How the lines work
- Top line: tall letters (b, d, h, k, l, t) and capitals reach up to it.
- Dashed middle line: small letters (a, c, e, m, o) fill the space from the baseline up to it.
- Baseline: every letter sits on it. A red baseline helps young writers find it.
- Space below: the tails of g, j, p, q and y hang down into it.
Choosing a size
Children who are just starting to write usually need tall lines (1 in) and move to smaller ones (¾ in, then ½ in) as their control improves. When writing looks cramped, go up a size; when letters float in the space, go down one.
Printing tips
- Print at 100% (Actual size), not Fit to page, so squares and line spacing keep their exact size.
- Light lines (gray or light blue) are easy to write over and fade into the background of a scan or photo; use darker lines for drawing practice or when the paper will be photocopied.
- Need a stack? Set the number of pages and print the PDF once, or print one page and photocopy it.
- Thicker paper (24 to 32 lb or 90 to 120 gsm) takes ink pens and markers without bleeding through.