Types of Large Format Printing

When exploring different options to advertise or promote your company or organization, you may have considered large format printing. Also known as wide format printing, this marketing technique can be a great way to get your message out there in a big and bold way. But what are the different types of large format printing? And which type of printing is best for your needs?

To help you make heads and tails of large-scale printing, we'll talk about the three most common types: digital, screen, and offset.

Digital Format

Digital large format printing is one of the most popular methods because it's versatile and relatively affordable. This type of printing uses inkjet or toner-based printers and can print on various materials, including paper, fabric, vinyl, plastic, and glass. One of the main benefits of digital large format printing is that it's a speedy process - professional printing companies can complete most jobs in a day or two.

Screen Printing

Screen printing is a traditional type of large format printing that involves exposing a cloth screen to ink and pressing it against the printed material. Screen printing is standard for T-shirts, banners, and other fabric items. One downside to screen printing is that it can be more expensive than other methods. Additionally, it could take a bit longer to produce finished products.

Offset Printing

Offset printing is among the most common type of large format printing, used for various applications, from magazines and newspapers to business cards and flyers. This method uses large rollers to transfer ink from plates to the print material. Among the benefits of offset printing is that it produces high-quality results. However, it can be a slow process, and it's often more expensive than digital printing.

Choosing The Best Format For Your Requirements

When choosing a large format printing method, it's essential to consider your budget, timeline, and the type of material getting printed. Generally, digital printing is an excellent all-around choice for most needs. However, offset printing may be a better option if you're looking for high-quality results. Screen printing is a good choice for fabric items, but it can be more expensive and time-consuming than other methods.

Other factors to consider would be whether you already have creative artwork for your project or if you'll need someone to create it for you. If you already have the artwork, ensure it's high-resolution and in the correct file format before sending it to the printer. If you don't have artwork, the experts at SWBP can help you create it.

If you're not sure which printing method is best for your needs, our team at SWBP is available to help you get the best results. So contact us today to get started!