Printable dot grid paper PDF

About dot grid paper

Dot grid paper replaces the lines of graph paper with a field of small dots. The dots mark the same grid, but the page looks open, so handwriting, drawings and layouts do not fight with a background of lines. That is why it became the favourite of bullet journallers, designers and sketchers.

You can write straight across the dots, draw boxes and tables by joining them, or ignore them completely for freehand work. Because the dots are small, they almost disappear in a scan or photograph of the finished page.

The generator offers round dots or small crosses, spacing from 2 mm to 40 mm, and an accent mark every few dots to help you count. Dot grids at 5 mm are the standard for journals, while 1/4 inch matches US notebooks.

What you can use it for

• Bullet journals, habit trackers and weekly spreads
• Wireframes and interface sketches that need loose alignment
• Lettering and hand-drawn typography practice
• Meeting notes that mix text, boxes and quick diagrams
• Planning layouts and gardens without the weight of a full grid

The options explained

• Dot spacing. From fine 4 mm dots to 1 cm dots. The default 5 mm matches most journals.
• Mark shape. Round dots, or small crosses that stay visible on textured paper.
• Mark size. Dots between 0.3 and 5 points. Increase it if your printer prints very light.
• Larger mark every. Makes every fifth dot slightly bigger so you can count distances quickly.
• Colour. Mid-grey is the default. Blue and brown are common alternatives.

Printing tips

• Print on 80 to 100 gsm paper. Thinner paper may show the dots on the back.
• For a booklet, print at A5 or Half Letter and add a hole-punch guide from the Extras group.
• If you use fountain pens, a lighter dot colour keeps the page calm.

For more detail, read the guide to printing grid paper at true size.

Frequently asked questions