Printing has come a long way since the days of Gutenberg and his movable type press. Today, various printing options are available to suit a wide range of needs. One type of printing that has seen a resurgence in recent years is long format printing. Long format printing is ideal for diverse applications, from banner printing to indoor and outdoor signage.
If you’re in the market for large format printing in NYC, contact Mega Format.
Printing documents in long format can be challenging, but with the right settings, it’s easy to do. This blog post will cover everything you need to know about printing documents in long format, from the paper size to the orientation.
1. Paper Size
The paper size is the first thing you need to know about printing documents in long format. The most common paper sizes for long format printing are 11″ x 17″ and 18″ x 24″. These sizes are generally used for banner printing, and indoor and outdoor signage. If you’re unsure which paper size to use, it’s best to consult your printer or graphic designer.
2. Printer Settings
Once you’ve selected the correct paper size, your printing service provider will adjust their printer according to your preferences. These settings may include choosing the right paper stock and switching between full color or black & white printing options. This ensures that your labels are printed perfectly on the first page itself, preventing any failures in your creation! Finally, your provider will produce a physical proof for you to approve.
3. Orientation
You can choose between portrait and landscape orientation when printing in a long format. Portrait orientation is when the document is printed vertically, while landscape orientation is when the document is printed horizontally. Landscape orientation is generally used for banner printing, while portrait orientation is more common for indoor signage. Your orientation selection will affect your banner size options and may restrict the sizes you can use for your project.
4. File Format
When sending your file to a printing service provider, it’s important to use the correct file format. The most common file formats for long-format printing are PDF and EPS. PDFs are universally accepted and can be opened on any computer with a PDF reader, no matter what operating system is used. EPS files allow for more sophisticated printing techniques to be implemented and tend to be the preferred format for lithographic printing.
However, service providers must have Adobe Illustrator installed on their computers to open and view an EPS file.
Filename: Printed-documents
Alt Text: An illustration of self-adhesive vinyl printing
Printing documents in long format can be a great way to get noticed. We specialize in long-format printing for documents, retractable banners, large wall decals, custom wall coverings, portable trade show displays, and more! For more information on printing in long format, contact us today.
