Banner Printing Techniques

Banner printing comes with a specific set of considerations most marketing materials don't have. Banner marketing logistics extend far beyond those of traditional brochures and postcards, so you have to exercise proper planning to ensure your banner marketing efforts transfer from the screen to the banner seamlessly. Incorporate these large banner printing techniques before you go to press to ensure the best possible banner production for your money:

Material and ink

Banners should be both great looking and durable, which is why 13-ounce matte white vinyl is an excellent choice for your banner material. For windy applications, a 9-ounce mesh vinyl will prevent your banner from being torn and still retain the high-quality appearance of vinyl. Large format backdrops used for theatrical productions should be self extinguishing and flame resistant, and conform to National Fire Protection Association standards, which is why non-reflective NFPA-compliant canvas is a great choice for such applications. For banner longevity, 3M solvent-based UV-cured inks are fade resistant for years of reuse, making banner printing easy on the budget and excellent for long-term return on investment.

Finishing/hanging

Depending on your banner usage, you should choose between a hem and grommet finish or a pole pocket finish. Hem and grommets let you tie down your banner so it stays put with minimal effort. For a classier look, pole pockets allow you to slide your banner over poles for street-side holiday banners, indoor overheads and campus applications.

Don't forget bleeds and safety area

Make sure you follow your printer's guidelines for bleeds and safety area so your banner comes off the press looking as great as it does on your computer screen. The last thing you want is for important information to be cut off, or an unintended white border along one side of your banner.

Order in volume

If you're going to be using the same banner in more than one place at the same time, order in bulk to reduce your price per banner. This is especially relevant to campuses and cities that hang dozens or even hundreds of the same banners throughout their respective territories on a seasonal basis.

Check your proof

Unlike many print advertising mediums, you're not going to get a hardcopy proof for your banner. Instead, your printer will offer an electronic proof. Make sure you check it carefully for any mistakes in text, imagery or colors before going to press. Banner printing is an excellent way to get your message out to a large audience in short time. You want to leave the best impression possible, so follow these banner printing techniques to make sure you get it right the first time around.