What are letterheads?
A letterhead is the printed sheet used for formal letters, quotes and invoices. Your logo, address and company details are pre-printed, and the body text is added later — usually through an office printer.
Common uses
- Formal letters and correspondence
- Quotations and estimates
- Certificates and statements
- Contracts and terms
Sizes and formats
| Format | Size | Typically used for |
|---|---|---|
| A4 | 210 × 297mm | The UK standard |
| A5 | 148 × 210mm | For shorter notes |
Available formats depend on production availability. Custom sizes may be possible — mention them in your enquiry.
Materials and finishes
Letterheads are typically printed on 100–120gsm uncoated paper. If they'll be fed through a laser printer, ask for a laser-guaranteed stock to avoid problems with toner adhesion.
Printing options
Letterheads are frequently litho printed for crisp brand colours on uncoated paper; shorter runs may be digital. Digital printing tends to suit shorter runs, quick reprints and personalised or versioned work. Litho printing tends to become more economical as quantities rise and gives excellent colour consistency on long runs. The right method depends on your quantity, stock and finish, and we'll suggest an approach in your quotation.
Quantities
Many businesses order letterheads in larger batches alongside compliment slips and envelopes to keep paper and colour consistent.
Artwork requirements
- Supply a print-ready PDF at finished size
- Add 3mm bleed to every edge
- Keep text and logos at least 3mm inside the trim
- Use images around 300dpi at final size
- Set colours to CMYK (or name Pantone spot colours)
- Embed fonts or convert them to outlines
Leave a clear area for body text and check that your registered company details appear as required.
Turnaround and delivery
Turnaround depends on the product, specification, quantity, finishing, supplier availability and delivery location. Tell us when you need your letterheads and where they're going, and we'll confirm what's achievable in your quotation. We deliver to addresses across the UK.
Letterheads: frequently asked questions
What should a UK business letterhead include?
Limited companies are generally required to show their registered name, company number, place of registration and registered office address on business letters. Check current Companies House guidance for your business.
Can letterheads go through my office printer?
Ask for a laser-compatible paper. Digitally printed letterheads may not always be suitable for laser printers, so mention how you'll use them.
