German Series
DIN B7
Belonging to the ISO 216 standard, DIN B7 is a unique paper size that holds its own in the world of print and design. This standard, recognized internationally, ensures consistency across different countries and industries. The DIN B7 measures precisely 88mm by 125mm, a dimension that offers versatility for various applications.
Interestingly, the aspect ratio of DIN B7 remains constant even when scaled up or down. This is due to the ISO 216's ingenious 'sqrt(2)' aspect ratio principle. It means if you take two sheets of B7 paper and place them side by side, they would perfectly match up to form a single sheet of B6 size paper.
DIN B7 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 compact dimensions of DIN B7 make it an ideal choice for small-scale print projects such as tickets or labels. Its size also lends itself well to creating pocket-sized brochures or booklets that are easy for consumers to carry around.
While not as commonly used as A-series sizes in everyday printing tasks like document printing or letterheads, the DIN B7 has found its niche in specialized areas where its unique dimensions can shine. It's worth noting that this particular size does not have an equivalent in the ANSI series used predominantly in North America.
DIN B7 is more than just another paper size; it's a testament to thoughtful design principles and international standards' power. Its consistent aspect ratio and versatile dimensions make it an invaluable tool in any designer's toolkit.
Other Formats in the German Series
Interesting facts about DIN B7
1. The DIN B7 paper size is not commonly used
The DIN B7 paper size is one of the least common sizes in the DIN series. It measures 88 x 125 mm (3.46 x 4.92 inches) and is often considered too small for most printing purposes.
2. It is primarily used for specialized applications
DIN B7 paper is mainly used for specialized applications such as miniature books, pocket-sized notebooks, or small promotional materials where compactness and portability are essential.
3. It can be challenging to find pre-cut DIN B7 paper
Due to its limited popularity, finding pre-cut DIN B7 paper can be quite challenging. Many printers do not stock this size regularly, making it necessary to custom order or cut the sheets manually.
4. It belongs to the ISO 216 standard
The DIN B7 size adheres to the ISO 216 standard, which defines international paper sizes based on a ratio of square root of two (√2). This ensures that each subsequent size in the series maintains consistent proportions when halved or doubled.
5. The origin of the "DIN" designation
The term "DIN" stands for Deutsches Institut für Normung (German Institute for Standardization), which developed and standardized various technical specifications in Germany, including paper sizes like DIN B7.
6. Historical significance of DIN standards
The development of DIN standards played a crucial role in streamlining industrial processes and promoting international compatibility across different sectors during the early 20th century.
7. The relationship between different DIN sizes
DIN B7 is part of the B series, which is derived from the A series. Each B size is exactly half the area of its corresponding A size. For example, DIN B7 is half the size of DIN A7.
8. The versatility of DIN B7 for creative projects
Although not widely used, DIN B7 can be an interesting choice for artists and designers looking to create unique and compact artworks or experimental print materials.
9. Customization options for DIN B7 paper
Since pre-cut DIN B7 paper may be difficult to find, many printers offer customization services where they can cut larger sheets down to the desired size, allowing for more flexibility in printing projects.
10. The potential for cost savings with DIN B7
Due to its smaller dimensions, using DIN B7 paper can result in cost savings when compared to larger sizes since less material is required for each print job.
