Free blank handwriting paper
Printable three-line handwriting paper, the same guides used on every worksheet on this site: a top line, a dashed midline and a baseline, with space for descenders. Four rulings, from kindergarten size to adult size, each with a name and date line.
1 inch handwriting paper
1 page · US Letter, prints on A4 · free
Kindergarten and 1st grade. Nine wide rows. The large spacing suits children who are still learning to control the pencil.
3/4 inch handwriting paper
1 page · US Letter, prints on A4 · free
2nd grade. Twelve rows. The usual size for the first year of cursive.
1/2 inch handwriting paper
1 page · US Letter, prints on A4 · free
3rd grade and up. Nineteen rows. Matches the spacing of the practice sheets on this site.
3/8 inch handwriting paper
1 page · US Letter, prints on A4 · free
Older students and adults. Twenty-five rows, close to the size of ordinary adult handwriting.
How to use three-line paper
- Short letters sit between the baseline and the dashed midline: a, c, e, i, m, n, o, r, s, u, v, w, x.
- Tall letters reach the top line: b, d, f, h, k, l and every capital. The t stops just short.
- Descenders drop below the baseline: f, g, j, p, q, y, z.
- Print at 100% so the spacing stays true to size.
New to cursive? Start with the how to write in cursive guide, then use the practice sheets before moving to blank paper.
Handwriting paper questions
What do the three lines on handwriting paper mean?
The bottom solid line is the baseline that letters sit on. The dashed middle line is the ceiling for short letters such as a, e, m and o. The top line is the ceiling for tall letters and capitals. The space below the baseline, before the next row, is for descenders such as g, j, p and y.
Which ruling should I choose?
Use 1 inch for kindergarten and first grade, 3/4 inch for second grade, 1/2 inch from third grade, and 3/8 inch for teenagers and adults. If in doubt, go one size larger: a child who has room writes more accurately.
Is this paper for cursive or print?
Both. Three-line paper is used for manuscript (print) handwriting in the early grades and for cursive afterwards. The proportions are the same.
Can I print it on A4?
Yes. The PDFs are US Letter but print correctly on A4 at 100% scale; the last row simply sits a little closer to the bottom edge.