crucial for your print project. Common sizes include the A series (e.g., A4 for documents, A3 for posters), B series (e.g., B0 for large posters), and C series (e.g., C4 for envelopes). Each size serves specific purposes, ensuring your materials are appropriately scaled and professional.

THICKNESS

Paper thickness, measured in grams per square meter (gsm), determines the durability and feel of your printed materials. Lightweight paper is commonly used for everyday printing tasks such as letters and internal documents due to its flexibility and cost-effectiveness, while higher gsm is reserved for business cards, postcards, and packaging, offering maximum durability and a professional appearance. Choosing the right thickness ensures that your printed materials are suitable for their intended use, whether they need to be lightweight for easy distribution or heavyweight for a premium feel.

FINISH

The finish of your paper significantly impacts the final look and feel of your printed materials. Choosing the right finish can enhance visual appeal, improve readability, and give your project a professional edge. It is essential to select a finish that aligns with the purpose and aesthetic of your print project to achieve the best results.

A Series

The A series is the most commonly used paper size for everyday printing, ranging from large posters to small flyers.

A0: 841 x 1189 mm

A1: 594 x 841 mm

A2: 420 x 594 mm

A3: 297 x 420 mm

A4: 210 x 297 mm

A5: 148 x 210 mm

A6: 105 x 148 mm

A7: 74 x 105 mm

A8: 52 x 74 mm

B Series

The B series paper sizes are defined by the ISO 216 standard and are designed to provide a wider range of sizes that complement the A series. The B series sizes are often used for special printing purposes, such as posters, books, and large-scale documents.

B0: 1000 x 1414 mm
B1: 707 x 1000 mm
B2: 500 x 707 mm
B3: 353 x 500 mm
B4: 250 x 353 mm
B5: 176 x 250 mm
B6: 125 x 176 mm
B7: 88 x 125 mm
B8: 62 x 88 mm

C Series

The C series paper sizes, also defined by ISO 216, are specifically designed for envelopes and packaging. The dimensions of the C series are calculated to fit A series paper sizes comfortably.

C0: 917 x 1297 mm
C1: 648 x 917 mm
C2: 458 x 648 mm
C3: 324 x 458 mm
C4: 229 x 324 mm
C5: 162 x 229 mm
C6: 114 x 162 mm
C7: 81 x 114 mm
C8: 57 x 81 mm

SRA Series

The SRA (Supplementary Raw Format A) series paper sizes are standardized by ISO 217 and are slightly larger than the corresponding A series sizes. The additional size allows printers to produce full-bleed prints, where the print extends to the edge of the paper, without losing any part of the design due to trimming.

SRA0: 900 x 1280 mm
SRA1: 640 x 900 mm
SRA2: 450 x 640 mm
SRA3: 320 x 450 mm
SRA4: 225 x 320 mm

THICKNESS

Lightweight Paper (80-100 gsm):

Commonly used for everyday printing, such as letters and internal documents.
Provides a lightweight, flexible option for high-volume printing.

Medium Weight Paper (120-170 gsm):

Ideal for high-quality brochures, posters, and flyers.
Offers a balance between durability and flexibility.

Heavyweight Paper (200-300 gsm):

Suitable for covers, high-end brochures, and premium flyers.
Provides a substantial feel and increased durability.

Cardstock (350 gsm and above):

Used for business cards, postcards, and packaging.
Offers maximum durability and a professional appearance.

GLOSS

Provides a shiny, reflective surface.
Enhances colors and images, making them appear more vibrant.
Ideal for photo-heavy prints like brochures and magazines.

MATTE

Offers a non-reflective, smooth finish.
Reduces glare, making it easier to read text.
Suitable for documents, books, and professional presentations.

SATIN

A middle ground between gloss and matte.
Offers a slight sheen without the high reflectivity of gloss.
Good for posters and flyers where you want some shine but need readability.

UNCOATED

No additional coating, resulting in a natural, tactile feel.
Easy to write on, making it perfect for letterheads and stationery.
Often used for business cards, notebooks, and certain brochures.