US Series
Cartridge
Cartridge paper, a staple in the world of art and design, boasts a substantial weight that lends itself to a variety of uses. This versatile medium is part of neither the ISO nor ANSI series, instead carving out its own unique niche in the paper industry.
Typically heavier than standard writing or printing paper, cartridge paper weighs in at 120-150 gsm (grams per square meter). This robust weight makes it an ideal choice for artists and designers who require a sturdy canvas for their creative endeavors. From sketching and drawing to painting and printmaking, cartridge paper provides an excellent foundation.
Cartridge 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 name 'cartridge' harks back to its historical use in making cartridges for firearms. Its durability and strength made it suitable for this purpose. Today, these same qualities make it a favorite among artists and designers.
Despite not being part of any standardized series like ISO or ANSI, cartridge paper comes in various sizes to cater to different needs. The most common sizes include A1 (594 x 841 mm), A2 (420 x 594 mm), A3 (297 x 420 mm), A4 (210 x 297 mm), and A5 (148 x 210 mm).
Cartridge paper's versatility coupled with its rich history makes it more than just another type of paper. It's an essential tool that continues to fuel creativity across various artistic disciplines.
Other Formats in the US Series
Interesting facts about Cartridge
1: Origin of Cartridge Paper
Cartridge paper, also known as drawing paper, has its origins in the 19th century. It was initially used to make cartridges for firearms, hence the name "cartridge" paper.
2: Versatility of Cartridge Paper
Cartridge paper is highly versatile and can be used for various artistic purposes such as drawing, sketching, painting, and even printmaking. Its smooth surface allows for easy application of different mediums.
3: Acid-Free Properties
Most cartridge papers are acid-free or have acid-free variants available. This makes them ideal for archival purposes as they resist yellowing and deterioration over time.
4: Weight Variations
Cartridge paper comes in a range of weights or thicknesses. The weight is measured in grams per square meter (gsm), with lighter weights around 90-120 gsm suitable for sketching and heavier weights up to 300 gsm suitable for painting and mixed media work.
5: Texture Options
Cartridge paper offers different texture options to suit artists' preferences. It can be found in smooth or hot-pressed varieties that provide a sleek surface, as well as rough or cold-pressed varieties that offer more tooth or texture.
6: Environmental Considerations
Sustainable options are available within the cartridge paper range. Some manufacturers produce cartridge papers made from recycled materials or from sustainable sources like bamboo or cotton fibers.
7: Popular Choice among Architects
In addition to its artistic applications, cartridge paper is often favored by architects due to its durability and ability to withstand technical drawing techniques such as ink and marker rendering.
8: Historical Use in Printing
Before the advent of digital printing, cartridge paper was commonly used in offset lithography. Its smooth surface allowed for high-quality reproduction of images and text.
9: Cartridge Paper in Bookbinding
Cartridge paper is also utilized in bookbinding for endpapers, which are the decorative papers glued to the inside covers of a book. Its strength and thickness make it suitable for this purpose.
10: Global Availability
Cartridge paper is widely available worldwide, making it accessible to artists, students, and professionals across different countries. It has become a staple in art supply stores due to its versatility and popularity.
