How to Prepare a Design for Large Scale Print: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to large scale printing, whether it's for billboards, hoarding panels, banners, or signage , a beautiful design means nothing if it’s not prepared properly for print. Imagine seeing your high-res design turn out blurry or cropped at the edges. Painful, right?

To help you avoid that, here’s a complete guide on how to prepare your design for large format printing, the right way.

 

Uniqlo retail brand hoarding graphics printed and installed in Manchester

 1. Know Your Final Output Size

Before you open your design software, get the exact dimensions of your final print. Is it a 10ft x 4ft hoarding? A 6-panel construction board? Knowing this helps you:

  • Set your artboard to scale
  • Avoid resizing issues later
  • Ensure layout consistency if it spans multiple panels

💡 Tip: Always confirm whether the printer needs the artwork in one full piece or split into sections.

 

Businessman working on a laptop


2. Set Up Your Design File Correctly

Whether you're using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or InDesign, follow these best practices:

  • Resolution: 150 dpi at full size (or 300 dpi at 50% scale)
  • Color Mode: CMYK (not RGB)
  • Bleed: Add 10–20mm bleed to all sides
  • Safe Margin: Keep critical elements (text, logos) at least 50mm away from edge

💡 Tip: Using vector graphics wherever possible ensures clean, scalable quality without pixelation.


3. Use High-Resolution Images

Low-quality images are your biggest enemy in large format printing. Always use:

  • Images with at least 150 dpi at final print size
  • Stock photos from trusted sources (avoid screenshots!)
  • Smart Objects in Photoshop to maintain quality when scaling

💡 Tip: If you must scale an image up, try AI tools like Upscale.media or Remini for quick quality enhancement.

KM 21.1 NKVE Highway - Petaling Jaya Static Billboard (OOH) Unipole Selangor, KL, Malaysia Billboard Company, Static Billboard | Seni Jaya Corporation Berhad


4. Design for Distance

Large format prints are usually viewed from afar. Keep that in mind:

  • Use bold fonts
  • Avoid tiny text
  • Stick to high contrast color combinations
  • Keep layouts clean and uncluttered

💡 Goal: Make sure your key message is visible from 3–5 meters away (or more).

 

Tealive Launches 'Oppa Approved' K-Coffee in Malaysia | Branding in Asia

 

 5. Export a Print-Ready File

Once your design is ready, it’s time to export it for print. Use the following settings:

  • File Type: PDF is preferred
  • Embed or outline all fonts
  • Include crop marks and bleed
  • Keep a backup in the original file format (AI, PSD, or INDD)

💡Pro Tip: Send your printer a low-res JPEG preview as well so they can cross-check layout and content before printing.

 

✅ Final Checklist Before Sending to Printer

Correct size and resolution?

Bleed added and safe margins checked?

Images high-res and embedded?

Fonts outlined or embedded?

CMYK color mode used?

File exported as print-ready PDF?

Preparing a design for large scale print isn’t just about visuals! It’s about technical accuracy and print-readiness.
By following the steps above, you’ll save time, avoid costly reprints, and ensure your design looks stunning at any size.

Whether you're working on a hoarding design, banner, or billboard, these tips will help you deliver professional, pixel-perfect results every time.

 

Need help with your hoarding or billboard design?

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