Your Best Large Format Printing Company for Custom Signs & Graphics

Last Updated on December 27, 2022 by Carlos Alonso

Why Catdi Printing is the Best Large Format Printing Company

Catdi Printing is a nationwide large format printing company where businesses can take advantage of our years of experience in color accuracy, detail, and durability. We offer a variety of services that are tailored to meet the needs of our customers. Catdi Printing has a quick turnaround time and can ship across the United States. We also offer a range of services outside large format printing for all small business needs, such as direct mail printing and mailing, web design, and digital and offset print and graphic design services.

Catdi Printing prides ourselves with being one of the best large format printing companies because we are very efficient in our work. We work hard at great customer service and always try to make it right when on a rare occasion a problem arises. In addition, Catdi Printing has a wide selection of templates and provides many services and products that can help with your project.

The most frequent large format signs we execute are premium-quality, sharp, high-resolution images and text that are clearly viewable at any distance on banners and window decals. But, we can do just about anything!! Give Catdi Printing a call today to chat about your project. Catdi Printing can produce beautiful large displays that are sure to capture the attention of potential customers.

What is Large-format Printing?

Materials

Large-format printing or large scale printing refers to print materials that are too large to be printed on regular commercial printers. Large-format printers can manage materials from 24 inches to 16 feet in width by almost any length. A large-format printer is a type of printer that can handle wide varieties of materials. These materials are called substrates. Some examples of substrates include: paper, vinyl, glass, aluminum, fabric, styrene, canvas, foam-centered materials, wood, and textiles. The substrate you select will depend on the project you are working on.

Some factors to consider when selecting a substrate include:

– What the final product will be used for

– If the product needs to be durable

– What kind of look you are going for

– If you need the product to be weather resistant

Catdi Printing can help you determine what substrate would be best for your project.

Location (exterior vs interior)

Large-format printing can be used for both exterior and interior locations. Large-format printing is best suited for promoting on the exterior of a business, but there are some applications of large format printing that works well inside too.

Shelf Life

The period of time a product will need to be in place will factor into the material selection. If it will be up only for a short time, such as an announcement for an event, gator board may be appropriate. However, if installed for a longer period of time, a more durable substrate like expanded PVC may be necessary.

Installation

Installation of large-format prints can be difficult because of the size of the prints. The installation process often requires special tools and equipment to properly install the print. Large-format prints are often installed by professional installers who have the necessary tools and experience to properly install the print. Catdi Printing can provide installation services in the Houston Metro area.

Benefits of Large Format Printing

Large format printing offers many benefits for businesses looking to create custom signs, graphics, and displays. Some of the key benefits of large format printing include:

– Vast print area – Large format printing offers a much larger print area than standard printers, allowing you to create more impactful graphics and messages.

– Durability – Large format prints are much more durable than other types of prints, making them ideal for displays that will be exposed to harsh conditions.

– Attention-grabbing – Large format prints are very attention-grabbing, making them a great way to stand out from the competition.

– Custom sizes and shapes – With large format printing, you can order custom sizes and shapes to really make your display materials pop.

– Consistent quality – Large format printing is very consistent, meaning you’ll get high-quality prints every time you order.

– Cost effective – Large format printing is surprisingly cost-effective compared to other print methods, making it a great option for businesses on a budget.

Types of Printers

A large format digital printer is a type of computer-controlled printer that can accept output from a computer and create posters, banners, and other large prints that vary in size and type. These printers can print on a variety of substrates, including paper, vinyl, fabric, and film. Each type of printers comes with its own advantages and drawbacks. Some common types of large format printers include:

– Dye sublimation printers

– UV flatbed printers

– Latex printers

– Eco solvent printers

Dye sublimation printers are the most expensive type of large format printer, creating very high quality prints. UV flatbed printers are less expensive than dye sublimation printers and still have great quality. They are the most versatile printers, being able to print on a wide variety of materials including PVC, ABS, PET, glass, metal, and wood. UV printed items are also very durable. Due to the drying process the sign will have a matte look with UV flatbed printing. Latex printers are less expensive than UV flatbed printers, and they produce prints that are resistant to water and sunlight. Eco solvent printers are the least expensive type of large format printer. While eco solvent prints are still durable and scratch resistant, they are not as durable as those from other types of large format printers. When printing with Catdi Printing you have the option of all 4 types of printers and knowledgeable staff to help you decide which best suits your needs for durability and quality!

