Large Format Print: Banners, Signage and Exhibition Displays Explained
Large format print covers everything from a small window sticker to a 6-metre outdoor banner. The right material, resolution and finish depend on distance, environment and how long the print needs to last. Here is the short version.
Banners: PVC, mesh or fabric
440gsm PVC banners are the workhorse for outdoor use — waterproof, eyeleted and good for 1 to 2 years outside.
Mesh banners let wind pass through, making them the safer choice on scaffolding and fenced sites.
Fabric banners give a premium indoor look for shop launches, exhibitions and photography backdrops.
Roller banners and pop-up stands
A standard 850mm x 2000mm roller banner is our best-selling exhibition item — light, cassette-protected and reusable across events.
For larger footprints, curved and straight pop-up stands from 3m to 6m create a fully branded backdrop.
Rigid signage: Foamex, Dibond and acrylic
5mm Foamex is our default for interior signage and short-term exterior use.
3mm Dibond (aluminium composite) is the go-to for long-life outdoor signs, van boards and shop fascias.
Acrylic gives a premium reception look, especially with stand-off fixings and a printed second-surface graphic.
Artwork specs that avoid pixelation
Design at 25 percent scale at 300dpi, or full size at 100dpi. Both produce sharp print at normal viewing distance.
Supply as press-ready PDF with 3mm bleed and fonts outlined. Vector logos scale cleanly to any size.
Frequently asked questions
- How long do outdoor banners last?
- A standard 440gsm PVC banner lasts 12 to 24 months outdoors in UK conditions. Regular removal in winter extends life significantly.
- Can you produce next-day banners?
- Yes — Fordingbridge Print offers next-working-day PVC banners on orders placed with print-ready artwork before 11am.
- Do you install signage?
- We install shop fascias, wayfinding and reception signage across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire. Nationwide install is available on request.