How to Print Microsoft Project Online Timelines to a Large PDF
Question details
The user needs to export and print a complete Microsoft Project timeline onto a large 24-by-36-inch (architectural D sheet) PDF format.

- Product
- Microsoft Project Online
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Preparing a comprehensive project timeline for physical display on a job site or for large-format distribution to team members.
- Observed behavior
- Project for the Web lacks built-in PDF export controls for custom or large page sizes, preventing the direct generation of a 24x36-inch PDF.
Determine whether you are using Project for the Web or the full Microsoft Project Desktop application, as the web version has strict limitations on custom print layouts.
Use Browser Print-to-PDF as a Workaround
Since Project for the Web does not natively support custom PDF page sizes, you must rely on your browser's print dialog combined with a virtual PDF printer.
Microsoft Project for the Web currently lacks native PDF export controls for large formats like a 24x36 architectural D sheet.
As a workaround, you can attempt to use your web browser's built-in print features alongside a third-party or system PDF printer that supports large paper sizes.
Navigate to your project in Project for the Web and open the Timeline (Gantt) view so the data is fully visible on your screen.
Press Ctrl+P (Windows) or Cmd+P (Mac) to open your web browser's print menu.
Change the destination printer to a virtual PDF printer, such as 'Microsoft Print to PDF' or 'Adobe PDF'.
Click on 'More settings' or 'Properties', look for paper size options, and select 'Arch D' or manually enter 24x36 inches if your virtual printer allows custom dimensions, then click Print.

Use Microsoft Project Desktop for Advanced Printing
If you have access to the Project Desktop client, you can connect to your Project Online data and utilize its full, advanced printing capabilities.
Manage Project Timelines and Documents with WPS Office
While Microsoft Project manages complex server-side schedules, WPS Office is an excellent free alternative for creating custom Gantt charts in Spreadsheets or handling large PDF files with its built-in PDF toolkit. Enjoy high compatibility with Microsoft Office formats without the hefty price tag.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free WPS Office suite.
- 2. Create Timelines in Spreadsheet: Open WPS Spreadsheet, use a built-in Gantt chart template, and input your project data.
- 3. Export to Custom PDF: Use the robust Page Layout tools to set your desired paper size and export the spreadsheet directly to a high-quality PDF.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I export custom-sized PDFs directly from Project for the Web?
No, Project for the Web currently lacks built-in controls for exporting to custom PDF page sizes like 24x36 inches. You must rely on browser printing or switch to the Project Desktop application.
How do I get my Project timeline to fit on one page when printing?
In the Project Desktop app, go to File > Print > Page Setup, and use the 'Fit to' option under the Page tab to force the timeline to scale to 1 page wide by 1 page tall.
What exact paper size is an architectural D sheet?
An architectural D sheet (Arch D) measures exactly 24 by 36 inches. To print or export to this size, you will need a large-format plotter or a virtual PDF printer capable of handling custom dimensions.




