Paper: size, shape and stock

When thinking about what paper to print on   size, shape and stock   you should

consider factors such as cost, where and how the printed material will be used, how it will

be distributed, and what attracts your target market.

You may decide to choose an unusual shape but this option can be more costly to print.

There can also be other costs further down the track: e.g. If you want to mail out your

flyer or invitation, and your budget is limited, you need to make sure it will fit into a

standard envelope. 

When deciding on the size of your poster, you should think about how you want to place

it. In Wellington or Dunedin, people walk around the central business district and a

poster only needs to be an A2 for the street and for cafes. In Auckland, however, people

drive a lot and you may need a larger poster for the streets as well as a smaller poster for

indoor display.

In terms of paper stock, your printer is the expert and can show you samples. Your

designer should also be able to advise you on suitable paper. Paper weight is described in

terms of grams per square metre (gsm). Paper weight is the main factor in determining

how floppy the paper is and whether it will fold easily. For example, is it thick enough for

a postcard? If it's for a flyer, is it thin enough to fold into an envelope?

Another factor to consider is whether you want a glossy or matt finish. Remember that

posters stuck on walls need to be matt on the side that will be pasted and shouldn't be

more than 150gsm.

4

A2

Paper sizes in mm

A0

841 x 1189

A1

594 x 841

A2

420 x 594

A4

A3

297 x 420

A4

210 x 297

A6

A5

148 x 210

A6

105 x 148

A7

A5

A3

A1

A0

A7

74 x 105

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