Books Series
32mo
32mo, a term derived from the Italian 'treintaduemino', is a unique paper size that holds its own in the world of print. As part of neither the ISO nor ANSI series, it stands apart, carving its niche in the realm of book production.
Historically, 32mo refers to a book size resulting from each leaf being folded into 32 sections or leaves. This results in a page height typically ranging between 5 to 6 inches - compact and portable. The exact dimensions can vary based on the original sheet size.
32mo 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 |
The allure of this format lies in its practicality and convenience. Its small footprint makes it ideal for pocket-sized books such as dictionaries or religious texts that require portability without compromising readability.
Despite not being part of any standard series like ISO or ANSI, 32mo has managed to maintain relevance through centuries. It's an enduring testament to how user needs can shape and sustain formats outside standardized norms.
In today's digital age where e-books are gaining popularity, there's still something uniquely appealing about holding a physical book. And when that book is as compact and convenient as one printed on 32mo paper size, it adds another layer to the reading experience - one that combines tradition with practicality.
Other Formats in the Books Series
Interesting facts about 32mo
1. What is 32mo paper?
32mo paper refers to a specific size of paper that falls under the category of miniature books. It is one of the smallest sizes available and is known for its compact dimensions.
2. Dimensions of 32mo paper
The dimensions of 32mo paper vary slightly depending on the country, but it typically measures around 3 inches by 5 inches (7.6 cm by 12.7 cm). These small dimensions make it ideal for pocket-sized books.
3. Origin of "mo" in paper sizes
The term "mo" used in paper sizes like 32mo comes from the Latin word "modus," which means measure or size. It was commonly used in bookbinding to indicate different formats and sizes.
4. Historical significance
In the past, miniature books were highly valued as they were considered symbols of wealth and prestige. They were often given as gifts to royalty and nobility due to their intricate craftsmanship and portability.
5. Popular use in religious texts
Miniature Bibles, Qurans, and other religious texts are often printed on 32mo paper due to their small size, making them convenient for carrying during travels or daily devotions.
6. Challenging printing process
Due to its tiny dimensions, printing on 32mo paper can be quite challenging for printers as it requires precise alignment and attention to detail during the production process.
7. Collectible items
Miniature books printed on 32mo paper have become highly collectible items among book enthusiasts and collectors worldwide due to their unique size and historical significance.
8. Preservation challenges
Preserving 32mo books can be a challenge due to their delicate nature and small size. Special care must be taken to prevent damage from handling, light exposure, and environmental factors.
9. Modern uses
While miniature books on 32mo paper are less common in today's digital age, they still find use in niche markets such as specialty publishing, limited editions, and artistic bookbinding.
10. Unique reading experience
Reading a book printed on 32mo paper offers a unique tactile experience due to its small size. It requires focused attention and can provide a sense of intimacy with the text.
