Reference library
Brochure Print Size
The most common brochure print size is 8.5 x 11 in before folding, often used as a tri-fold brochure with three panels per side.
Last checked: 2026-05-01
How we calculate this
Methodology and source handling
We convert physical sizes to inches, multiply by the selected DPI/PPI value, and round to whole pixels.
Quick answer
Copy-ready answer
Use 8.5 x 11 in for a standard tri-fold brochure. At 300 DPI, trim artwork is 2550 x 3300 px before adding bleed.
Dimensions and specs
| Trim size | 8.5 x 11 in | |
|---|---|---|
| Metric trim | 215.9 x 279.4 mm | |
| Aspect ratio | 17:22 | |
| 300 DPI trim | 2550 x 3300 px | |
| Bleed canvas | 8.75 x 11.25 in (222.25 x 285.75 mm) | |
| 300 DPI with bleed | 2625 x 3375 px | |
| Popular variants | 8.5 x 11 tri-fold; 11 x 17 half-fold; A4 tri-fold outside the US | |
| Best for | Tri-fold brochures, menus, service explainers, sales literature |
Pixels
Pixel dimensions by DPI
| DPI / PPI | Width | Height | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72 DPI | 612 px | 792 px | Screen preview or draft layout check |
| 96 DPI | 816 px | 1056 px | Browser and presentation preview |
| 150 DPI | 1275 px | 1650 px | Economy print or larger viewing distance |
| 300 DPI | 2550 px | 3300 px | Recommended high-quality print target |
| 600 DPI | 5100 px | 6600 px | Fine line art or specialist production |
Formula
How to calculate this size
215.9 mm x 300 PPI = 2,550 px wide.
Use this when the artwork stops at the finished edge.
Add 3.18 mm per side before calculating pixels when artwork reaches the edge.
Common mistakes
Avoid these print setup mistakes
If artwork reaches the edge, add bleed before export so small cutting shifts do not leave a white border.
Keep names, prices, QR codes, and calls to action inside the safe area, not directly on the trim line.
Close-viewed print usually needs 300 DPI; large signs and banners can use lower effective PPI when viewed from farther away.
Calculator
Calculate pixels and bleed
Enter any DPI to calculate the pixel dimensions for this physical size.
Compare
Compare Brochure Print Size
Open a curated comparison or send both sizes into the compare tool with a fragment URL.
For menus, maps or more visual layouts, an 11 x 17 in half-fold brochure gives larger panels. Outside the US, A4 tri-fold brochures are common. Always build fold guides from the printer template because panel widths can vary slightly to account for the fold-in panel.
Workflow
Use Brochure Print Size in a finished file
Set the finished product size before adding bleed or safe margin.
Extend backgrounds past trim and keep text inside the safe area.
Export PDF or raster files at the requested PPI and check crop marks before handoff.
Related
Related pages and tools
Same branch
Nearby pages
FAQ
Common questions
What is the standard brochure size?
A common US brochure starts at 8.5 x 11 in before folding. Tri-fold brochures usually create three panels per side.
What pixel size is an 8.5 x 11 brochure at 300 DPI?
The full unfolded trim size is 2550 x 3300 px at 300 DPI. With 0.125 in bleed on every side, use 2625 x 3375 px.
Are tri-fold panels exactly the same width?
Not always. Many tri-fold templates make the fold-in panel slightly narrower. Use the printer template for exact panel guides.
What is the metric alternative to a US brochure?
A4 at 210 x 297 mm is the common international alternative to US Letter brochures.
Should a brochure use bleed?
Use bleed when backgrounds, photos or color blocks touch the edge. Keep text away from folds and trim edges.
References
Sources and references
Commercial print dimensions are checked against reputable print-provider references. Bleed guidance follows Adobe and printer setup recommendations; final requirements should be confirmed with the printer.
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UPrinting: print sizing tips
Used as a commercial print reference for common flyer, brochure, rack card, booklet, banner, and catalog sizes.
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Adobe InDesign print bleed guidance
Used for bleed, crop-mark, and print setup guidance.
Last checked: 2026-05-01