Custom Paper Sizes in AutoCAD: Complete Guide
Use a custom paper size only when the required physical media is not already available from the selected printer or PC3. The exact workflow depends on whether AutoCAD is using a Windows system printer or a supported non-system plotter configuration.
Start here — what you are going to do
Your goal: Choose the correct custom-media workflow and create a size without guessing margins.
Where to start: Identify the output device and exact required width, length and printable margins.
Beginner rule: First check whether the standard paper already exists. Custom media should solve a real device requirement, not hide a wrong paper selection.
Step by step — follow this in AutoCAD
Step 1 — Select the real output device
Where: PAGESETUP > Printer/Plotter.
Do this: Choose the printer/PC3 that will actually output the sheet.
Check: You know which device owns the paper list.
Step 2 — Check existing sizes
Where: Paper Size.
Do this: Search for the required size first.
Check: Custom media is genuinely needed.
Step 3 — Open device configuration
Where: Printer/Plotter > Properties or PLOTTERMANAGER.
Do this: Open Plotter Configuration Editor.
Check: Device settings are visible.
Step 4 — Identify system vs non-system
Where: Plotter Configuration Editor.
Do this: System printer: use Custom Properties. Supported non-system: use User-Defined Paper Sizes & Calibration.
Check: You are in the correct workflow.
Step 5 — Enter size and margins
Where: Driver or Custom Paper Size wizard.
Do this: Use real physical dimensions and printable area.
Check: Media matches device capability.
Step 6 — Name it clearly
Where: Paper Size Name.
Do this: Include dimensions/purpose.
Check: Users can identify it.
Step 7 — Test
Where: Wizard test page / Preview / physical plot.
Do this: Verify border and scale.
Check: The custom media works.
Beginner example
A long profile may require 24 × 60 in. If the plotter supports that roll length, create the real media definition rather than selecting ARCH D and using Fit to Paper.
Understand what AutoCAD is doing
System and non-system printers use different paths
Windows system printers use manufacturer Custom Properties; supported non-system devices can use AutoCAD’s custom paper wizard.
Printable area is part of the definition
Nominal width/length are not enough.
PMP can store custom media/calibration data
Relevant PC3 workflows can attach PMP information.
Useful next guides: Add a Custom Paper Size to an AutoCAD PC3 · Add a Custom Paper Size for a Windows System Printer · Create a Custom AutoCAD Paper Size from an Existing Size · Edit a Custom Paper Size · Roll Paper: How to Set Custom Width and Length
Common problems and what to check first
| What you see | What may be causing it | Check this first |
|---|---|---|
| Custom size option unavailable | Windows system printer | Use manufacturer Custom Properties. |
| Size not listed later | Device/filter/configuration mismatch | Reopen correct Page Setup. |
| Border fails on one edge | Printable area too optimistic | Correct margins. |
| Works on one PC only | Device/PC3/PMP not deployed | Share standards. |
When you need a more repeatable workflow
Maintain custom media inside controlled PC3/PMP or managed printer-driver standards and document dimensions, margins and paper source.
Official Autodesk references
AutoCAD labels and available media can vary by release, driver and output device. These Autodesk pages document the core workflow used in this guide.
Frequently asked questions
Should I create a custom A1?
Normally no if the device already supports A1.
Where are custom settings stored?
It depends on the driver; PC3/PMP workflows differ from Windows system-printer forms.
Should I test physically?
Yes for real plotters.
Explore more in CAD Paper Sizes, Margins & Printable Area.