Greeting cards are a convenient way customers choose to wish well on special occasions like birthdays and New Year. Whether you have a stationery business card or are a digital artwork creator, finding the exact size of the card is important. Companies can improve their branding and customer appreciation with the help of correct measurements.
This is why it is important to select the right measurements for the card so it has a professional look and fits the right envelope. This guide covers the standard greeting card dimensions used in the US, broken down by occasion. You will also learn about different size charts and formats that will help you select the right one according to your needs.
Why Card Dimensions Matter for Design & Printing
The correct dimensions depend on the occasion and how much content you need to fit. A small card is good for a thank-you message to send in a professional setting. Large birthday cards work best when given to loved ones. Companies need to focus on the correct size according to their target customers. The first step for this is to learn how length, width, and height are measured and which dimensions are available.
Choosing the accurate and standard custom card sizes also helps businesses in making the printing and ordering process easier. Here are a few reasons why learning about the correct size is important:
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You can design a better layout with space for pictures and text.
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The correct size helps to design a card according to the occasion.
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You can easily find the matching envelope for the card.
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Printing companies can plan the design as quickly as possible.
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It leaves a better impression on the customers when the card is the correct size.
What Are the Standard Greeting Card Dimensions?
One of the most common dimensions is 5" × 7" when the card is folded, known in the card industry as an A7. You get enough space for the text and photos of this type. But this is not a one-size-fits-all thing. A smaller, budget-friendly alternative is the A2 size at 4.25" × 5.5", commonly used for corporate thank-you notes and simple greetings. Moreover, you can choose and customize the size according to your requirements.
Greeting Card Size Chart (Inches, CM, and MM)
The units for measurement are inches, millimeters, and centimeters. Inches are one of the most commonly used units when you order a card in the United States. Mentioned next are some of the common sizes in different units:
| Paper & Card Dimensions Guide | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Format | Inches | Centimeters | Millimeters |
| ISO Paper Dimensions (International Standard) | |||
| A4 | 8.27" × 11.69" | 21 × 29.7 cm | 210 × 297 mm |
| A5 | 5.83" × 8.27" | 14.8 × 21 cm | 148 × 210 mm |
| A6 | 4.13" × 5.83" | 10.5 × 14.8 cm | 105 × 148 mm |
| A7 | 2.91" × 4.13" | 7.4 × 10.5 cm | 74 × 105 mm |
| US Card-Industry Dimensions (Used for Greeting Cards & Invitations) | |||
| A2 | 4.25" × 5.5" | 10.8 × 13.97 cm | Card: 108 × 140 mm Envelope: 111 × 146 mm |
| A6 | 4.5" × 6.25" | 11.43 × 15.88 cm | Card: 114 × 159 mm Envelope: 121 × 165 mm |
| A7 | 5" × 7" | 12.7 × 17.78 cm | Card: 127 × 178 mm Envelope: 133 × 184 mm |
| A9 | 5.5" × 8.5" | 13.97 × 21.59 cm | Card: 140 × 216 mm Envelope: 146 × 222 mm |
| Square Formats | |||
| Small Square | 3.94" × 3.94" | 10 × 10 cm | 100 × 100 mm |
| Large Square | 5.91" × 5.91" | 15 × 15 cm | 150 × 150 mm |
| DL Format (Envelope & Document Size) | |||
| DL | 3.94" x 8.27" | 9.9 x 21 cm | 99 x 210 mm |
Card Dimensions by Occasion & Format
Almost all the customers choose the card size according to the occasion and the amount of content they want to add. Different sizes of these notecards serve different purposes. Here are the dimension charts for the cards according to the relevant occasion:
Standard Birthday Card Size
Many customers choose a birthday card in a large size when they are giving it to their loved ones. Similarly, a smaller card is chosen for corporate purposes or to give to someone who is not very close to you. Here are some of the different measurements you get for birthday cards:
| Format | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| A7 | 5" x 7" |
| A6 | 4.5" x 6.25" |
| A2 | 4.25" x 5.5" |
| Square | 6" x 6" |
Standard Holiday Card Size
The notecards are made of materials like cardstock and are used during Christmas and New Year's. Other occasions like Thanksgiving and Easter are also covered as holidays. Customers buy these cards to wish their dear ones. Here are some of the widely bought holiday card sizes:
| Format | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| A7 | 5" x 7" |
| A2 | 4.25" x 5.5" |
| Square | 5" x 5" |
Thank You & Corporate Notes
These cards are smaller than the others because they have a short message written on them. They have emotions like thanking someone or being grateful. Businesses also use them to thank a customer after a purchase. You can also include a gift or a promotional package with the note. However, you need to find the exact size that best suits your needs. Here are some of the sizes in which these cards are available:
| Format | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| A2 | 4.25" x 5.5" |
| A6 | 4.5" x 6.25" |
| A7 | 5" x 7" |
| Flat | 4" x 6" |
General Note Cards & Inserts
They are used for different reasons, like an announcement or a business communication. You can select the size as per the amount of text and visuals you want to add to the card. Many businesses choose small cards as product inserts in the packaging. Larger cards are given to premium customers for a subscription or any other reason. Provided below are some of the note card sizes used for different purposes:
| Dimensions | Used For |
|---|---|
| 3" x 5" | The size is good for studying notes. |
| A2 (4.25" x 5.5") | You can use this size for small invites and thank-you notes. |
| 4" x 6" | Event announcements are done using this size card. |
| A6 (4.625" x 6.25") | The size is perfect for event invitations and holiday cards. |
| A7 (5.125" x 7") | Wedding invitations and normal correspondence are done on this size card. |
Matching Envelope Sizes & Measurement Chart
It is necessary to know that the envelope should be a little larger than the card so that it fits inside without any damage. The order process is made easier by matching the card with the envelope size. Be it a custom congratulations card or a get-well-soon card, choosing the right envelope size is important. Mentioned next are some of the greeting card envelope sizes you can consider:
| Card Format | Card Dimensions (Folded/Flat) | Matching Envelope Format | Envelope Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| A2 | 4.25" x 5.5" | A2 Envelope | 4 3/8" x 5 3/4" (4.375" × 5.75") |
| A6 | 4.5" x 6.25" | A6 Envelope | 4 3/4" x 6 1/2" (4.75" × 6.5") |
| A7 | 5" x 7" | A7 Envelope | 5 1/4" x 7 1/4" (5.25" × 7.25") |
| A9 | 5.5" x 8.5" | A9 Envelope | 5 3/4" x 8 3/4" (5.75" × 8.75") |
Folded vs. Flat Card Dimensions
The cards are available mostly in flat or folded formats. The right option for the dimension depends on how the customers plan to use the card.
