Preparing Files for Large Format Printing: A Software Guide

Blog Summary: Don’t want to spend all day preparing files for large format printing? Creating graphics on a grand scale like posters, banners, and signs is too intricate is time consuming process. Thus, use the large format printing software that makes your process easy and accurate. This guide will walk you through the essentials of file preparation using web-to-print software.

Large file printing is a booming sector in the print industry, driven by the growing demand for eye-catching visuals in advertising and public spaces. According to a recent report, the global large format printing market is projected to reach $10.4 billion by 2028, reflecting a robust annual growth rate of 5.0%.

As this market expands, the importance of preparing files for large format printing becomes increasingly critical for achieving high-quality results. Therefore, this is the right time for you to excel at large format printing workflow efficiency.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the essential steps for preparing your files for large format printing using OnPrintShop’s advanced web-to-print (W2P) software. We’ll cover everything from setting up document sizes and bleed margins to managing color modes and file formats.

Let’s get started on making your large format printing projects a success!

Understanding Large Format Printing Requirements

Large format printing is used for creating big graphics, such as posters, banners, and signs. Because of the scale involved, there are specific requirements and considerations to keep in mind, such as:

• size and resolution
• file format
• color management
• material and media
• bleed margins
• scaling and layout

However, an easy-to-use large format printing software is something that can simplify your job as the large format print service provider. If that ignites your curiosity, let’s discuss how to prepare your large printing files.

How to Prepare Files for Large Format Printing Using W2P Software

Preparing a file for large format printing projects is not easy if you do not use W2P software. You need to consider many variables, and the process might differ based on the project requirements. Thus, choosing the right large format printing software makes all the difference. And what could be better than the one from OnPrintShop.

So, here is how to prepare files for large format printing using all-new web-to-print software by OnPrintShop.

Set Up the Document Size and Bleed

The first step of file preparation for large format printing is to know the exact size of the print. Once you know the size, you need to set the size of the canvas in the software. You might face limitations with sizes in other software, but not with OnPrintShop’s W2P solution. It allows you to set custom sizes without any limitations.

While setting up the document size, make sure you set up the bleed too. Now what is bleed? It’s nothing but the extra space outside your printing area on the page that you are printing. It is common to have an alignment error of a few mm. That’s why it is a widespread practice to print a few mm wider than the original size.

Moreover, setting up the size of the large print file will help you estimate the print job too. And OnPrintShop’s rapid print estimating software gets you an estimate as soon as you feed the print size.

Choosing the Right Resolution

Once the size is fixed, you need to choose the right large format printing resolution. The resolution is usually 300 DPI for viewing the print from a close distance. Yes, the resolution of the print depends on the viewing distance. If the distance is greater than 1 meter, the DPI is reduced by one-third for every extra meter.

Reducing the resolution helps you manage the file by decreasing the file size on the disc.

Manage Color Mode and Gradients

Choosing colors is not as easy as it may seem. You need to calibrate your printer and your screen to match the output to what you see on the screen. So, make sure you are using CMYK whenever you are creating a digital file for printing. CMYK stands for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black.

Use the Right File Format

Every file format is meant to store a specific data type, and you need to pick the best file format for your data type to be printed. Make sure your web-to-print software supports the file format you want to upload. This is something you don’t have to worry about if you are using OnPrintShop’s W2P storefront, as it supports all the best file types for large format printing, such as JPEG, JPG, PNG, PDF, SVG, TIF, TIFF, formats.

Optimizing Images for Large Format Printing

To ensure top quality in large format printing, your large format printing file setup should include high-resolution images with at least 300 DPI. Use a robust wide format printing software to adjust image dimensions without losing clarity. OnPrintShop's custom W2P software simplifies this process with tools to resize, crop, and enhance images efficiently, ensuring they look sharp and professional when printed at any scale.

Include Fonts and Convert Text to Outlines

When you are preparing a file for large format printing projects, ensure all fonts are included or converted to outlines to prevent any text issues. This step avoids font substitutions and maintains text integrity. OnPrintShop's software provides a plethora of built-in fonts and allows you to upload your favorite ones, making it easy to achieve the perfect look for your design.

Review it Thoroughly

Before finalizing, your process of file preparation for large prints must include a thorough review. Verify all elements to avoid errors. Check image quality, text accuracy, and overall layout to ensure everything meets your standards.

Save a Copy to Print

Always save a copy specifically for printing. Ensure this version is in the correct format and resolution for your large format printing project. OnPrintShop’s sophisticated print shop workflow management software allows you to save and manage different versions of your files, making it easy to keep track of your print-ready copy and avoid any last-minute issues.

Consult with Your Print Provider

Consulting with your print provider is crucial to ensure your file meets their specifications. OnPrintShop is the best print provider option for you, offering expert advice and comprehensive support for all your large format printing needs. Their team can guide you through file requirements and help you optimize your design for the best results.

Choose OnPrintShop’s Large Format Printing Software for File PreparationChoosing a large format printing software is crucial to your business because your business success depends on it. The software you choose will either streamline your process or make it even more tiresome than it is. Thus, you should keep key points like customizability and scalability in mind while deciding.OnPrintShop offers one of the most customizable large format web-to-print software that allows you to not only upload the file, but pick a pre-designed template and edit it, or create your own design from scratch too.Moreover, OnPrintShop’s web-to-print solution supports your business expansion by supporting the best file format for large printing and lets you add as many products as you want in your store.So, what are you waiting for? Get a demo to see how the we2print software by OnPrintShop helps you prepare files for large format printing projects effortlessly.