Posters, fine art prints and retail displays by their very nature need to have colours that pop, next level clarity and overall impact. And the material you choose to print them on can make a huge difference. While the right poster media, canvas printing material or backlit display media can make an image or graphics pop, the wrong choice can leave you with a product that simply doesn’t do the job.
Here’s our guide to the best wide format media options for eye-catching, high-quality results that also ensure your work lasts longer and looks professional.
Poster Media: Get The Right Finish For The Right Job
Posters are one of the most versatile and popular forms of printed media. From point-of-sale to event advertising, the right wide format poster paper ensures sharp detail, rich colours and fast turnaround.
For indoor promotional work, look for a bright white, satin-coated poster paper - it's fast drying, compatible with multiple ink systems and gives a professional semi-matt finish that reduces glare under lights.
For outdoor posters or A-board use, consider a water-resistant option with added tear resistance, or laminate for extra durability.
Canvas Printing Material: For Gallery-Quality Impact
If you’re looking to produce high-end artwork reproductions, personal photography or luxury interior décor, canvas printing material offers a premium feel and realistic, textured finish perfect for artistic and decorative applications.
Poly-cotton canvas blends are a popular choice because they balance durability with a natural texture that mimics traditional painting surfaces. Make sure the canvas you choose is compatible with your ink system (solvent, eco-solvent, latex, or UV) and has good stretch and stability for easy framing or mounting.
Also consider whether a matt or gloss coating works best for your work. Matt is often favoured for fine art reproduction, while gloss can enhance vibrancy in photographic prints.
Backlit Display Media: Make It Glow
If you literally need your prints to shine, backlit display media may be the answer. It is designed for lightboxes, illuminated menu boards and display panels where internal lighting enhances the image.
The key is even light diffusion. A high-quality backlit film ensures colours stay rich and text remains sharp when lit from behind. Choose a media with good ink absorption and optical clarity for the best visual results, especially in retail, hospitality, or exhibition environments.
Banner Media: Durable, Flexible And Built To Last
For hanging displays, pull-up banners, or temporary signage, banner media offers durability and versatility. Polymeric or calendered vinyl is a go-to option because it’s strong, tear-resistant and holds up well outdoors. You can also opt for grey-back blockout materials for double-sided display systems or when you need to prevent light show-through.
Look for banner materials with good curl resistance, especially if you're printing for roller banners or pop-up displays where neat presentation is everything.
Choosing The Right Media Made Easy
From poster media and canvas printing material to backlit display media and banner media, there’s a print material for every job if you know where to look. Sometimes the answer will be obvious, sometimes you may need to experiment a little to get the right result. Either way, there will be a material which will make your finished product pop.
Not sure what’s best for your printer or project? Get in touch - we’re here to help.
