Format
Dimensions
B series paper sizes overview
The B series paper system is part of the ISO standard and provides sizes that sit between A series formats. B sizes are commonly used for books, posters, envelopes, and specialty printing where slightly larger dimensions are required. While A series sizes are the most widely used for documents, B series formats offer additional layout flexibility without changing proportions.
How the B series system works
Recommended vs supported structure
B series sizes are calculated so that each B size sits between two corresponding A sizes. For example, B4 sits between A4 and A3 in overall dimensions.
Practical relationship to A series
Because B sizes are larger than their A equivalents, they are often used when additional space is required for margins, binding, or layout flexibility. For a detailed breakdown of A formats, see the A series paper sizes guide.
Design considerations
When switching between A and B formats, maintain proportional scaling to prevent layout distortion.
B0 paper size
Recommended vs supported sizes
B0 is designed at 11811 × 16705 pixels and is the largest standard B format.
Best practices for visibility
B0 is typically used for large posters and technical drawings. Designs should emphasize bold typography and strong visual hierarchy.
Quality and export considerations
Always export at full resolution and avoid scaling smaller files up to B0.
B1 paper size
Recommended vs supported sizes
B1 uses 8350 × 11811 pixels and is commonly used for large posters and charts.
Best practices for visibility
Ensure text remains readable from a distance and maintain adequate margins.
Quality and export considerations
Design at final size to preserve clarity.
B2 paper size
Recommended vs supported sizes
B2 measures 5906 × 8350 pixels and is often used for medium posters.
Best practices for visibility
Balance imagery and typography for mid-range viewing distances.
Quality and export considerations
Export at high quality to maintain sharp detail.
B3 paper size
Recommended vs supported sizes
B3 uses 4175 × 5906 pixels and is suitable for brochures and booklets.
Best practices for visibility
Plan layout structure carefully, especially for folded or bounded materials.
Quality and export considerations
Maintain consistent margins and avoid resizing after design completion.
B4 paper size
Recommended vs supported sizes
B4 measures 2953 × 4175 pixels and is slightly larger than A4.
Best practices for visibility
B4 works well for reports or documents requiring additional spacing.
Quality and export considerations
Design at the final print size and export at high resolution.
B5 paper size
Recommended vs supported sizes
B5 uses 2087 × 2953 pixels and is frequently used for books and manuals.
Best practices for visibility
Keep layouts structured and readable for long-form content.
Quality and export considerations
Use full-resolution exports for professional printing.
B6 to B10 paper sizes
Recommended vs supported sizes
B6 through B10 range from 1476 × 2087 pixels (B6) down to 369 × 520 pixels (B10).
Best practices for visibility
These smaller formats are commonly used for booklets, inserts, and cards. Minimal layouts and larger text improve readability.
Quality and export considerations
Avoid compressing designs heavily, as small sizes can amplify clarity issues.
Pro tips for B series formats
- Use B sizes when you need more space than A formats provide
- Keep proportional scaling when converting between A and B sizes
- Leave safe margins for trimming and binding
- Export designs at 300 DPI for print clarity
- Avoid resizing raster files repeatedly
How to design and resize B series documents using Picsart
Picsart helps you design and resize B series documents using exact pixel dimensions.
Use the Photo Editor to set a custom canvas size that matches your chosen B format before designing.
If converting from another size, the Image Resizer allows you to resize layouts proportionally without distortion.
For layout inspiration, explore flyer templates and poster templates that can be adapted to B series dimensions.
Always export at final size and highest quality to maintain print accuracy.
FAQ
What are B series paper sizes used for?
How are B series paper sizes different from A series?
B series sizes sit between A formats and provide slightly larger dimensions. Learn more in the A series paper sizes guide.
Why do B series sizes sit between A series formats?
They are mathematically calculated to provide intermediate dimensions while maintaining consistent proportions.
When should I use B series paper instead of A series?
Use B sizes when additional layout space is required for margins, binding, or design flexibility.
How do I choose the right B series size?
Select a size based on content volume, print purpose, and compatibility with existing formats.
How do I resize designs between A and B series without distortion?
Resize proportionally and maintain the original aspect ratio to avoid layout shifts.
How are B series paper sizes different from C series?
B series is used for documents and layouts, while C series is primarily used for envelopes. See the C series paper sizes guide for details.