A well-designed letterhead adds professionalism and credibility to your business communications. Whether you’re a freelancer or a large corporation, investing in quality letterhead design and printing is key to making a strong first impression.

📏 Standard Letterhead Size

The most common letterhead dimensions are::

  • US Standard: 8.5″ x 11″ (Letter size)
  • International (A4): 210mm x 297mm

✅ Tip: These sizes are compatible with most printers and envelopes, ensuring ease of use across various business applications.

💳 Types of Letterheads

Here are some popular styles you’ll find:

  1. Personal Letterheads – Ideal for freelancers or consultants.
  2. Corporate Letterheads – Include logos, contact info, and branding elements.
  3. Digital Letterheads – Optimized for PDF or email use, not intended for physical printing.
  4. Custom Letterheads – Designed for special events or high-impact communication.

🎨 Professional Printing Tips

  • Use High-Quality Paper: 90–120 gsm paper offers durability and a premium feel.
  • Choose CMYK Color Mode: Ensures color accuracy during printing.
  • Leave a Print-Safe Margin: Keep key content at least 0.25″ (6mm) from the edges.
  • Consider Pre-Printing: For bulk use, pre-printing designs on high-quality stock can reduce costs.
  • Test Prints: Always print a sample before bulk orders to verify alignment, color, and spacing.

❌ What Not to Do on a Letterhead

  • Don’t use low-resolution images – They’ll print blurry.
  • Avoid too much information – It can feel overwhelming.
  • Never use hard-to-read fonts like cursive or overly stylized ones.
  • Don’t forget contact info – Double-check your phone number and email.

🖼️ Sample Layout of Letterhead (Feel Free to Visualize or Share with a Designer)

🖨️ Ready to Print?

When you’re ready to print, make sure your file:

  • Is in CMYK color mode
  • Has at least 300 DPI resolution
  • Includes crop marks and bleed areas

You can save it as a PDF, AI, or EPS file — those are commonly accepted by print shops.

Conclusion

A professionally designed letterhead communicates trust and enhances your brand image. By understanding the standard sizes, types, and key printing tips, you can create letterheads that stand out and serve your business effectively.