Overview
EN ISO 216:2007 (ISO 216:2007) defines the system of trimmed sizes for writing paper and certain printed matter. It standardises the metric A series (main series) and B series (subsidiary) paper sizes, the underlying geometric principles (halving and similarity), and the method for indicating the machine direction (MD) of trimmed sheets. The standard applies to administrative, commercial and technical paper uses (forms, catalogues, stationery) but does not necessarily cover newspapers, published books, posters or other special items.
Key topics and requirements
- Geometric principles
- Sizes are derived by halving the preceding format parallel to the shorter side (areas of successive sizes are 2:1).
- Aspect ratio is constant (proportionality y:x ≈ 1.414, i.e., √2), so sheets are geometrically similar.
- Main (A) and subsidiary (B) series
- Common A sizes: A0 (841 × 1 189 mm) down to A10 (26 × 37 mm). Most used: A4 (210 × 297 mm).
- B series provides intermediate sizes (e.g., B0 1 000 × 1 414 mm, B5 176 × 250 mm).
- Trimmed long sizes
- Special sizes produced by dividing an A-size into 3, 4 or 8 parts (examples: 1/3 A4 = 99 × 210 mm, 1/4 A4 = 74 × 210 mm).
- Indication of machine direction
- Sheet dimensions must be given in millimetres as “width × height” with the second dimension parallel to the machine direction.
- Optional notations: LG (long-grain - longest side parallel to MD) and SG (short-grain - shortest side parallel to MD). Example: 297 mm × 210 mm SG or A2 SG.
- Tolerances and measurement
- Dimensional tolerances (unless otherwise agreed): ≤150 mm ±1.5 mm; >150 to ≤600 mm ±2 mm; >600 mm ±3 mm.
- Measurements must follow the standard atmosphere per ISO 187.
Applications and users
- Practical for: paper manufacturers, commercial printers, prepress and graphic designers, office supplies procurement, and document formatting for administrative/technical uses.
- Typical uses: correspondence sheets, forms, catalogues, diagrams, posters folded from larger sizes, labels, tickets, postcards.
- Ensures compatibility across production, print finishing and filing systems and supports international trade in paper and printed matter.
Related standards
- Normative reference: ISO 187 (standard atmosphere for conditioning and testing).
- For different regional cut sizes (e.g., North American formats), consult national standards or the bibliography referenced in ISO 216.
Keywords: ISO 216, EN ISO 216:2007, paper sizes, A series, B series, trimmed sizes, machine direction, LG, SG, tolerances.
