Blueprint Printing Paper Size Guide

Your complete reference for blueprint paper sizes, construction drawing paper types, and architectural plan printing. Find the right paper size and stock for your AEC projects.

Blueprint Printing Paper Size Guide - professional printing services

Construction Blueprint Sizes Explained

Choosing the correct blueprint paper size is essential for architects, engineers, contractors, and design professionals. Whether you're printing construction drawings, architectural plans, or engineering blueprints, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about paper sizes, paper types, and finishing options for professional printing. The tables below reflect the exact paper options available through our printing service, and will receive updates when new types and sizes are available.

Construction Blueprint Sizes Explained - PrintMyDrawings

Blueprint Printing Paper Size Guide

Blueprint sizes follow industry standards established by ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and ARCH (Architectural) sizing conventions. The table below shows all available paper sizes for printing your construction documents, architectural drawings, and engineering blueprints.

Available Blueprint Sizes

All paper sizes currently available for blueprint and large format printing. Dimensions shown in both inches and square footage for easy reference.

The most commonly used blueprint sizes for construction are ARCH D (24" x 36") and ARCH E (36" x 48"). ARCH D is the standard size required by most building departments for permit submittals, while ARCH E accommodates larger commercial projects and detailed site plans. For field use, ANSI B (11" x 17") half-size prints are popular because they're portable and fit easily in a vehicle or toolbox.

Size Selection Guide by Project Type

  • Residential Projects

    ARCH C (18x24) or ARCH D (24x36) - Ideal for floor plans, elevations, and detail sheets for homes and small buildings

  • Commercial Projects

    ARCH D (24x36) or ARCH E (36x48) - Accommodates complex systems and larger floor plates typical of commercial buildings

  • Site & Civil Plans

    ARCH E (36x48) or larger custom sizes - Required for site plans, grading plans, and utility layouts at readable scales

  • Field Reference Sets

    ANSI B (11x17) half-size - Portable, fits in standard trucks, readable at 50% reduction of full-size drawings

  • Permit Submittals

    ARCH D (24x36) - Most commonly required size by building departments; check local requirements

  • International Projects

    ISO A1 (594x841mm) - Standard for international collaborations and overseas project documentation

The paper stock you choose affects durability, print quality, and intended use. Bond paper is the industry standard for construction blueprints, while coated papers are preferred for presentations. The table below shows all available paper types with their weights and typical applications.

Available Paper Types

Paper stocks currently available for blueprint printing. Paper weight is measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (GSM).

Paper Selection by Use Case

  • Field & Job Site Use

    20lb Bond or Tyvek - Water-resistant, durable, handles rough handling and outdoor conditions

  • Client Presentations

    24-32lb Coated Paper - Professional appearance, vivid colors, smooth finish for impressive presentations

  • Review & Markup Copies

    20lb Bond - Cost-effective, accepts pencil/pen markups, easy to recycle after use

  • Archival & Record Sets

    Vellum or Mylar - Long-term durability, fade-resistant, meets archival standards

  • Bid Documents & Submittals

    24lb Bond - Professional quality, durable enough for multiple reviews, standard for specifications

  • Large Format Posters

    Photo Satin or Gloss - High color accuracy, professional finish for marketing displays

Choose between black & white or full color printing based on your project requirements. Black & white is standard for construction documents and permits, while color printing is essential for presentations, renderings, and drawings with color-coded information.

Available Color Options

Color modes available for your prints. Black & white is recommended for permit sets and field copies, while color is ideal for presentations and renderings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blueprint Sizes

Common questions about blueprint paper sizes, printing, and specifications

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