Why an A3 sheet will not fit a tabloid folder
A3 and US tabloid look close, but the shapes differ. A3 is 297 x 420 mm (11.69 x 16.54 in), while tabloid is 279 x 432 mm (11 x 17 in). The A3 sheet is wider by almost 20 mm, so it binds against the sides of an 11x17 folder.
An A3 folder solves that with a closed size near 310 x 430 mm, or 12.2 x 16.93 inches. The extra width gives the sheet a clean margin, and the height suits the shorter A3 page. Open flat, the folder spans about 620 x 430 mm.
A3 folder sizes and build
| Spec | Metric | Inches |
|---|---|---|
| A3 sheet | 297 x 420 mm | 11.69 x 16.54 |
| Closed, portrait | About 310 x 430 mm | 12.2 x 16.93 |
| Closed, landscape | About 430 x 310 mm | 16.93 x 12.2 |
| Open flat | About 620 x 430 mm | 24.4 x 16.93 |
| Pocket height | About 120 mm | 4.7 |
| Spine | Flat or 10 mm | 0.4 |
| Stock | 16 pt or 18 pt board | Rigid wrapped board by quote |
| Finishes | Matte or soft-touch lamination | Foil, spot UV, debossing |
A3 presentation folder landscape layouts
Large boards often read sideways: floor plans, mood boards, site maps and product line sheets. A landscape A3 folder puts the spine on the long top edge, so the cover opens upward like a sketchbook. Your client sees each board the right way round.
Portrait layout is better for posters, menus and tall drawings. We build both from the same stock and finish range. Tell us which way your boards face and we will draw the die-line to match.
Planning an A3 folder run
- Measure one board or print and note whether it reads portrait or landscape.
- Count how many boards go in one folder to decide on a spine.
- Pick 18 pt board, or ask about a rigid wrapped build for heavy sets.
- Design on our metric A3 die-line with 3 mm bleed.
- Approve the proof, ideally after printing it at full size on your office plotter.
Who presents on A3
Architects and interior designers show plans and finishes boards on A3 abroad. Art and design students carry A3 portfolios to reviews and interviews. Ad agencies use an A3 display folder to pitch campaigns with full-size layouts.
US exhibitors at overseas trade fairs bring A3 price sheets and spec boards. Galleries hand out A3 prints in a branded folder at sales. Our 11x17 oversized folders for US sheets cover the domestic version of the same job.
Pocket depth, board weight and capacity
An A3 pocket folder needs tall pockets so heavy sheets stay put. We set them near 120 mm, with glued edges that resist splitting. A 10 mm spine or a capacity pocket holds a stack of mounted boards.
We suggest 18 pt board for most A3 jobs, because thinner stock sags at this span. A rigid board build with wrapped paper is the step up for heavy portfolios. Our rigid board folders for heavy portfolios explain that option in detail.
Uses for an A3 display folder
- Architecture and interior design client reviews
- Art school portfolio submissions
- Campaign pitches with full-size ad layouts
- Trade fair price sheets and spec boards abroad
- Gallery print sales and limited editions
- Restaurant menu proofs and signage drafts
A3 Presentation Folders: questions we get
What size is an A3 presentation folder?
Ours close at about 310 x 430 mm, which is 12.2 x 16.93 inches. That holds a 297 x 420 mm A3 sheet flat with a margin around it.
Will A3 fit in an 11x17 folder?
Usually not. A3 is almost 20 mm wider than tabloid, so it scrapes or bends at the sides. A true A3 folder is the safer choice.
Can I get an A3 folder in landscape?
Yes. We put the spine on the long edge so the folder opens upward. This suits plans, mood boards and wide layouts.
Which stock keeps an A3 folder from sagging?
18 pt board holds its shape across the large panel. For heavy mounted boards, a rigid wrapped board is stronger. Compare weights in our paper stocks and finishes guide.
Can I add my logo in foil on an A3 cover?
Yes. The big cover takes a large foil or debossed logo well. Gold, silver, rose gold and holographic foils are all available.
How do I ship A3 folders to a client overseas?
Most clients ship them flat in a rigid mailer slightly larger than 310 x 430 mm. We deliver the folders to your US address, and you send them on from there. Add a board backer if the folder travels with only a few loose sheets inside.