Choosing the Right Material for Wide Format Printing, Wide format printing has become an essential tool for businesses aiming to make a bold statement with their visuals. From banners and posters to large wall graphics and billboards, the material you choose for your wide format print can significantly impact the quality, durability, and overall success of your project.
At Slick Graphics, we’ve spent years perfecting our craft, ensuring that we help our clients not only achieve stunning visuals but also make informed decisions about the right materials for their printing needs. In this blog, we’ll break down the key materials used in wide format printing and their ideal applications, helping you select the best one for your next project.
1. Vinyl Banners
Best For: Outdoor Advertising, Event Displays, Trade Shows
Vinyl is a top choice for wide format printing, especially for banners. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and versatile, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. There are two main types of vinyl:
- Scrim Vinyl: This option is reinforced with a polyester mesh, giving it strength and making it ideal for outdoor banners where wind or harsh weather conditions are a factor.
- Adhesive Vinyl: Often used for window decals or wall graphics, this type of vinyl has a sticky back, allowing for easy application on smooth surfaces.
At Slick Graphics, we recommend vinyl for its cost-effectiveness and durability, particularly for large-scale outdoor projects. Our printing technology ensures crisp, high-resolution images that stand up to the elements.
2. Canvas
Best For: Indoor Displays, Art Reproductions, Photography
For projects that require a more premium look, canvas is an excellent option. Canvas is ideal for fine art prints, high-end retail displays, and photography reproductions. The textured surface of the canvas gives prints a professional, artistic feel, and the material is durable enough to last indoors for years.
At Slick Graphics, we use high-quality canvas materials to ensure your prints not only look great but also maintain their quality over time. Whether you’re decorating an office space or printing a gallery exhibit, canvas offers a sophisticated touch.
3. Polyester Fabric
Best For: Flags, Event Backdrops, Tablecloths
Polyester fabric is increasingly popular for its lightweight nature and vivid color reproduction. It’s flexible, easy to transport, and works well for large displays like event backdrops, trade show banners, and custom flags. Unlike vinyl, polyester fabric is often chosen for indoor use due to its softer look and feel.
For businesses looking to showcase their branding at events, Slick Graphics offers a range of fabric printing solutions that ensure your colors pop while maintaining a professional, smooth finish.
4. Foam Board
Best For: Indoor Signage, Presentations, Exhibits
Foam board is a lightweight, rigid material ideal for indoor signage, presentations, or temporary displays. It’s easy to mount and comes in various thicknesses, allowing for creative design options. Foam boards are perfect for retail displays, promotional signs, or any situation where you need a portable, sturdy option that’s easy to set up.
Our team at Slick Graphics uses foam boards extensively for clients who need vibrant indoor signage that makes an impact. The smooth surface of the board allows for detailed printing and sharp imagery.
5. Mesh Banners
Best For: Windy Locations, Outdoor Advertisements
If your project requires outdoor signage in a windy area, mesh banners are the way to go. The material features small holes that allow wind to pass through, reducing the risk of damage to the banner. Mesh banners are commonly used for large-scale outdoor ads, such as building wraps or fence banners at construction sites and sports events.
At Slick Graphics, we ensure that even with the perforated nature of mesh, your graphics remain sharp and vibrant, giving your brand maximum exposure without compromising on quality.
6. Coroplast (Corrugated Plastic)
Best For: Yard Signs, Short-Term Outdoor Use
Corrugated plastic, or Coroplast, is an affordable and lightweight material often used for yard signs, political campaign signs, and short-term outdoor displays. It’s durable, waterproof, and can withstand moderate outdoor conditions. For businesses looking for temporary signage, Coroplast provides a budget-friendly option without sacrificing print quality.
Slick Graphics frequently uses Coroplast for clients who need temporary signage for events or sales, ensuring quick turnaround times and high-quality prints.
Why Material Matters
Choosing the right material for your wide format print project depends on various factors, including:
- Location: Indoor or outdoor? Will the material need to withstand the elements?
- Durability: How long do you need the material to last?
- Look and Feel: Does the project require a premium finish or a more practical, cost-effective solution?
- Budget: Certain materials are more budget-friendly than others, especially for large-scale prints.
At Slick Graphics, we understand that each project is unique. That’s why we work closely with our clients to recommend the best material based on their specific needs, ensuring they get the most out of their investment.
Conclusion
When it comes to wide format printing, the material you choose is just as important as the design itself. Whether you’re creating a banner for an outdoor event, a fine art print for an office, or signage for a trade show, selecting the right material ensures that your print looks great, lasts long, and makes the impact you’re aiming for.
If you’re unsure which material is right for your next project, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Slick Graphics. With over six years of experience in designing, printing, and branding, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today and let’s bring your vision to life with the right material for your wide format printing needs!
