Large format printing, also called wide format printing, offers businesses a way to make a big impact and draw in a whole new group of customers that might not have previously known the company even existed. But how can you make sure your business’ large format printing exploits pay off? Here are five tips to guide you through the process of designing, printing and hanging your sign, banner or billboard ad:
- Spring for Quality Printing
Large format printing is a highly technical process, and you’re not going to be able to handle it without help. It’s worth looking at a few commercial printing companies and figuring out which ones not only have the equipment to do large format printing, but also have a good customer support system to guide you through the process of creating a design.
- Take a Look at the Color Wheel
When it comes to choosing high-contrast colors for a design that will really pop even from far away, a simple color wheel is your greatest too. Colors that are opposite or close to opposite on the wheel have the highest contrast; colors that are next to each other are more soothing, which is great for a nursery but not so great for an outdoor ad.
- Don’t Neglect Your Copy
Don’t get so caught up in the appearance of your large format project that you forget about the copy elements you’ll need on there. At the very least, you’ll want your brand name and/or logo and some contact information.
- Get Out the Measuring Tape
When you’re trying to figure out how big your text and other elements should be on your sign or banner, you’ll need to measure the distance between where it will be installed and where it will be viewed from. Your large format printing company may be able to give you some more specific guidance, but 1 inch of height for every 10 feet of distance is a good place to start, meaning that a letter 10 inches high can be read from 100 feet away, and so forth.
- Ask for Help on Installation
If at all possible, choose a large format printing company that will also help you install your finished project. Making sure installation is done properly will enhance both appearance and durability, so it’s worth spending a few extra bucks.
Have you ever used large format printing before? Share your large format printing tips and tricks in the comments.