When designing a graphic for large format printing, the design must take into account that it will be seen at a distance as well as close up. Designs that are too complex or not clear from a distance may lose effectiveness at engaging attendees with your message. Also, fonts should be consistent in size to keep them from becoming a visual distraction. Color choice is crucial, as it can enhance or detract from your messaging.

A bleed margin of 1/8″ is best for most large format prints, and any graphics or images that need to reach the edge of the printed material must be placed inside this area to prevent white edges after cutting. When preparing files for large format printing, it is important to check with your print shop to find out what file formats are accepted and recommended. Most shops will accept vector and composite files in PDF format, and raster-only files in TIFF or high quality/low compression JPEG. When saving your file, be sure to embed the correct color profiles, as this will ensure that your colors match up exactly with what the printer prints on the material.

For any large printing project, it is always best to use vector files whenever possible, as these are resolution-independent and can be scaled to any size without loss of image quality. Vector files also tend to look sharper and more crisp than raster files at larger sizes, as they contain more pixels per inch. However, for simple designs that are not complex, raster files can also work well at large sizes. Just be sure to keep the number of pixels per inch at or below 300 dpi for your prints.

Large format printing offers a wide range of opportunities to infuse your workspace, branding and visual experience with impactful messaging and eye-catching visuals. These can include directional and event signage; custom wallpapers that help to create the perfect environment for your company culture; and window displays that draw attention to special events or products.

Another great way to add large format printing to your marketing arsenal is with vehicle wraps, which allow you to turn your vehicles into a moving billboard for your brand. With the right imagery and messaging, these can be a great addition to your overall marketing strategy, making them an invaluable tool that is cost-effective and easy to implement.

One of the most important aspects of a successful large-scale design is keeping in mind that your design will be viewed at both distance and close up, with attendees absorbing new information within seconds. Ensure your message and branding is easily visible to your audience by making sure the design is bold, simple and clearly communicates all of the necessary information. If you’re struggling to come up with a compelling and creative design for your next event, consider reaching out to the experts at a reputable custom print services.