How to Change the Paper Size on an HP Printer
By Bonnie Conrad
The ability to print on many different sizes of paper, from as small as an envelope to as large as legal size, can make your printer much more useful. Most HP printer models are designed to accommodate a wide variety of paper sizes, but it is up to the person who uses the printer to tell it which size paper to use.
Step 1
Make sure the paper trays in your printer can accommodate the paper size you wish to use. The drawers on most HP laser printers have a sizing mechanism that allows the tray to accept paper that is smaller or larger than 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches, but it is important to check your printer before getting started.
Step 2
Pull out the paper drawer and look for a locking mechanism at the bottom of the tray. This mechanism has two pictures of a lock on it--one showing the lock open and one showing the lock closed. Flip the lever to the unlocked position and unload the paper tray.
Step 3
Find the size paper you wish to use, then slide the tray guides into the proper position. The printer should have markings for common paper sizes, such as standard size and legal size. Make sure that the tray guides are in their proper place, then flip the lever back to the locked position.
Step 4
Log on to your computer and find the document you wish to print. Click on the "File" menu and choose "Print" from the drop-down box. Click the "Properties" button and choose the paper size you want to use. Make sure to also change the tray if the odd-sized paper is loaded in only one tray.
References
Writer Bio
Based in Pennsylvania, Bonnie Conrad has been working as a professional freelance writer since 2003. Her work can be seen on Credit Factor, Constant Content and a number of other websites. Conrad also works full-time as a computer technician and loves to write about a number of technician topics. She studied computer technology and business administration at Harrisburg Area Community College.