B Series
B12
Belonging to the ISO 216 standard, B12 is a unique paper size that holds its own significance in the world of print and design. This particular size, measuring a mere 31 x 44 millimeters, is the smallest in the B series of ISO paper sizes.
The B series, including B12, was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to address sizes not covered by the A series. The dimensions of each subsequent size in the B series are derived from geometric means between corresponding A series sizes. This ensures a logical and consistent progression of dimensions.
B12 paper dimensions
Specs
| Format | in | mm | cm | pt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2A0 | 46.81 x 66.22 | 1189 x 1682 | 119 x 168 | 3370 x 4768 |
| A12 | 0.51 x 0.71 | 13 x 18 | 1 x 2 | 37 x 51 |
| 4A0 | 66.22 x 93.62 | 1682 x 2378 | 168 x 238 | 4768 x 6741 |
| A11 | 0.71 x 1.02 | 18 x 26 | 2 x 3 | 51 x 74 |
| A10 | 1.02 x 1.46 | 26 x 37 | 3 x 4 | 74 x 105 |
| A3+ | 12.95 x 19.02 | 329 x 483 | 33 x 48 | 933 x 1369 |
| A1+ | 23.98 x 35.98 | 609 x 914 | 61 x 91 | 1726 x 2591 |
| A0+ | 35.98 x 50.87 | 914 x 1292 | 91 x 129 | 2591 x 3662 |
| A6 | 4.13 x 5.83 | 105 x 148 | 11 x 15 | 298 x 420 |
| A5 | 5.83 x 8.27 | 148 x 210 | 15 x 21 | 420 x 595 |
| A4 | 8.27 x 11.69 | 210 x 297 | 21 x 30 | 595 x 842 |
| A3 | 11.69 x 16.54 | 297 x 420 | 30 x 42 | 842 x 1191 |
| A9 | 1.46 x 2.05 | 37 x 52 | 4 x 5 | 105 x 147 |
| A2 | 16.54 x 23.39 | 420 x 594 | 42 x 59 | 1191 x 1684 |
| A8 | 2.05 x 2.91 | 52 x 74 | 5 x 7 | 147 x 210 |
| A1 | 23.39 x 33.11 | 594 x 841 | 59 x 84 | 1684 x 2384 |
| A7 | 2.91 x 4.13 | 74 x 105 | 7 x 11 | 210 x 298 |
| A0 | 33.11 x 46.81 | 841 x 1189 | 84 x 119 | 2384 x 3370 |
Despite its diminutive stature, B12 plays an essential role in specific applications where compactness is paramount. It's often used for printing small labels or tiny brochures where space efficiency is crucial.
Interestingly enough, while it may seem obscure to some regions like North America that predominantly use ANSI standards for paper sizing, B12 and other ISO sizes are widely recognized and utilized across Europe and many parts of Asia.
While it may be small in size, B12's unique characteristics make it an integral part of the global standardization system for paper sizes established by ISO. Its existence underscores how every detail matters when it comes to creating efficient systems - even down to something as seemingly simple as paper sizing.
Other Formats in the B Series
Interesting facts about B12
1: B12 paper is not a standard paper size
B12 paper is not part of the ISO 216 international paper size standard. It is an uncommon and non-standard size that measures approximately 353 mm x 500 mm.
2: B12 paper was historically used for architectural drawings
In the past, B12 paper was commonly used by architects for creating detailed architectural drawings. Its larger dimensions allowed for more intricate designs to be accurately represented on a single sheet.
3: B12 paper can be difficult to find
Due to its non-standard size, finding B12 paper can be challenging. It may not be readily available in most stationery or office supply stores, requiring special orders or sourcing from specialty suppliers.
4: B12 paper can be cut down from larger sizes
If you need B12-sized sheets and cannot find them, it is possible to cut down larger sheets of paper to the desired dimensions. However, this may result in some waste and uneven edges.
5: The aspect ratio of B12 paper is approximately √2
The aspect ratio (width-to-height ratio) of B12 paper is approximately equal to the square root of two (√2). This aspect ratio allows for easy scaling and resizing when working with different sizes within the same series.
6: The origin of the "B" series in ISO 216 standard
The "B" series in the ISO 216 standard was introduced by Walter Portsmann, a German engineer, in the early twentieth century. He aimed to create a series that would provide a wider range of sizes suitable for various applications.
7: B12 paper is part of the B series
B12 paper belongs to the B series of paper sizes, which includes other sizes like B0, B1, B2, and so on. The dimensions of each size in the series are determined by halving the longer side of the previous size.
8: The ISO 216 standard promotes efficiency
The ISO 216 standard was developed to promote efficiency in printing and paper usage. By using a consistent aspect ratio and halving method, it allows for easy scaling between sizes without excessive waste or distortion.
9: The A series is more commonly used than the B series
While both A and B series are part of the ISO 216 standard, the A series (A0, A1, A2, etc.) is more widely used globally. The A series is commonly used for office documents, printing purposes, and everyday stationery needs.
10: Different countries may have their own unique paper sizes
In addition to international standards like ISO 216, different countries may have their own traditional or unique paper sizes. These local standards can vary significantly from one country to another.
