Allegra Design/Print/Mail

Full-color signs, posters and banners are great for marketing and promotional campaigns. Thanks to new digital color printing technology, more businesses and organizations can afford these high-impact tools. Large format printing can really grab customers at point-of-purchase, trade shows, fundraisers, meetings and events.

“However, not all large print communications are created equal. It is best to consult with your print communications professional for recommendations on getting the most from your investment,” says Ted Stein, president of Allegra Design/Print/Mail.

Design for Impact: To determine the best size, consider several factors. First, consider your message and your audience. Second, carefully review where the piece will be placed. While bigger is usually better, it could overpower. Use paper mock-ups to gauge size. To determine placement, consider how people will move past it and where to best capture their attention.

Color is key to break through clutter but should be consistent with other marketing material. Virtually any photo or graphic file can be enlarged to size. The best visuals contain a strong central focal point as opposed to many elements. Also, choose simple, easy-to-read type styles and avoid those that are ornamental or in script.

Consult with an Expert: New digital color printing technology has created new materials and techniques for producing large format. Your print professional will make your decisions easy: How long will your piece be used? Inside or outside? Budget?

Determining where the piece will be displayed and length of use helps dictate the material on which it will be printed. Outdoor banners are almost always created on vinyl and signs adhered to painted plywood, coroplast or aluminum. Indoor signs can be mounted on gator board for short-term use. Other considerations like sun or light exposure can dictate the best printing process and substrate. Also, consider canvas, silk and backlighting to maximize impact.

Ted Stein is the owner of Allegra in Providence. Stein has been consulting businesses in print communications and other promotional tools for more than 20 years.

Allegra Design/Print/Mail
102 Waterman Street, Providence
421-5160