Definition of B6, B7, B8, B9, and B10 Paper Size
The B-series paper sizes are part of the ISO 216 international standard, which defines paper dimensions based on the aspect ratio of 1:√2. The B-series was developed to provide flexibility in print sizing, allowing users to scale documents up or down without losing proportion. While the B-sizes are most commonly used in countries that follow the metric system, such as Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa, the smaller B-format sizes—like B6, B7, B8, B9, and B10—serve unique purposes in various industries, ranging from personal stationery to specialized printing tasks. Here I will offer a comprehensive overview of these lesser-known yet practical formats.
Origin and Context
The B paper size is originated from the DIN 476 standard in Germany. The B-series was developed to offer more flexibility than the A-series, particularly for large-scale and specialized printing needs. The ISO 216 standard, which is widely used globally, adopted the B-series’ aspect ratio of 1:√2, ensuring that paper sizes could be scaled while maintaining proportionality.
A piece of B size paper is slightly larger than the A size paper of same code, but is also typically used for personal and specialized printing tasks. Although it is not as widely known in countries like the United States, it is often used in countries that follow the metric system, including Japan, South Korea, and much of Europe.
Overall Layout of B Paper Sizes
Layout of B6, B7, B8, B9, and B10 Paper Size
Dimensions Table of B Paper Sizes in inches, mm, and cm
Regions of B Paper Sizes
B paper sizes, as part of ISO standard paper size, are mainly used in European countries, Asian countries, and most of African countries. In the American countries, US paper sizes are more popular.
B6 Paper Size
Dimensions
The B6 paper size measures 125 x 176 in mm, 12.5 x 17.6 in cm, and 4.92 x 6.93 in inches. It is slightly larger than the standard A6 paper size, providing a bit more space for writing or printing, but still small enough to fit comfortably in most personal organizers, diaries, and notebooks.
B6 Size in inches
4.92 x 6.93 in
B6 Size in cm
12.5 x 17.6 cm
B6 Size in mm
125 x 176 mm
Uses
The B6 paper size is versatile in several areas:
- Personal Notebooks and Diaries: The B6 format is commonly used for personal journals and planners. Its compact dimensions make it easy to carry around, but still large enough to provide space for more detailed writing than smaller formats like B7.
- Greeting Cards: Some greeting cards and invitations are printed on B6 paper because it offers a larger canvas for graphic design and text, making it ideal for printed messages and artistic designs.
- Small Booklets and Pamphlets: B6 paper is used for printing small booklets, catalogs, and pamphlets, particularly in the publishing and retail industries, where compact marketing materials are required.
US Equivalence
The B6 size does not have a direct equivalent in the US paper system. However, the closest size in the American system is the 5 x 7 inches paper size, which is commonly used for greeting cards, photographs, and other small printed items.
B7 Paper Size
Dimensions
The B7 paper size measures 88 x 125 in mm, 8.8 x 12.5 in cm, and 3.46 x 4.92 in inches. This size is small enough to be extremely portable while still allowing for basic text or imagery. It is typically used for small printed materials, including pocket-sized publications and personal stationery.
B7 Size in inches
3.46 x 4.92 in
B7 Size in cm
8.8 x 12.5 cm
B7 Size in mm
88 x 125 mm
Uses
- Pocket-sized Notebooks: B7 paper is ideal for creating ultra-portable notebooks, planners, or diaries. It is a convenient size for personal note-taking and journaling while being small enough to carry in a purse or pocket.
- Cards and Invitations: Some types of greeting cards, invitations, and thank-you notes are printed on B7 paper. It’s a perfect size for invitations to events like weddings or parties, where concise text and minimal design are sufficient.
- Promotional Materials: Businesses use B7 paper for creating small promotional flyers or handouts, such as discount coupons or limited-time offers, where concise messaging is the priority.
US Equivalence
In the US, the B7 size does not have an exact match, but the 3.5 x 5 inches paper size is often used for similar applications. 3.5 x 5 inches is commonly used for photos, small invitations, and greeting cards, making it a close equivalent for B7.
B8 Paper Size
Dimensions
The B8 paper size measures 62 x 88 in mm, 6.2 x 8.8 in cm, and 2.44 x 3.46 in inches. This size is quite small, almost postcard-sized, and is typically used for highly compact materials where minimal space is required.
B8 Size in inches
2.44 x 3.46 in
B8 Size in cm
6.2 x 8.8 cm
B8 Size in mm
62 x 88 mm
Uses
- Miniature Flyers: The B8 size is used for creating mini flyers or leaflets, often for highly targeted advertising. Its compact nature makes it ideal for distribution in high-traffic areas.
- Small Booklets and Pamphlets: B8 paper is sometimes used for printing small booklets, especially in retail or promotional contexts, where the goal is to create an ultra-compact format for quick reading or reference.
- Receipts and Coupons: B8 paper is often used for printing receipts, coupons, and tickets, where space is limited and concise information is key.
US Equivalence
In the United States, the B8 size does not have a direct counterpart, but 2.5 x 3.5 inches is a common alternative used for trading cards, business cards, and mini promotional materials. While the dimensions are slightly different, it serves similar purposes in terms of compactness and portability.
B9 Paper Size
Dimensions
The B9 paper size measures 44 x 62 in mm, 4.4 x 6.2 in cm, and 1.73 x 2.44 in inches. It is one of the smallest paper sizes in the ISO standard, making it suitable for very compact printed materials.
B9 Size in inches
1.73 x 2.44 in
B9 Size in cm
4.4 x 6.2 cm
B9 Size in mm
44 x 62 mm
Uses
- Business Cards: While business cards are often printed on A7 paper, the B9 size can also be used for making ultra-miniature cards or tickets, often used for specific events or in personalized gift cards.
- Tags and Labels: The B9 size is useful for printing small tags, labels, or name tags, especially when minimal space is available for text.
- Compact Invitations: B9 paper is occasionally used for creating highly compact invitations for personal events or very exclusive gatherings.
US Equivalence
In the US, B9 paper is closely related to the 1.75 x 2.5 inches size, which is commonly used for business cards, miniature tags, and small promotional materials. Although slightly different in size, 1.75 x 2.5 inches is commonly used for similar purposes.
B10 Paper Size
Dimensions
The B10 paper size measures 31 x 44 in mm, 3.1 x 4.4 in cm, and 1.22 x 1.73 in inches. It is extremely small, typically used for extremely compact print jobs that require only a few words or numbers.
B10 Size in inches
1.22 x 1.73 in
B10 Size in cm
3.1 x 4.4 cm
B10 Size in mm
31 x 44 mm
Uses
- Tiny Business Cards: The B10 size is sometimes used for ultra-compact business cards or miniature name tags, often for highly exclusive events or as novelty items.
- Micro Labels and Tags: This size is often used for making tiny labels, product tags, or collector cards, where very little information needs to be printed in an extremely small area.
- Unique Invitations: On occasion, B10 paper can be used for printing invitations or notices for special events, where the size is more about novelty than function.
US Equivalence
In the US, the B10 size has no exact counterpart, but 1 x 1.5 inches or similar very small paper sizes are sometimes used for miniature printing projects such as novelty business cards or tiny promotional items.
Facts
The B6, B7, B8, B9, and B10 paper sizes represent some of the smallest formats in the B-series, and they serve specialized purposes across various industries. While they are more commonly used in countries following the metric system, their equivalents in the US system tend to be slightly different in dimensions but serve similar roles. These sizes are essential for everything from mini flyers and business cards to tiny labels and tags. Although not as widely recognized in the United States, the B-series sizes continue to play an important role in international printing standards.