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A folded card has creases that allow it to open in more than one fold. They are used for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.
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The flat cards have no fold and have prints on one or both sides. Customers use them for announcements and simple business messages.
You can learn about the dimensions for both card types in the table below:
| Card Type | Size | Finished Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat Postcard | 5.5" x 4.25" | 5.5" x 4.25" | Simple greetings can be written on them. |
| Folded Card | 10" x 7" | 5" x 7" | Wedding cards and formal invitations are sent in this size. |
| Flat Square Card | 6" x 6" | 6" x 6" | You can use this size for photo cards and branded notes. |
| Flat Half Letter | 5.5" x 8.5" | 5.5" x 8.5" | The size is good for graduation cards and corporate invitations. |
| Folded Letter Size | 11" x 8.5" | 5.5" x 8.5" | This size is good for large holiday cards and keepsakes. |
Digital Design Specifications (Pixels & DPI) For Greeting Cards
You need to measure the sizes in pixels when you are designing the cards in digital format. The correct pixel size depends on the purpose for which you are using the design. You should also consider the dots per inch (DPI) for a clear design after printing. Here are some of the common pixel sizes for digital designs:
| Format | Pixels at 300 DPI |
|---|---|
| A2 | 1275 x 1650 pixels |
| A7 | 1500 x 2100 pixels |
How to Pick the Right Card Dimensions: 6 Quick Steps
One should always pick the card size according to the purpose for which they are used and manufactured. Different cards serve different purposes. However, the following tips will help you choose the correct dimension:
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You must first choose the purpose or occasion for which you are making the card.
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Think about what sort of design you want on the card, including the photos and other content.
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Consider the cost of printing and packaging the card while making a budget.
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You must also consider factors like paper weight and thickness when evaluating the size or making the budget.
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Always order a sample before placing the bulk order.
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You should make sure that the envelopes are easily accessible and fit the chosen dimensions.
Get Customized Greeting Cards in the Correct Size
The task of getting the correct dimensions becomes easier with the help of a printer that can give you options in various dimensions. With My Box Printing, you can avail yourself of the service of custom printing of greeting cards in a variety of sizes with different types of material, finishes, and formats, even cards that are used for packaging. Check out our birthday cards, holiday cards, and custom envelopes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Greeting Card Dimensions
What is the most common greeting card size?
The most common dimensions used in the US are A7 (5 x 7 inches). Another common smaller size is A2 (4.25 x 5.5 inches).
Should you choose the card or envelope size first?
It is better to select the measurements of both at the same time. This will help you make sure that the card fits perfectly inside the envelope.
Which card dimensions are best for corporate use?
Notecards that have measurements of 4.25" x 5.5" (A2) or 5" x 7" (A7) are best given in a corporate setting. Many businesses get cards manufactured in this size.
Can greeting cards be made in custom dimensions?
Standard dimensions cover most use cases, but custom sizes are available when you need something outside the A2-A9 range. My Box Printing can produce cards to your exact specifications.
Do the card dimensions affect what I can print on it?
Yes. You must get the cards made in a size that holds enough space for your content. Get an idea of how many visuals and text you will be adding to the card, and then start the measurements.
Why is bleed space necessary around card edges?
Neat sides give a presentable and professional look to the cards. It is recommended that you leave bleed space (0.125"-0.25") at the edges to keep the design the same even after the edges are trimmed.
What dimensions are best for birthday cards?
The 5" x 7" (A7) ones are best for occasions like these. You can get them made in custom sizes too, as many people prefer huge cards for their loved ones on their birthdays.
When should you choose oversized card formats?
They can be selected for special occasions like an anniversary or an engagement. Many customers buy large-sized cards as apology cards to impress the recipients.
Where can you order custom-sized greeting cards?
My Box Printing creates greeting cards in customized sizes for different purposes. You get various personalization options to design the card according to your choice.
What is the standard production and delivery turnaround time?
We offer the fastest turnaround time of 4-6 business days. You will receive your order right at your doorstep within the provided time.
Final Takeaways
The blog discussed the standard greeting card sizes (ISO paper sizes and US card-industry sizes) in different units according to your business requirements. It also covered various dimension charts according to different occasions. Each measurement is suitable according to the purpose and occasion for which the card is being made.
However, you can get the cards made in the sizes of your choice from My Box Printing. We offer a large number of customization options that let you create notecards that are beneficial for your business.
