The Large Format Print Process Explained: What to Expect with Active Print Services

Want your business to command attention this summer? Whether you're preparing for an exhibition or launching a poster campaign, high-quality visuals can command attention. When combined with a larger format, they can make a big impression.

At Active Print Services, based in Camberley, Surrey, our products include large format prints that not only look exceptional but also deliver results.

If you want to know how our team helps you produce stunning materials, here’s an exploration of the process!

What Is Large Format Printing?

Large format printing, often called ‘wide format printing’, is used to produce materials that are too big for standard commercial printers. These include posters, banners, roller banners, window graphics, wall murals, signage, and pop-up displays.

Such materials are fantastic for representing your brand in a big way.

Why Choose Active Print Services?

At Active Print Services, we combine cutting-edge print technology and a highly trained team committed to fast, professional results. We serve clients across Frimley, Camberley, Farnborough, Woking, Guildford, Farnham and nearby areas, offering free delivery within a 10-mile radius.

We’re renowned for:

• High quality results, fast
• Competitive pricing
• Friendly, expert advice
• Buildings excellent relationships with our clients

Most of our work comes from repeat customers and word-of-mouth referrals.

Step-by-Step: The Large Format Print Process

1. Understanding Your Needs

We kick things off with a conversation to understand exactly what you need. Whether you need to attract more people to your retail store or make an impact at a trade show, we’re here to make it happen.

Our team will also need to know:

• Will the print be used indoors or outdoors?
• What size and format do you need?
• Do you have artwork ready, or do you need design support?

This helps us recommend the most suitable materials, finishes and formatting.

2. Artwork and Design Support

Don’t have artwork? Don’t panic!

Our in-house team can create stunning designs that align with your brand and marketing goals. If you already have print-ready artwork, we’ll run pre-flight checks to make sure everything is set up correctly. This includes checking image resolution, bleed, colour profiles, and layout integrity.

Remember, poor artwork can ruin a good print job. That’s why we take the design stage seriously.

3. Material and Print Method Selection

Large format printing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your needs, we’ll guide you through choosing the right material:

• Vinyl – Great for banners, window graphics, and outdoor signage
• Paper – Ideal for posters and indoor displays
• Fabric – Often used for exhibition backdrops and flags
• Foamex, Dibond, or Correx boards – Popular for rigid signs and displays

We also select the best printing method for your needs, whether that’s UV printing, solvent-based, or latex-based inks.

4. Proofing and Approval

Before we actually print, we give you a sample. This allows you to review the layout, colours and text to ensure everything looks exactly how you want it.

Only once you’ve approved the proof do we proceed with final printing.

5. Production and Finishing

Once approved, we get to work. Our advanced large format printers can handle high volumes and tight deadlines without compromising on quality.

We also offer a range of finishing options to ensure your prints are ready for use:

• Laminating for protection and durability
• Eyelets for banners
• Mounting on boards
• Cutting to custom shapes and sizes
• Roller banner mechanisms and pop-up hardware

Need multiple versions? That’s also no problem. We can easily customise prints across different locations, sizes and layouts.

6. Delivery or Collection

We offer free delivery within 10 miles of Camberley, where we’re based. Our services are therefore popular with local businesses in Frimley, Farnborough, Woking, Guildford, Farnham and surrounding areas. Alternatively, you can collect your order directly from us.

Common Large Format Projects We Handle

Here are just a few ways businesses use our large format print service:

• Roller Banners – Ideal for events, trade shows and reception areas
• Outdoor Banners – Weatherproof advertising that stands out
• Posters – Fast and cost-effective promotions
• Exhibition Graphics – Pop-up displays, backdrops, and signage
• Window and Wall Graphics – Transform spaces with branded visuals
• Retail Point-of-Sale Displays – Capture attention at the checkout

Whether you run a small business, a school or a public sector organisation, we’ll help you make an impact.

Why Having Local Printers Makes a Difference

Choosing a local printer like Active Print Services means quicker results and having a team nearby you can rely on. We also know the local business landscape and understand what works for Surrey-based businesses. From our central location in Camberley, we’re ideally placed to support campaigns across the region.

Get a Quote Today

If you’re planning a project and need high-quality large format printing with fast turnaround and expert support, Active Print Services is here to help. Whether it’s a one-off poster or a full exhibition setup, we’ll deliver on time and on budget.

Let us help you bring your project to life this summer.