Printable primary story paper

Half drawing space, half writing lines, the classic layout for early writers who tell a story in pictures and words.

You're making 3/4″ story paper – US Letter
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Direct download (no JavaScript needed): US Letter PDF · A4 PDF

Variations

What prints with the starting settings

Specifications of 3/4″ story paper – US Letter, as set when the page opens; the notes under the preview follow your changes
PaperUS Letter — 215.9 × 279.4 mm (8.5 × 11 in)
Writing lines5
Writing height3/4″
Margins1/2″
Line weight0.25 mm (bold 0.35 mm)
Print settingScale 100% / Actual size
Print at 100%. In the print dialog choose Scale 100% or Actual size (not “Fit to page”) and margins None. Grids measuring a few percent small? Calibrate your printer once and every download is corrected.
Printable 3/4″ story paper – US Letter — preview of the PDF
3/4″ story paper – US Letter, rendered by the same engine that makes the PDF.

Draw first, then write

For children who are just learning to write, drawing is planning. A picture of the weekend, a favourite animal or a story’s beginning gives them something to say, and the lines underneath give them a place to say it. Story paper puts both on one page, which is why it is used in kindergarten, first and second grade classrooms for journals, writing workshops and homework.

Choosing the layout

A larger picture box suits the youngest children, who write a sentence or two. As writing grows, shrink the box and choose smaller line sets for more lines. The lines follow the familiar three-line pattern with a red baseline and a dashed midline.

Printing tips

Print at 100% / Actual size. Staple ten sheets for a journal, or print double-sided for a booklet.

More handwriting sheets

Frequently asked questions

What is primary story paper?

Paper with a large box for a drawing on the top half of the page and handwriting lines with a dashed midline underneath. Young children draw their story first, then write about it.

Which line size should I choose?

The default 3/4 inch lines suit kindergarten and first grade, when children write short sentences. The 1/2 inch variation fits more words for second graders and confident writers, and you can type any other height, such as 5/8 inch, in the generator.

Can I change how big the picture box is?

Yes, from 20 to 70 percent of the page.

How do children use the dashed midline?

Lowercase letters such as a and o reach the dashed line; tall letters and capitals reach the top line; letters such as g and y drop below the baseline.

Is it good for journals?

Yes. A stack of story paper stapled together makes a simple daily journal for early writers.

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