Large format graphics can be hard to get right. They must be easy to read from a distance, with fonts and imagery that showcase your brand. Getting them just so also takes some imagination, and you’ll need to think past the screen and consider how they might look in the real world. That’s easier said than done, so where should you even start?
Read on for tips on how to create a bold, effective large format print design that potential customers will love – without falling into the common traps.
1. Think big and bold
When it comes to large format graphics, size really does matter – but it’s not just about making things huge for the sake of it. You’re designing for people who may just be walking past your artwork, and only glancing for a second.
It’s best to prioritise large, legible text and clear visuals that tell your story in three seconds or less.
If someone has to stop what they’re doing to understand your large format design, you’ve already lost them. And of course, tiny text simply won’t work for busy locations!
2. One strong, focused message
In large format print design, less is often more, and one powerful idea or call-to-action will always trump a wall of competing messages. That’s why you should pick one focal point and make that the hero! This applies whether you’re designing a sign, banner, poster, or standee.
Your audience won’t have time to unravel five instructions or decode a whole gallery of pictures. So, select your best and go with that!
3. Guide the eye with hierarchy
Decide what you want the reader to see first, second and third. Start with a hero image or headline, followed by a line of text explaining what’s on offer, whether it’s a deal, product, or service.
In our experience, you should consider the size of your elements in descending order, contrasting them with the background so nothing’s lost. No confusion – just a large format print design that makes it easy for people to get invested... and involved.
4. Pick colours that stand out
Your palette should align with your brand identity, evoke the right emotions, and appeal to your target audience.
Here are some things to consider:
- Low-contrast or natural tones can make text hard to read
- An intense colour palette may appear overwhelming
- Too many colours can make your design look messy
- You can replace colours or insert patterns for the time of year
- Colour blind viewers can struggle with some combinations (e.g. red and green)
For large format graphics, use your branded colours as a throughline for consistency – with strong contrast so your design commands attention.
5. Give your design elements room to breathe
Negative space is often overlooked, but it’s one of the best ways to get your message seen! Good spacing frames your key elements, but all too often, people worry that too much space will make things overly simple.
In reality, large format graphics need to grab attention quickly, and often around competing designs. Many brands forget about this principle and fill their designs with clutter, so ensure yours stands out by including negative space rather than trying to fill the void.
6. Design for the environment
Lighting can affect how your design looks when it’s displayed.
For instance, finer details could be tough to read under low indoor lighting, just as a glossy finish could cause glare on a bright summer’s day. Colour can also be affected; your design may blend into the background if you've designed for a green space and gone with natural tones.
Placement also matters. A banner seen from below may need a different approach to a poster viewed from eye level, or floor graphics to be walked on.
By designing for the environment, you create a print that works in real life and not just a screen.
7. Choose images that scale up
Not every photo will work for your print. A shot that looks sharp on your phone can become a blurry mess when resized for a billboard. Choosing the right assets ensures your large format design is crisp, clear, and visually appealing.
- Use high-resolution photos to avoid pixelation
- Keep logos and illustrations in vector format for easy resizing
- Avoid images with very fine details that disappear at a distance
- Pick strong, simple visuals that clearly support your text
The bottom line? In large format print design, clarity beats complexity every time. High-quality visuals will keep your message sharp and your design effective.
8. Make shape and material part of the design
Curves, transparencies, and textures can enhance your design when used thoughtfully. Acrylic, for example, can be partially backed in white so parts of your design are transparent (see our guide to reverse printing acrylic here) – which can be great for a unique floating effect.
Different materials interact with ink (and light) in unique ways, so when designing for large format print, consider how your material's shape, texture and finish will influence what people see.
9. Add depth for extra impact
Your graphics can be more than just ink on a surface. By adding depth, through layering, 3D elements, or textured finishes, you can create a truly memorable design.
This doesn’t have to be overly expensive or complex. Even simple raised lettering or shadow effects can transform a large format print design into something more dynamic. Depth draws people in, so it’s worth talking to your large format print supplier about the options available.
10. Try the FREE design tool in our online store
At Raccoon, we make it easy to get the printed products you need. If you have a large and complex printing project in mind, click here to start your enquiry and arrange a discovery call.
Otherwise, visit our branding store to customise everything from stickers, posters and banners to rigid media boards and beyond. With our FREE online design tool, you can create anything you need at the right size, or simply upload an existing artwork.
