The Art of Large Format Printing by PRI Graphics
Large format printing isn’t possible using professional small format printers similar to the desktop models that are found in many offices.
Although most jobs can be done with flatbed digital printing, others that demand larger formats with superior printing quality will require the services of professional printing companies like PRI Graphics in Phoenix, Arizona.
PRI Graphics utilizes wide format printers that can print in color or black and white. Both offer superior product and print quality.
We are also able to print onto various types of unique printing materials that extend beyond paper, such as vinyl, metal, glass, fabric, canvas, wood, and many other unique materials.
When you need to print larger surfaces or materials, this type of printing is the most common option that yields affordable, professional, high quality results.
What Is Large Format Printing?
These services are utilized when we need to apply ink to a large surface area, such as a banner, a window graphic, or blueprints.
- WIDE FORMAT PRINTING – prints on materials that range in size from 18 – 100 inches.
- SUPER WIDE or GRAND FORMAT PRINTING – prints on materials that extend beyond 100 inches.
Some of these printing machines operate in a fashion similar to desktop-style inkjet printers but on a much larger scale. Other large format printers use different techniques to achieve professional results on different types of surfaces and substrates.
See our post on How Flatbed Printing Works.
What Large Format Printing Can Be Used For
PRI Graphics offers specialized printing services for clients throughout Arizona. This type of specialized printing has many applications for both personal and professional use. Here are some examples of the Different Types of Printing possible:
- Large format banner printing for special events
- Large format poster printing and photo printing
- Printing trade show displays and graphics
- Printing vehicle wraps
- Large format wallpaper printing
- Printing window graphics
- Printing way-finding or environmental graphics
- Printing merchandise backdrops and POP displays
- Large format blueprint printing
- Printing architectural designs
- Construction Sign Printing
Generally speaking, printing is done on paper and cardboard materials but other printing materials may include foam board, PVC piping, metal, canvas, fabric, and other material types used for dramatic effect.
What are the Different Types of Wide Format Printing?
With so many different ways that larger prints can be utilized in professional and private environments, there are numerous printing types and ink types that are used to achieve the desired results.
Quality printing is usually achieved through aqueous ink transfer or non-water-based ink transfer processes:
1. Aqueous Ink Transfer Printing – Fade Resistant UV Ink
With aqueous ink transfer processes, dye or UV ink may be used to achieve beautiful results. UV ink is designed so that it will not fade when exposed to UV light, so it may be more suitable for use in outdoor applications. All aqueous printing projects must generally be coated so that the material holds onto the ink.
2. Non-Water-Based Ink Transfer Printing – Durable Results
Non-water-based ink transfer processes generally yield more durable results, but that can be odorous because they use solvents. Typically, solvents are used when non-paper products must be printed on. For example, glass and ceramics, metal, and wood are common materials used during this large format printing processes.
Our team of professional printers at PRI Graphics in Phoenix AZ can help you to determine which type of printing services can be most beneficial for your current needs. We employ a wide range of techniques for oversized printing to meet the unique needs of our clients, with quick turnaround times.
For more information on large format printing please contact us online, or call our Phoenix print shop Toll Free at 1-877-409-8889 to speak directly with our printing experts.
