What is wide format printing?

Wide format printing is the process involved in creating large format displays. It requires specialist equipment and can be used to generate oversized graphics on a range of materials. The technique has exploded in popularity over recent years in line with technological advances in the field of printing.
 
Now, wide format printing can be used to create visual media for an array of creative, promotional and informational purposes. Whether you’re looking for a professional looking point of sale display for a shop or you want to brand a fleet of company vehicles, you might turn to wide format printing.

What is large/wide format printing used for?

As highlighted above, large format printing has many applications. To give you a clearer idea of its potential, here’s a more in-depth rundown of some of its most popular uses.

Outdoor advertising

This type of printing is now a mainstay in outdoor signage and advertising. It’s used to create everything from the large banners displayed on advertising hoardings and scaffolding, to the micro-perforated graphics seen on buses and in shop windows.  
 

Retail displays

Large format prints are also widely used in retail environments. From branded signage and floor graphics to point of purchase displays and promotional posters, they can be used to enhance the customer experience and drive sales.

 
Car wrapping

Large vinyl wraps can instantly refresh the look of cars and other vehicles, and they are often cheaper than a new paint job. This makes them a popular choice for businesses looking to brand their vehicle fleets, as well as consumers who want to give their cars a new look. This wrapping technique can even be used on boats.

Interior decoration

Large format printing can play a role in decorating projects too - in the form of wall coverings (including wallpapers and textiles), acoustic textiles, window decorations, floor materials and more.

Exhibition displays

Large format media is also ubiquitous in exhibition settings. As well as being used to create traditional signage, print can be applied to tension fabrics that stretch across curved or angular frames, creating dramatic visual effects. In addition, front and backlit printed polyester films are a popular choice at exhibitions.

Window and glass coverings

From branding applied to exterior windows to decorative prints used on interior partitions and glass cases, large format printing is harnessed to create a variety of visually striking effects on glass. Options range from coloured or transparent vinyls to cut out letters and shapes.

What materials are used for large format printing?

A wide variety of materials are used in large format printing, offering a range of practical and visual properties. This means that when you are choosing materials for your project, you will need to think carefully about the features you want to prioritise. To give you a rough idea of your options, here are three of the most popular categories of materials available.

Paper and board

Paper and board are widely used in large format printing, and it’s easy to see why. These materials are available in a range of attractive finishes and colours, and can be an inexpensive and practical option for a variety of projects. They are also easily recyclable in general waste streams, making them a sustainable choice. However, while they are ideal for many indoor applications, they are not a particularly durable solution, meaning they aren’t suitable for most outdoor or long-term installations.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene products offer many benefits for large format printing too. Strong, lightweight and resistant to moisture, they can be a practical choice for a range of indoor and outdoor applications, from rigid boards to flexible films that will stick to a variety of surfaces and can be easily repositioned. An alternative to PVC, polypropylene is also recyclable.

Self-adhesive vinyl

Vinyl is a top choice for a range of applications. As well as outdoor installations and wrapping, it is commonly used for internal applications such as window films, floor graphics and decorative self-adhesive vinyls, including Coala Interior Films. This material is extremely easy to cut and shape, and it comes in various attractive finishes, including gloss, matte and even reflective mirror.

How much does large format printing cost?

The cost of large format printing depends on many factors, including the size of prints you need and the materials you plan to use.

At Antalis, we offer a range of large format printing products and services from brands such as Coala. Browse our website to discover more about the solutions we offer and how they could benefit you.