What Is Custom Size Poster Printing?
Custom size poster printing allows customers to order posters in dimensions that differ from standard paper sizes such as A3, A2 and A1.
Instead of designing artwork around a predetermined format, you can choose dimensions appropriate for your intended display space, subject to the available printing specifications.
For example, a business might require a narrow poster for a retail display, a wide promotional print for an exhibition wall, or a particular size to fit an existing frame.
Custom sizing can help achieve a more balanced design while making better use of the available space.
Standard Poster Sizes vs Custom Poster Sizes
Standard poster sizes are widely used because they provide familiar dimensions and are convenient for many printing and display applications.
| Poster size | Dimensions |
|---|
| A4 | 210 × 297 mm |
| A3 | 297 × 420 mm |
| A2 | 420 × 594 mm |
| A1 | 594 × 841 mm |
| A0 | 841 × 1189 mm |
These standard sizes work well for many marketing and display requirements. However, some projects need dimensions that do not fit the standard formats.
A custom-size poster could be designed to fit a specific frame, display panel, exhibition stand or interior space.
Important: Not every custom dimension is available with every printing material. Always confirm the permitted minimum and maximum sizes before preparing artwork.
Benefits of Custom Size Poster Printing
1. Greater Design Flexibility
Custom poster printing allows designers to work with different proportions, including portrait, landscape, square and panoramic layouts.
This flexibility is useful when a standard poster format does not suit the design or intended display area.
2. Better Use of Available Space
A poster that fits its display area can look more professional and make better use of the available space.
For example, a narrow wall or unusual retail display may benefit from a bespoke format rather than a conventional A-series poster.
3. More Distinctive Promotional Displays
Businesses often compete for attention in busy retail and exhibition environments.
An appropriately sized poster with strong imagery and clear messaging can help create a distinctive presentation.
4. Suitable for Different Applications
Custom-sized posters can support advertising, events, exhibitions, interior decoration, photography and educational displays.
The best specification depends on where the poster will be displayed and how long it needs to remain in use.
5. Consistent Branding
Businesses can coordinate their posters with other printed marketing materials by using consistent colours, typography, logos and imagery.
This helps create a recognisable visual identity across different promotional displays.
Popular Uses for Custom Size Posters
Retail Advertising and Shop Displays
Retailers can use bespoke posters to promote new products, seasonal campaigns, special offers and in-store events.
Custom dimensions may be particularly useful for shop windows, display cabinets and designated promotional areas.
Exhibitions and Trade Shows
Exhibition spaces often require printed graphics in particular dimensions.
Custom posters can support product demonstrations, promotional messaging, brand awareness and visitor information.
For other exhibition display options, explore the Elite Press Roller Banners collection.
Events and Conferences
Custom-sized posters can be used for event schedules, directions, promotional announcements and information displays.
Choosing the correct size helps ensure that important information is visible to the intended audience.
Office and Workplace Displays
Businesses may use posters to communicate company values, safety information, announcements, performance updates and internal campaigns.
Bespoke dimensions can help these displays fit the available wall space.
Photography and Wall Art
Photographers, artists and individuals can use custom-size posters to display landscapes, portraits, illustrations and creative artwork.
For photographic printing, the quality and resolution of the original image are particularly important.
Educational Displays
Schools, colleges, universities and training organisations can use posters for teaching materials, presentations, exhibitions and information boards.
Choosing the Right Custom Poster Dimensions
Before selecting your poster dimensions, consider the intended location and how the finished print will be displayed.
Measure the Display Area
Measure the available height and width carefully.
If the poster will fit inside an existing frame, check whether the stated frame dimensions refer to the visible opening or the actual print size.
Consider the Viewing Distance
A poster viewed from several metres away generally requires larger text and simpler messaging than a poster intended for close reading.
The size of the finished print should support its intended viewing distance.
Choose the Correct Orientation
Portrait posters are often suitable for notices, information displays and vertical wall spaces.
Landscape posters can work well for panoramic photography, promotional graphics and wide display areas.
Square or other unusual proportions may be suitable for creative or decorative applications.
Confirm the Printing Limits
Custom poster sizes are subject to production limits, including the printing equipment, material width and finishing requirements.
Check the available specifications with Elite Press before finalising an unusual dimension.
Choosing Paper and Materials for Custom Posters
The choice of material affects the appearance, handling and suitability of a poster.
Silk Poster Paper
Silk paper provides a smooth finish with a subtle sheen. It can be suitable for promotional posters containing both images and text.
Gloss Poster Paper
Gloss paper has a reflective surface that can enhance the appearance of colourful graphics and photography.
It may be less suitable for locations where reflections interfere with readability.
Matt Poster Paper
Matt paper offers a less reflective finish, making it useful for text-heavy designs and displays viewed under strong lighting.
Waterproof and Outdoor Materials
Some posters are intended for environments where moisture and weather resistance are important.
For these applications, an appropriate waterproof or outdoor-rated printing product may be required.
Standard indoor poster paper should not be assumed to be weatherproof.
The availability of individual paper types, thicknesses and specialist materials depends on the selected product and supplier.
How to Prepare Artwork for Custom Size Poster Printing
Correct artwork preparation is essential for achieving professional printing results.
Set the Exact Finished Dimensions
Create your artwork using the confirmed finished width and height.
