How to Print and Handle Large Format Prints

Large format printing allows for the creation of crisp visual displays that break down complex information. These printers can bring highly detailed blueprints and displays to life. However, to achieve professional results, you need careful preparation, execution, and handling. The guide will walk you through the essential steps of how to print and handle large format prints.

The first step in how to print and handle large format prints is proper image preparation. The guidelines below will help you get this important step right.

The image format you choose can make or break your print. The most commonly recommended formats for printing from AutoCAD or other technical software include:

• DWG/DWF: The native AutoCAD formats ensure the highest quality output for technical drawings, maintaining precise line weights and accurate scaling.
• PLT/HPGL (HP Graphics Language): A plotter-specific format that's excellent for vector-based CAD drawings, PLT/HPGL preserves crisp lines and accurate dimensions.
• PDF (Portable Document Format): If your AutoCAD plots have been converted to PDF and the original files aren't available, most plotters can also handle this format.

A richly detailed image on your screen might look blurry when printed—or even leave vital lines and graphics out. This is especially true for large-scale printing, where the resolution must stretch further. The ideal resolution depends on viewing distance, and knowing how to print and handle large format prints means knowing which resolutions are best.

Smaller prints, like simple diagrams, should aim for 300 pixels per inch (PPI) for the best fidelity. But larger blueprints, which are typically viewed from further away, can get away with as low as 150 PPI.

The final step of preparing images for large format printing is to ensure your colour is as accurate as possible. The tips below will keep your colours consistent with what you expect:

• Use the appropriate colour profile: Use CMYK colour space for print projects. It more accurately represents how colours will appear on paper.
• Calibrate your monitor: Regularly calibrate your monitor to ensure consistent colours every time you work on a file.
• Soft proof your images: Soft proofing tools in your editor can mimic the colour of a specific printer and paper combination. Use them before printing.
• Create test prints: Print a scaled-down version of your design to confirm colour accuracy before printing the final product.

With the images prepared, it's time to move on to how to print and handle large format prints themselves. We discuss several best practices below to help you maximise the quality of your large format prints.

Quality prints require a quality printer, such as the HP DesignJet series. When choosing a printer, consider the following factors:

• Print size capabilities: Ensure the printer can handle the sizes you need.
• Print quality: Look for printers with high resolution and colour accuracy.
• Media compatibility: Choose a printer that supports the materials you'll be printing on.
• Production speed: Consider the print speed if you'll be printing at high volumes.

Your printer's settings have a big impact on the final quality. Match the following settings to the type of print you'll be making.

• Print quality: Most printers offer draft, normal, or high-quality settings based on your requirements.
• Colour settings: Adjust the colour balance, saturation, and contrast to match your desired output.
• Paper profile: Select the paper profile that matches the media you'll be printing on.
• Print resolution: Match the printer's resolution to your image resolution to get the best quality.

There are a few common mistakes in most processes for how to print and handle large format prints that should be mentioned. Avoiding these will improve the quality of your prints.

• Incorrect scaling: Setting the image to the wrong scale can result in pixelation and distortion.
• Inadequate bleed: Including a bleed area (usually 0.125 to 0.25 inches) will prevent white edges when trimming.
• Poor file preparation: Check your file for spelling errors, missing elements, or poor image resolution before printing.
• Ignoring printer maintenance: A printer that isn't regularly cleaned will develop print-quality issues.

An often overlooked aspect of how to print and handle large format prints is what happens after the printing is done. Here are some tips to handle and store your prints in a way that preserves the quality.

• Wear clean, lint-free gloves to keep contaminants on your hands off the print.
• Use both hands to support the print from underneath. Get help for larger prints.
• Keep the print flat or gently rolled to avoid bending or creasing.

• Use acid-free tissue paper to separate prints when stacking.
• Store flat prints in archival-quality portfolios or flat files.
• Use sturdy tubes with end caps to prevent dust and damage to rolled prints.
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.

• Store prints in a cool, dry environment with stable temperature and humidity levels.
• Use quality storage materials for long-term use, including acid-free boxes and folders.
• Regularly check stored prints for signs of damage or degradation.

HP's large format plotter and graphics printers bring the company's expertise and quality to fulfil larger printing needs. Below are some of the standout features HP provides users of our printers.

• Automatic media loading systems to reduce setup time and prevent misfeeds.
• Support for PostScript/PDF, providing direct, high-quality CAD and technical document printing.
• Print resolution up to 2400 x 1200 dpi for precision line accuracy and detail rendering.
• User-friendly interfaces and software for simplified operation and workflow management.

HP DesignJet printers incorporate cutting-edge technologies for enhanced print quality. Consider:

• HP Thermal Inkjet: Precise droplet placement for sharp details
• HP Bright Office Inks: Vibrant colours on plain and glossy papers
• HP Professional PANTONE Emulation: Accurate colour-matching capabilities
• Automatic nozzle replacement: Ensures consistent print quality

The emergence of large format printers has revolutionised the way organisations present information, allowing them to do more in-house production for faster turnaround and cost savings. However, this format brings with it unique challenges. By following the guidelines in this article, you'll be well on your way to producing professional-quality prints. Then, practice and experience will get you the rest of the way there.

The HP DesignJet series of printers can aid you in that journey, providing you with a reliable tool that helps you get the most out of your prints while giving you the advanced features to fine-tune prints to your specific needs. As you gain experience and refine your techniques, you'll discover the immense potential of large format printing to bring your creative visions to life on a grand scale.