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:

  • Final zine size: A4 (when folded)

  • Paper size: A3 (297mm x 420mm)

  • Page count: Multiple of 4 (4, 8, 12…)

  • Design software options:

    • Canva, Adobe InDesign, Affinity Publisher, Scribus etc.

  • Export your zine as a PDF


🖥️ How to Print A3 Booklets on a Mac

✅ Best Method: Using Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free)

  1. Open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader.

  2. Go to File > Print.

  3. In the print dialog:

    • Printer: GSA Colour Print

    • Page Sizing & Handling: Choose Booklet

    • Booklet subset: Both sides (if duplex), or Front side only

    • Binding: Left

  4. Click Page Setup, and make sure:

    • Paper Size = A3

  5. Two-Sided: Turn on if supported, or do manual double-sided printing.

  6. Click Print. GSA Colour Print

 


💻 How to Print A3 Booklets on Windows

✅ Best Method: Using Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free)

  1. Open your zine PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader.

  2. Go to File > Print.

  3. In the print dialog:

    • Page Sizing & Handling: Select Booklet

    • Booklet Subset: Both sides or manual front/back

    • Binding: Left

    • Orientation: Portrait

  4. Click Properties or Printer Settings and make sure:

    • Paper size = A3

    • Enable Short Edge Binding 

  5. Hit Print.

  6. Fold each A3 sheet in half and staple along the spine.


✂️ Assembly Tips for A3-to-A4 Zines

  • Staple along the fold (called saddle-stitch)

  • Use a long-arm stapler, or poke holes and sew the spine

  • For a clean edge, trim with a craft knife and metal ruler

  • You can make covers from heavier A3 paper for a professional look


Answer

  • Last Updated May 13, 2025
  • Views 20
  • Answered By April Lannigan

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