The Basics of Large Format Printing: What You Need to Know

Large format printing is a type of printing that uses large-sized printing equipment to produce output on various materials such as paper, vinyl, fabric, and more that is larger than normal printing and printing projects. This type of printing allows for custom designs, large images, and large-scale graphics to be printed quickly, efficiently, and for an affordable price. Large format printing is used for a variety of applications, from signage and banners to billboards, vehicle wraps, and more.

Here at AlphaGraphics South Charlotte, we offer the best large format printing services for your needs. Learn more about some of the basics of large format printing, and contact us today!

Size Matters

When it comes to large format printing, the most important factor to consider is the size of the project. Depending on the size, you may need to use a large format printer such as a wide-format printer or a flatbed printer. Wide-format printers are capable of producing prints anywhere from 24 inches to 10 feet in width and can be used to print on a variety of substrates. Flatbed printers are even larger and can print on materials up to 5 feet by 10 feet in size. AlphaGraphics South Charlotte carries a wide variety of large format printers to meet your needs. Get in touch today!

Printing Technology

In addition to the size of the project, you will need to select the right type of printing technology. The most common types of large format printing are solvent-based, UV-curable, and latex-based. Each of these technologies has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to research each one in order to determine which one is best for your project. Or, if you are short on time to do research as a busy business owner, let our custom print shop technicians help. We have years of experience helping local businesses with all of their large format printing needs. Call with questions today.

Printing Material

Once you’ve selected the right printing technology, you need to select the right type of material for your large format printing project. Depending on the type of material you need to print on, you may need to select a specific type of ink. Solvent-based inks are the most common type of ink used for large format printing, as they are highly resistant to fading, smudging, and water damage. UV-curable inks are also popular, as they are more environmentally friendly and require no additional drying time. Latex-based inks are the most expensive, but they are also the most durable and offer the most vivid colors, making them popular for outdoor large format sign projects. Let our printing experts at our local print shop help today.

Choose Your Large Format Printing Process

When it comes to large format printing, there are two main types of large format printing processes – digital and lithographic. As the name suggests, digital large format printing involves the use of digital printing technology to produce prints that are of a higher quality than those produced by lithographic printing. Digital large format printing is usually used for short runs and is used by many businesses and organizations to produce high-quality prints.

The second type of large format printing is lithographic printing. Lithographic printing is a more traditional method of printing that uses a chemical process to produce prints on a variety of materials. This type of printing is usually used for larger runs and is often used to produce posters, banners, signs, and other types of promotional materials. Let the team at AlphaGraphics South Carolina help today!

ASK OUR LOCAL PRINT SHOP HOW LARGE FORMAT PRINTING CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS