A wide format printer is one that can print on paper ranging in width from 18 inches to 100 inches. Posters, banners, vehicle graphics, building plans, architectural drawings, wallpaper, and other big format requirements are routinely printed using wide format printers. These printers typically employ inkjet technology to print on a range of media, such as plain paper, glossy-coated paper, and waterproof/tear-proof sheets.
Wide format printers come in a variety of sizes. Generally, the broader the printer, the higher the price. There are several applications for large format printing. This printing method may be used to attract attention from a distance, providing a visual reference for designers and engineers, and much more. Wide-format printers can be a more cost-effective printing option for short-run projects than other printing processes such as screen printing.
A basic entry-level machine will print the image with four inks: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. These colours are “combined to create the full colour palette.” A four colour machine will offer adequate print quality for cad drawings, posters, and other similar applications. Other colours, such as light cyan, light magenta, and orange, are available on computers. These are primarily used for fine art printing, where the ultimate product is highly colour specific. Which wide-format equipment you require is often determined by your industry and the prints you intend to generate.
There are several fascinating materials that may be used as substrates in the manufacture of big size graphics. Paper, vinyl, metal, and even textiles are examples. These various materials may be used for a wide range of applications and give a number of aesthetic and functional benefits. Substrates are often chosen for their special adaptability to the demands of a certain project. Retail graphics, for example, may be made of a less durable vinyl than outdoor hoarding graphics or vehicle graphics. Similarly, graphics intended for usage in city centres may include anti-graffiti vinyl to dissuade would-be vandals from detracting from the aesthetic effect of the structures.
What materials can be used for large format printing?
Paper
Paper is so versatile and abundantly available that it’s no wonder that it’s still one of the most preferred big scale printing substrates. While it is inexpensive and simple to get, it is not the most lasting material, and it is not recommended for outdoor or long-term installations.
Vinyl
Vinyl is the material of choice for outdoor installations. Vinyl is incredibly flexible, easy to cut and shape, and available in a number of finishes ranging from matte to gloss. Because of its price and adaptability, this is the material used on many outdoor advertising goods (including car wraps), and it is frequently applied to a hard background for support and enhanced longevity.
Textiles and fabrics
With the introduction of new big format installations like tension fabric frames, it’s not unexpected to see an increase in the number of wide format print companies offering fabric prints. These substrates may be used for a wide range of applications, from basic frames to acoustic treatment panels.
Wood, metal, and other hard surface
Wide format print companies with specialised equipment can print on solid and stiff materials like aluminium or wood, and while this is not as common as something like vinyl, it means wide format printing may be used for a variety of odd projects like art or photography exhibits.
