Large Prints Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Large prints are a great way to decorate empty spaces on walls, whether it’s in your home or office. They add depth, texture and visual interest to a space, making it look complete and finished. However, the process of buying a large print can be daunting, especially for someone who is not familiar with the different types of prints or the various materials they are printed on. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about buying large prints, including the types of prints available, the different materials they can be printed on, and other considerations to keep in mind when choosing a print.

Types of Prints Available

Before we dive into the different materials that large prints can be printed on, let’s first take a look at the different types of prints available. There are four main types of prints:

1. Giclée prints – These are high-quality digital prints, often used for fine art reproductions. They are printed on archival paper or canvas with pigment-based inks that can last for up to 200 years. They are known for their color accuracy, detail, and vibrancy.
2. Lithographic prints – These are prints made using the lithography process, where an image is drawn onto a stone or plate with a greasy substance, then treated with chemicals to create the print. Lithographic prints are known for their ability to reproduce fine details, and are commonly used for posters, advertising, and fine art reproduction.
3. Screen prints – These are prints made by hand, where ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto a surface. Each color in the image requires a separate screen, and the process is repeated for each color. Screen prints are known for their vibrant colors and texture.
4. Digital prints – These are prints created using a digital file and printed on a large format printer. They are a popular choice for large format prints because they are cost-effective and can reproduce a wide range of colors.

When choosing a large print, it’s important to consider the type of print you want, as this will impact the quality and longevity of the print.

Materials Large Prints Can Be Printed On

Large prints can be printed on a variety of materials, depending on the desired look and feel of the print. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular materials:

Canvas

Canvas is a popular material for large prints, especially for those looking to create a more natural, organic look. Canvas prints are often used for fine art reproductions or as a way to showcase photographic prints. Canvas prints can be stretched over a frame, giving the print a gallery wrap effect, or they can be mounted on a board or foam core.

Paper

Paper is another popular choice for large prints, especially for those looking for a more polished, refined look. Printed on high-quality paper, large prints can be used to create stunning photographic prints, posters, or fine art reproductions. The type of paper used will impact the quality and longevity of the print, so it’s important to choose a paper that is archival and acid-free.

Aluminum

Aluminum prints are a modern and sleek option for large prints. The image is printed directly onto the aluminum surface, giving it a metallic finish that adds depth and dimension to the print. Aluminum prints are also durable and scratch-resistant, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas.

Acylic

Acrylic prints are similar to aluminum prints in that the image is printed directly onto the surface of the material. The image is then sandwiched between two pieces of acrylic, giving it a three-dimensional effect that makes it seem like the image is floating. Acrylic prints are also durable and scratch-resistant, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.

Plexiglass

Plexiglass prints are similar to acrylic prints, in that the image is printed directly onto the surface of the material. However, plexiglass prints are made of a harder, more durable material than acrylic prints, making them more resistant to scratches and cracking. Plexiglass prints are also less expensive than acrylic prints, making them a great option for those on a budget.

Wood

Wood prints are a great way to add a rustic, natural element to a space. The image is printed directly onto the wood surface, giving it a unique texture and character. Wood prints can be made on a variety of wood types, including birch, maple, and bamboo.

Considerations When Buying Large Prints

When buying a large print, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind:

Size

The size of the print will impact how it looks in a space, as well as the cost of the print. When choosing a size, think about the size of the wall it will be going on, as well as the other elements in the room.

Color

The color of the print is also an important consideration. Consider the color palette of the room, as well as any other artwork or decor in the space. Choose a print with colors that complement the space.

Style

The style of the print is another important consideration. Consider the overall style of the room, as well as any other artwork or decor in the space. Choose a print that complements the existing style of the space.

Frame

If you’re getting a canvas print, consider whether you want the print to be stretched over a frame or mounted on a board. A stretched canvas print will have a gallery wrap effect, while a mounted canvas print will be more polished and refined.

Conclusion

Large prints are a great way to add visual interest to a space, whether it’s in your home or office. When choosing a large print, consider the type of print you want, the material it will be printed on, as well as other key considerations like size, color, and style. With the right print, you can transform any space into a work of art.