Ten common errors made with large format prints

Large format prints are often a key component of a stand’s overall communications tactics. Graphical design and presentation errors can be detrimental to your efforts. Expoformer, a Swedish presentation and stand-systems specialist, has summarised ten common errors and provides concrete advice on how you can get the job done properly.

Error 1: Too much text

A large format print displays words. Additional explanations ought to be provided verbally. Keep in mind that a visitor should grasp your message in 3 seconds at most.

Error 2: The wrong text

“What’s in it for me?”. That’s the mind-set of the visitor who’s looking at your print. If the benefit is not clearly indicated, then your text is all wrong.

Error 3: The font size is too small

The letters should be at least 10 centimetres (4 inches) high. As a general rule of thumb, for every additional metre (40 inches/3.3 feet) between the graphic and the onlooker, the letter height needs to be raised by 2.5 centimetres (1 inch). So if your text needs to be readable from 6 metres (20 feet) away, your letters should be at least 15 centimetres (6 inches) high.

Error 4: Badly readable font types

Expoformer’s guiding principle is: only use Serif or Sans Serif fonts and never use more than two different fonts. The number of appropriate letter types is debatable but you should, in all cases, avoid using arty and barely legible letter types.

Error 5: Confusing backgrounds

Stick to light letters on dark backgrounds or dark letters on light backgrounds. You need lots of contrast between the letters and the background colouring. Good choices for lettering are black, dark blue and dark green on a light background of a white, light yellow or light blue colour (or vice versa).

Error 6: Text placed outside the view zone

Text needs to be placed in the top 60 centimetres of the graphic. Take the end application and the positioning of the large format print into account. You should prevent other stand elements from obstructing a clear view of the graphic’s more communicative elements.

Error 7: Too many images

Opt for one image that looks great from 9 metres (30 feet) away. The image should grab one’s attention and also be communicative about your brand or product. What you want is for visitors to stop and read the message.

Error 8: Poor image quality

Only use high-resolution images. No good can come from poor image material. Avoid using images with less than 4000 pixels and make sure to obtain suitable image material on time.

Error 9: Bad lighting

Place a light source every 60 to 90 centimetres (2 to 3 feet).  Preferably, 100 to 200 watt halogen light bulbs placed 50 to 60 centimetres (1.5 to 2 feet) away from the graphic itself. Make sure that the whole display is well lit. Lighting from above is preferable seeing as it results in a smoother looking image.

Error 10: Damage

Accidents, knocks, crushing…are pretty much unavoidable. But you can make sure that mishaps don’t lead to irreparable tears, scratches or fold marks.  Laminate your large format print in order to better protect it against damage. A golden rule is to always let someone help you handle the print; damage often occurs when people decide to hang up/take down/wrap up the print on their own. Always pack the print with care; wrap it with plastic or paper before rolling it up and don’t stuff/squish it into its case. The print (and its fastening devices) needs to be cleaned; a standard multi-purpose cleaner should do the trick but be careful around the edges because you don’t want to damage the layer of laminate.