For example, if your selected product supports a custom size of 500 × 700 mm, your design should be prepared to those dimensions, with any required bleed added according to the supplier's instructions.
Avoid resizing artwork at the last moment without checking the effect on image quality.
Use High-Resolution Images
Images should have sufficient resolution for their intended printed dimensions and viewing distance.
For smaller posters viewed closely, 300 dpi at the final print size is often a useful target.
Larger-format displays may use different resolution requirements depending on the printing process and viewing distance.
Always follow the artwork guidelines for your chosen product.
Include Bleed Where Required
Bleed is the additional printed area extending beyond the final trim edge.
It helps prevent unwanted white borders when the finished poster is cut.
Some printing products require 3 mm bleed, but requirements vary. Confirm the correct measurement before submitting artwork.
Maintain Safe Margins
Keep important text, logos and other essential design elements away from the trim edges.
This reduces the risk of content being cut off during finishing.
Check Colour Settings
Commercial printing frequently uses CMYK colour workflows.
If artwork is created in RGB, certain colours may appear different when printed.
Check the colour requirements and recommended file settings for the selected printing product.
Export a Print-Ready PDF
PDF is a commonly accepted format for professional printing.
Before uploading, confirm that your file has the correct dimensions, fonts, image resolution and bleed settings.
The exact file format and export requirements should follow the supplier's artwork specifications.
Design Tips for Effective Custom Posters
Keep the Main Message Clear
A poster should communicate its most important message quickly.
Use a short headline, relevant imagery and a clear call to action where appropriate.
Create a Strong Visual Hierarchy
Make the most important information prominent.
Use headings, supporting text and images in a logical order so that viewers can understand the message easily.
Choose Readable Typography
Select fonts that remain legible at the intended viewing distance.
Avoid using too many typefaces or placing small text over busy backgrounds.
Use High-Quality Graphics
Clear photographs, illustrations and logos contribute to a professional appearance.
Whenever possible, use vector artwork for logos and other graphics that need to remain sharp when enlarged.
Maintain Brand Consistency
Use your company's established colours, fonts and logo consistently.
This helps customers recognise your brand across posters, banners, leaflets and other printed materials.
Avoid Overcrowding
Leaving sufficient space between design elements improves readability.
A simple, well-organised poster can be more effective than a design containing too much information.
Custom Poster Printing for Indoor and Outdoor Use
Indoor and outdoor posters have different requirements.
Indoor posters are commonly used in shops, offices, exhibitions, reception areas and event venues. Standard poster paper may be appropriate depending on the application.
Outdoor posters may require specialist materials designed for exposure to moisture and changing weather conditions.
For more demanding outdoor advertising, PVC banners may sometimes be more suitable than conventional poster paper.
The correct choice depends on the installation method, intended duration and environmental conditions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When ordering bespoke poster printing, watch out for these common issues:
- Incorrect measurements: Check the display space and finished dimensions before ordering.
- Low-resolution artwork: Small images enlarged beyond their suitable size may appear pixelated.
- Missing bleed: Artwork extending to the trim edge may require additional bleed.
- Text too close to the edge: Allow adequate safe margins.
- Unsuitable material: Choose a material appropriate for indoor or outdoor conditions.
- Unconfirmed custom dimensions: Check that the requested size is supported before completing the design.
- Insufficient proofreading: Review all text, contact details, dates and prices before submitting artwork.
Taking time to check these details can help avoid unnecessary printing errors.
How to Order Custom Size Poster Printing in the UK
Before placing an order, prepare the following information:
- Required finished width and height.
- Quantity of posters.
- Intended use and display environment.
- Preferred paper or material.
- Any finishing requirements.
- Print-ready artwork or design requirements.
- Preferred delivery timeframe.
At Elite Press, we work with professional printing suppliers to provide poster and large-format printing solutions for customers across the UK.
Custom dimensions and specifications are subject to supplier availability, so it is important to confirm your requirements before ordering.
You can also explore our Elite Press printing services and related large-format display products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order posters in non-standard sizes?
Yes. Elite Press can arrange custom-size poster printing through its printing suppliers, subject to available dimensions and product specifications.
What is the best resolution for custom poster printing?
The appropriate resolution depends on the poster size, printing process and viewing distance. For many smaller posters, 300 dpi at the finished size is a useful target, but always check the specific artwork guidelines.
Can custom posters be printed in landscape orientation?
Yes, where supported by the selected product. Portrait, landscape and other proportions may be available depending on the printing specification.
Are custom-size posters suitable for outdoor advertising?
Some are, but the correct material is essential. Outdoor displays may require waterproof or weather-resistant products rather than standard indoor paper.
Can I supply my own poster design?
Yes. Customers can generally provide their own artwork, provided it meets the printing supplier's file and layout requirements.
What if I am unsure about the correct poster size?
Measure the intended display area and discuss your requirements with Elite Press before preparing the final artwork.
Conclusion
Custom size poster printing offers flexibility for businesses, events, exhibitions, photography and interior displays.
By selecting the right dimensions, material and artwork specifications, you can create a professional printed poster that fits your intended space and communicates your message effectively.
Elite Press works with established printing suppliers to provide custom-size poster printing solutions for customers across the UK.
Explore Elite Press to discover our printing services or contact us to discuss your custom poster requirements.