The Production Process

Designing for A Large Format Print

When designing for a large format print, it is important to keep in mind that the final product will be viewed from a distance. This means that using imagery or bold, high contrast topography are the most effective in getting the message across quickly to people viewing the material from afar. Catdi Printing uses the Pantone matching system which uses standardized colors to ensure consistency.

Resolution and File Requirements

The standard resolution for large-format printing is 300 DPI. This high resolution is necessary to produce high quality products. To ensure the production process results in a high quality product, it must be followed meticulously.

Printing

After final approval of the graphic file, the document is sent to the printer memory. The printing process begins when the substrate is placed in a roll-to-roll printer. If the substrate is rigid, a flatbed printer will be used to support it; for round or cylindrical items, a hybrid printer can be utilized.

The printheads contain injectors, tiny holes which release ink in the right amount onto the substrate as the printheads travel over it in horizontal strips; the more passes the printheads make, the greater the definition.

The printheads use one motor to move laterally and, for roll-to-roll printers, one to move the substrate in vertical steps. The printheads continue to move until the data in the memory is finished transmitting and the work is complete.

Drying

Drying is an important step in the production process because it prevents shrinking, peeling, and adhesive transfer. The ink must be dried in order to prevent these issues. The drying time can vary significantly depending on a number of factors including:

– The type of ink used,

– The brand of ink,

– The amount of ink,

– The temperature and humidity levels, and

– The surface porosity.

These factors all affect how long it will take for the ink to dry.

Finishing

The finishing process can involve preparation for installation. This may include the installation of grommets for hanging, or the sewing or welding of a rigid rod into the product. Stands, special enclosures, and frames are other installation tools that can be placed onto the product.

Our printing solutions include:

Catdi Printing’s team of experts will work with you to create the perfect print for your needs. With years of experience in the industry, Catdi Printing is the best choice for all your large format printing needs. Catdi Printing produces high-quality large format prints for a variety of applications, including:

1. Trade Show & Event Graphics

Catdi Printing offers high quality trade show graphics that will help you create a memorable experience for your attendees. Trade show graphics can be used to market your brand to new audiences, create an immersive experience for your attendees, and create a memorable event for your company. Catdi Printing offers a variety of styles and formats for trade show graphics that are easy to transport and cost-effective to use.

2. Wall Coverings

Wall coverings are a unique way to add personality to any space. Wall coverings are a cost-effective marketing tactic that can help businesses stand out from the competition.

3. Banners

Banners are an effective way to market your brand both indoors and outdoors. Your design options are endless with our large format printing services! We can print single or double-sided banners, backdrop banners, retractable displays and more.

4. Window Decals

Window decals are a great way to protect privacy and achieve branding goals. They can be used for a variety of applications, such as retail signage and construction graphics. Window decals are durable and weatherproof. They are available in a variety of colors and sizes and can be customized to fit any environment or customer needs.

5. Acrylic Signs

Acrylic signs are perfect for any business or organization looking to present a sterling reputation. They are durable and can be customized to look like you want them to. Acrylic signs are perfect for displaying information such as company logos and slogans. They can be printed in a range of colors and sizes. Acrylic signs are easy to hang and can be customized to fit your specific needs.

6. Interior Signs

Interior signs are a great way to increase brand awareness and make a good first impression on customers and clients. With so many options available, Catdi Printing can help you find the perfect sign solution for your business. Catdi Printing can create branded, attention-grabbing signage for lobbies and other interior areas of your facility. Catdi Printing has a variety of PVC, acrylic, foam and custom options for signage.

7. PVC Signs

PVC signs are versatile and can be used for both indoor and outdoor use. They’re rigid and lightweight making them good for both temporary outdoor use and indoor use. They’re hard to miss and easy to install making them a low cost, high impact branding option.

Ready to get started creating promotional materials that pack a punch?

When it comes to large format printing companies, there are a lot of options available. But when you need large format prints that look great and meet your specific needs, you need to call on Catdi Printing. We offer custom signs, graphics, and displays for offices, businesses, schools, and churches—and we can do it in a variety of sizes. From signage for small spaces to wall murals for corporate campuses, we have the perfect solution for you.

Plus, our team is experienced and reliable—so you can rest assured knowing that your prints will arrive on time and in excellent condition. So if you’re looking for an expert in large format printing who delivers top-quality results at a fair price, contact us today!