Intermediate level · Module 4: Packaging, Signage and Merchandise · Lesson 2 of 3
Signage and Large Formats
Design banners and signs that are readable from a distance.
In this lesson you will
- Design for viewing distance
- Set resolution for large formats
Key concepts
viewing distancelarge-format resolutionminimal textmaterials
The lesson
Large formats are viewed from a distance, so text must be large and minimal: a name, one message and a contact.
Large prints need lower resolution at full size than small prints — often 100–150 pixels per inch — because they are seen from further away; check the printer's requirements.
Consider material and environment: outdoor banners face sun and rain; roll-up banners have a hidden bottom area.
Step by step
- Decide the viewing distance.
- Size the text accordingly.
- Set up the banner file.
- Check printer specifications.
How many pixels does a print need?
Working out image sizes for an A5 flyer and a roll-up banner.
| Item | Working | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| A5 flyer with 3 mm bleed: 154 × 216 mm at 300 ppi | 154 ÷ 25.4 × 300; 216 ÷ 25.4 × 300 | 1,819 × 2,551 px |
| Same flyer from a 72 ppi web image (148 × 210 mm) | 148 ÷ 25.4 × 72; 210 ÷ 25.4 × 72 | 420 × 595 px — too small |
| Roll-up banner 850 × 2,000 mm at 100 ppi | 850 ÷ 25.4 × 100; 2,000 ÷ 25.4 × 100 | 3,346 × 7,874 px |
Explanation
A photo downloaded at web size has about a quarter of the pixels needed in each direction for the flyer, so it would print blurred.
The banner is viewed from metres away, so 100 ppi at full size is usually enough — always confirm with the printer's specification.
Check your understanding
1 inch = 25.4 mm; 154 ÷ 25.4 = 6.06 inches × 300 = 1,819 px.
Practice activity
Design the roll-up banner.
Expected result: A readable banner file meeting the printer's specifications.
Check your understanding
-
Why can large formats use lower resolution?
Show answer
They are viewed from further away.
-
How much text should a banner have?
Show answer
As little as possible.
Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.