Types Of Poster Papers

If the poster project requires a high-standard finish then selecting the correct print media is essential. Alternatively, if posters are required for short-term promotions, low-budget poster paper with a lighter paper weight is ideal, as it limits the cost if numerous copies are required. 

Paperweights

From heavy-duty 240gsm, and 225gsm poster paper to lighter weights such as 190gsm poster paper, they are many choices. The heavier the paperweight the higher the quality, durability and visual impact. The heavier paper can be used multiple times due to its strength, unlike the lighter paperweights.

Lighter paperweights are great for short-term promotions. For example, a 190gsm satin poster paper is ideal because of the low costs which is suitable for limited shelf life displays.

Poster Materials

There are many materials available for poster paper, such as card stock, text paper, paper board, and various synthetic options.

With the many different material and size options, it’s important to select the correct paper size. For wide-format printers, it’s beneficial to check the core sizes and widths of the paper before ordering the roll.

Outdoor Posters

With other choices such as solvent and latex poster media, outdoor promotions would be achievable with these papers as they are more durable. Water-based inkjet paper is only suitable for indoor promotions as it does not contain water-resistant properties, unlike the solvent photo media.

Large Poster Paper Sizes

• A0 (841mm x 1189mm)
• A1 (594mm x 841mm)
• A2 (420mm x 594mm)

Poster Paper Surfaces

Most poster paper has options for surfaces, such as gloss, satin, or lustre. Gloss is popular but be mindful that it can reflect light and reflections so an area with no direct light would be recommended. 

Satin is a popular choice as it doesn’t have as much impact with light glare. Lustre paper is a mixture of glossy and matte which provides a semi-gloss finish that doesn’t reflect the light. Matte finishes provide more depth and are usually used for projects that require a higher-quality finish.

Poster prints can also be laminated to create strength and a waterproof surface. Some people have posters printed at a lower paperweight and then have them laminated to be able to transport them without damage.

Printing Your Poster 

There are plenty of options for poster printing, a large-format printer is required for sizes larger than A3. If prints are required in A4 or A3 then it’s worth checking if your desktop print can handle poster sheets, as the thickness may impact the printer. 

Print houses usually offer poster printing services in-house and prints can be completed in nearly any size. A large poster printer’s width is normally at least 44” and it can print pretty much any length.