From A3 notices to full-colour A0 displays, poster printing scales your design up without losing the sharpness that makes it readable across a room.
A poster earns attention in a single glance. Whether it promotes an event, a sale or a message, size and colour do the heavy lifting. This guide looks specifically at A Complete Guide to Poster and Colour Printing and what to consider before you place an order.
Key options and materials
Getting the specification right is half the job. The choices below have the biggest impact on how the finished piece looks and lasts:
- Photo and synthetic stocks — for indoor display or short outdoor use.
- A3, A2, A1 and A0 — from desk notices to large wall displays.
- Matte finish — glare-free and easy to read under bright lights.
- Gloss finish — punchy colour that grabs attention.
- Satin finish — a balance of vividness and low glare.
How to compare your choices
| Size | Dimensions | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| A3 | 297 × 420 mm | Notices, shop signage |
| A2 | 420 × 594 mm | Event promotion |
| A1 | 594 × 841 mm | Retail displays |
| A0 | 841 × 1189 mm | Large wall displays |
Practical tips for a better result
- Design at full size or to scale at 150 dpi so large prints stay sharp.
- Use large, bold headlines readable from several metres away.
- Keep strong colour contrast between text and background.
- Choose matte for glass-framed displays to avoid reflections.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Scaling up a small web image until it turns soft and pixelated.
- Using thin fonts that vanish at a distance.
- Filling every inch so the key message competes with clutter.
Frequently asked questions
What resolution do posters need?
150 dpi at final size is enough for large posters viewed from a distance; 300 dpi is ideal for close-up A3 work.
Matte or gloss for posters?
Gloss maximises colour impact; matte avoids glare and suits framed or brightly lit displays. Satin sits between the two.
What is the largest poster size?
A0 (841 × 1189 mm) is the standard large format; wide-format printing can go larger for banners and custom sizes.
Ready to print?
Whether you are planning a single order or a recurring one, sharing a clear brief and print-ready artwork gets you a sharper result and a faster turnaround. If you'd like help specifying A Complete Guide to Poster and Colour Printing, get in touch for a free quote and our team will guide you through the options.
