INTRODUCTION
Here’s the twist most people don’t realise:
Poster sizes aren’t random they follow an international standard that makes printing, framing, and scaling predictable.
If you’re ordering posters for marketing, events, or decoration, knowing what poster size paper is called can save you money, frustration, and poor visibility.
Let’s uncover the secret your competitors already know the standard sizes behind every poster you see in shops, offices, and events.
What Is Poster Size Paper?
Poster size paper is usually referred to as A-series paper, based on the ISO 216 standard.
- A-series paper ensures that each size is half or double the area of the next size, making scaling easy.
- Common poster sizes in the UK include A1, A2, A3, and A4, each serving different purposes.
| Poster Size | Dimensions (mm) | Dimensions (inches) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | 594 × 841 | 23.4 × 33.1 | Large posters, exhibitions, trade shows |
| A2 | 420 × 594 | 16.5 × 23.4 | Medium posters, shops, events |
| A3 | 297 × 420 | 11.7 × 16.5 | Small posters, noticeboards, offices |
| A4 | 210 × 297 | 8.3 × 11.7 | Flyers, leaflets, documents |
Here’s the twist: Many people call it “poster paper” casually, but the official term is A-series size. This ensures you can communicate clearly with printers and designers.
Key Questions People Ask
1. Are all posters printed on A-series paper?
- Most UK printers use A-series, but some custom sizes exist for special frames or large-format advertising.
2. Can poster paper be different from document paper?
- Yes, poster paper is usually thicker and more durable than standard A4 office paper.
3. Which size is best for indoor posters?
- A3 for noticeboards and offices, A2 for larger visibility indoors.
4. What about outdoor posters?
- A1 or A2 are preferred because they are readable from a distance.
5. Are there non-A-series poster papers?
- Yes, some B-series or custom-sized poster papers exist for large-scale displays.
Benefits of Using Standard Poster Paper
| Benefit → Pain Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Consistency → Avoids design errors | Standard A-series sizes ensure accurate scaling for printers and frames |
| Professional look → Appears credible | ISO-standard sizes make posters look neat and professional |
| Easy framing → Saves time | Standard sizes have readily available frames |
| Flexibility → Adaptable for different needs | A design can be scaled up or down while maintaining proportions |
| Better ROI → Improves visibility | Choosing the right size increases engagement and marketing impact |
Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Assuming poster sizes are random → causes printing or framing issues
❌ Using thin paper for posters → tears easily
❌ Choosing a size too small for audience distance → unreadable
❌ Ignoring printer recommendations → cut-off margins
The #1 mistake: Calling any large paper “poster size” without confirming A-series dimensions. Using the correct standard ensures professional results.
How to Choose the Right Poster Paper Size
- Identify viewing distance – bigger size for further away
- Check the location – noticeboard, wall, window, exhibition
- Consider content amount – more text/images → larger poster
- Decide on purpose – marketing, decoration, handout
- Balance budget and impact – A1 and A2 cost more but grab more attention
Pro Tip: Many businesses combine sizes A4 for handouts, A3 for office walls, A2/A1 for large events.
Final Thoughts
So, what is poster size paper called?
✅ In the UK, the official term is A-series poster paper: A1, A2, A3, A4.
- A1: Large-scale posters
- A2: Medium posters
- A3: Small posters, noticeboards
- A4: Flyers and leaflets
Using the right paper size ensures your posters look professional, are readable, and achieve maximum marketing impact.
👉 Ready to print the perfect posters? Contact Social Media Max today for expert UK poster printing. Don’t wait your competitors won’t.