Large Format Printing 101

If your business relies on digital printing, prints a lot of marketing materials, or your industry frequently prints oversized items, a large format printing machine may be right for you. If you currently outsource these types of print jobs, a large format machine can help lower costs and improve your workflow. 

What is Large Format Printing?

The large format consists of two categories: production print and wide format. A production printer is designed for high-volume printing. Along with speed, these machines print in high resolution, making text and images stand out on the finished product.

A wide format printer sometimes referred to as a plotter, is designed for oversized print jobs. These printers are perfect for the architectural, construction, and engineering industries because they give the ability to print large-scale items in-house.

A flatbed printer, a type of wide format printer, can print on just about any material – paper, wood, acrylic, glass, chloroplast, etc.! 

What is the Difference Between Large Format Printing and Wide Format Printing?

Large format printing and wide format printing are both used to describe a type of printing that is done on a large scale.

However, there is a difference between the two terms.

Wide-format printing generally refers to any type of large-scale printing, regardless of the specific dimensions.

Large format printing, on the other hand, is used to describe a specific size of the print.

In order to be considered a large format, a print must have dimensions that exceed 36 inches in either width or height.

As a result, all wide format prints are large format prints, but not all large format prints are wide format prints.

Wide Format Printing

Wide-format printing refers to any type of high-quality printing that uses large-scale equipment. This type of printing is often used for billboards, banners, murals, and other types of advertising.

While wide format printing used to be a niche service, it is now more accessible than ever before. Thanks to advances in technology, wide format printers are now able to produce prints at a much lower cost than they could in the past.

Who can Benefit from Large Format Printing?

Large format printing can be an excellent way to get your message across, no matter what your business or industry.

From retail stores and shopping malls to office buildings and industrial complexes, there are many environments where large format printing can make a big impact. And because it can be customized to suit any need, it’s easy to find a solution that fits your budget and objectives.

Whether you’re looking for banner stands, posters, or trade show displays, large format printing can help you get noticed and make a lasting impression.

Large Format Printing Opportunities 

There are many printing possibilities when you have a large format machine. Billboards, building wraps, window decals, vehicle wraps, floor graphics, trade show displays, and more are all possible with large format printing.

It is important to note that not all large format machines allow you to print the listed items below. Every printer has different features and abilities.  

Large Format Printers Can Print: 

• Posters
• Banners
• Maps and Blueprints
• Brochures
• Menus
• And more! 

Large Format Printers Can Print On: 

• Paper
• Glass
• Wood
• Canvas
• Metal
• And more! 

Can You Use Photos in Large Format Printing?

When it comes to large format printing, the options for what you can print are nearly limitless.

Many people choose to print photos, as they can make for beautiful and impactful displays.

And with the advances in technology, it’s now easier than ever to get high-quality prints of your favorite photos.

Whether you’re printing a family portrait or a landscape shot, photos can add a personal touch to any space. The best way to ensure high-quality results is to use a professional large format printer to bring your photos to life. 

What are Some Examples of Large Format Printing?

Large format printing refers to any printing project that uses a large sheet of paper. Common examples include posters, banners, and trade show displays.

Large format printing projects often require special printers that can accommodate the larger paper size. In some cases, the print job may need to be completed in multiple sections and then assembled.

Large format printing is an ideal solution for businesses that need to make a big impact with their marketing materials. Posters and banners can be used to draw attention to a sale or promote a new product, while trade show displays can help businesses stand out from the competition.

With so many options available, it’s easy to find a large format printing solution that meets your specific needs.

Contact CEI The Digital Office for Your Next Large Format Printer

At CEI The Digital Office, we proudly sell, lease, and service KIP, Xante, Savin, and Konica Minolta large format machines. If you are unsure if your business would benefit from a production print versus a wide format machine, our team of experts is here to assist to find the right fit for your business. View the wide format printers CEI has to offer or call 919-781-8885 to learn more about what we can do to take your printing to the next level!