How to print a booklet or zine?
🖨️ How to Print A3 Zines as A4 Booklets
A Guide for Students Using Mac & Windows
Want to fold an A3 sheet into an A4-sized zine? This guide helps you print your A3 document so it reads like a proper booklet — whether you're using a Mac or Windows.
📐 Format Your Zine Correctly First
Before you print:
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Final zine size: A4 (when folded)
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Paper size: A3 (297mm x 420mm)
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Page count: Multiple of 4 (4, 8, 12…)
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Design software options:
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Canva, Adobe InDesign, Affinity Publisher, Scribus etc.
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Export your zine as a PDF
🖥️ How to Print A3 Booklets on a Mac
✅ Best Method: Using Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free)
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Open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader.
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Go to File > Print.
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In the print dialog:
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Printer: GSA Colour Print
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Page Sizing & Handling: Choose Booklet
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Booklet subset: Both sides (if duplex), or Front side only
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Binding: Left
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Click Page Setup, and make sure:
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Paper Size = A3
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Two-Sided: Turn on if supported, or do manual double-sided printing.
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Click Print. GSA Colour Print
💻 How to Print A3 Booklets on Windows
✅ Best Method: Using Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free)
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Open your zine PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader.
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Go to File > Print.
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In the print dialog:
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Page Sizing & Handling: Select Booklet
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Booklet Subset: Both sides or manual front/back
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Binding: Left
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Orientation: Portrait
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Click Properties or Printer Settings and make sure:
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Paper size = A3
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Enable Short Edge Binding
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Hit Print.
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Fold each A3 sheet in half and staple along the spine.
✂️ Assembly Tips for A3-to-A4 Zines
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Staple along the fold (called saddle-stitch)
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Use a long-arm stapler, or poke holes and sew the spine
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For a clean edge, trim with a craft knife and metal ruler
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You can make covers from heavier A3 paper for a professional look