Understanding A Sizes in Artwork (and What on Earth is B0?)

📐 The A Series: The Most Common Art and Paper Sizes

The A series (A0, A1, A2, A3, A4, etc.) is the international standard for paper and print sizes, known formally as ISO 216. It’s designed around a simple but clever rule:

• Each size is exactly half of the size above it, when you cut it parallel to its shorter side.

• All A sizes share the same aspect ratio: 1:√2 (about 1:1.414). Just to confuse you!

Here’s what that means in real numbers (approximate cm sizes):

if you take an A0 sheet and fold it in half, you get A1; fold it again, you get A2—and so on.
This system makes it easy to scale designs up or down without changing proportions.

In the art world, A0 gives that wow factor. A real statement piece that sparks conversatations. 

          A1  is a standard intermediate size.

          A2  a smaller size are popular for gifts.

           A3 is great for smaller spaces or for grouping together as part of a gallery wall.

🧩 What About B Sizes – and Specifically B0?

Alongside the A series, there’s also a B series. This set fills in the gaps between the A sizes, and it’s mainly used for special print projects, books, posters and larger artworks.

The B series is slightly larger than the corresponding A sizes.
And at the top of this series is B0.

• B0 dimensions:

  • 1000 × 1414 mm

  • 100 × 141.4 cm

That’s huge! B0 prints are often used for dramatic, oversized artwork, display posters or large photographic prints.
It keeps the same 1:√2 aspect ratio, so it looks harmonious next to A sizes, but it’s designed for when you want serious visual impact.

🖼️ What does a 60 × 40 inch print mean in the art world?

A 60 × 40 inch print (about 152 × 102 cm) is considered an oversized, statement piece—the kind that’s made to be the star of a room.

• Impact: At this size, artwork has a dramatic presence, instantly becoming the focal point of large living rooms, entryways, offices or gallery spaces.

• Use: It’s perfect for panoramic landscapes, striking portraits or bold abstract pieces where detail and scale really matter.

• Considerations: Because of its size, it usually requires professional framing and ample wall space; it can also weigh quite a bit once framed.

In the art world, prints this large are often chosen for luxury interiors, corporate spaces or high-impact exhibitions—anywhere you want to stop people in their tracks.

🖼️ Quick Tips When Choosing an Art Print Size

• Measure your wall space first and think about how much room you want around the artwork.

• Mix sizes for a gallery wall: combining  A3 and A2 can add visual interest.

• For statement pieces, A0 or B0 sizes will really transform a room.

✏️ In summary:

• The A series (A0–A4 and beyond) is the standard you’ll see most often.

• Each size is half the size of the one above, keeping the same proportions.

• B0 is part of the B series, even bigger than A0, perfect when you want your artwork to really stand out.

Next time you see “A2 print” or “B0 poster,” you’ll know exactly what that means—and you’ll be able to choose the perfect size for your space with confidence.