A6 vs 5x7 Cards

When you’re printing your own Christmas cards at home, one of the first choices you’ll make is size. Most printable cards come in two popular formats: A6 and 5×7 inches. Both are beautiful, but they each create a slightly different look and feel.

If you’re wondering which size is best for your holiday greetings, this guide will help you choose confidently — based on style, practicality, printing and the aesthetic you want to share.

What Is an A6 Christmas Card?

A6 is a European paper standard and equals 4.5 × 6.25 inches when folded.

An A6 card is:

• cozy and slightly smaller

• perfect for handwritten notes

• easy and economical to print at home

• great for soft, minimalist illustrations

• ideal for European envelope sizes

In other words: simple, cute and very “warm & handmade.”

What Is a 5×7 Christmas Card?

A 5×7 inch card is the most popular card size in the US and many online stationery shops.

A 5×7 card is:

• larger and more prominent

• perfect for bold illustrations

• great for gifting

• visually strong in photos

• compatible with widely sold envelopes

It feels more like a statement piece — a little bit more “special.”

Which Size Is Best for Printable Christmas Cards?

The best size depends on your goal. Here’s how to choose:

1. For Cozy, Soft, Minimal Designs → Choose A6

A6 cards feel warm, handmade and intimate.They’re perfect for:

• soft cat illustrations (like my Maine Coon character Charlie Bubbles)

• pastel colour palettes

• minimal winter scenes

• handwritten messages

A6 also uses less ink and paper — great for budget-friendly printing.

2. For Bold, Larger Artwork → Choose 5×7

This size allows your design to shine with more detail and presence.

It’s ideal for:

• expressive illustrations

• decorative elements

• people who frame Christmas cards

• sending cards as mini art prints

5×7 is loved by those who want the card to feel like a small gift.

3. For Teachers, Offices or Large Quantities → A6

A6 prints faster, costs less, and fits more easily into standard envelopes.

Perfect for:

• bulk printing

• classroom gifts

• small businesses

• neighbour cards

  
  

  4. For Gifts or Display Cards → 5×7

If someone displays their cards on the mantel or uses them as decor, 5×7 looks stunning.

What About Printing?

Both sizes are easy to print at home.

A6 printing benefits:

• less ink

• more economical

• prints cleanly on almost all printers

5×7 printing benefits:

• stands strong when folded

• looks luxurious and spacious

• ideal if your printer supports borderless printing

My printable Christmas cards always include both sizes so everyone can choose what feels right.

My Personal Favorite?

A6 for cosy moments, 5×7 for statement designs.

Both sizes bring their own charm — and both look beautiful with soft winter colours, hand-drawn textures and Charlie Bubbles’ expressive holiday poses.

Final Thought

There’s no wrong choice — just the card that matches your style.Whether small and sweet or large and memorable, printable Christmas cards bring warmth and personality to every home.

Happy printing & warm holiday wishes! ✨

See the Charlie Bubbles Christmas Collection in my Etsy shop