How to Choose the Right Substrate for Large Format Printing

When it comes to large-format printing, what you print on is just as important as what you print. Whether you're creating banners for a trade show, signage for a retail space, or window graphics for a campaign, the substrate—the base material on which you print—plays a critical role in how your graphics look, last, and perform.

At Schiele Group, we specialize in helping businesses, unions, and organizations nationwide select the ideal materials for their large-format printing projects. In this guide, we’ll break down what a substrate is, explore popular options, and share key tips for choosing the best one based on your needs.

What Is a Substrate in Printing?

In printing, a substrate is the base material that receives ink, toner, or other imaging processes. For small-format jobs, this is typically paper. But for large format projects, the list of substrate options expands to include:

• Vinyl

• Foam board

• Acrylic

• Corrugated plastic

• PVC

• Fabric

• Aluminum

• Magnetic sheeting

  
  

Each substrate behaves differently based on how it absorbs ink, reacts to environmental conditions, and supports durability or display.

Why the Right Substrate Matters

Choosing the wrong substrate can result in:

• Warped or curled signage

• Poor image clarity or color absorption

• Short lifespan (especially outdoors)

• Difficulty with installation (flimsy or too rigid)

  
  

The right substrate enhances:

• Print quality

• Longevity

• Professional appearance

• Ease of transport or installation

At Schiele Group, our team works closely with clients to match the substrate to the specific use case and environment, so your print project performs exactly as intended.

Common Substrates for Large Format Printing

Here are some of the most popular substrate choices we work with and when to use them:

1. Vinyl

Best For: Banners, vehicle graphics, window clings, decals

Key Traits: Flexible, waterproof, durable

Vinyl is one of the most versatile substrates in large-format printing. It’s ideal for both indoor and outdoor signage, can be easily rolled for shipping, and holds vibrant colors well.

Tip: Use matte vinyl to reduce glare in brightly lit spaces.

2. Foam Board (Foamcore)

Best For: Presentations, indoor signage, POP displays

Key Traits: Lightweight, cost-effective, rigid

Foam board has a smooth surface and crisp edges, making it great for temporary signage or indoor events. However, it’s not weatherproof, so it’s best used indoors.

Tip: Mount foam board signs on easels or hang with Velcro strips for events.

3. Acrylic

Best For: High-end signage, office directories, backlit displays

Key Traits: Sleek, glossy, impact-resistant

Acrylic offers a premium, modern finish that elevates the professionalism of your display. It can be cut to shape and works beautifully for wall signage in lobbies or showrooms.

Tip: Pair with white ink for striking transparency effects.

4. Coroplast (Corrugated Plastic)

Best For: Yard signs, political signs, temporary outdoor signage

Key Traits: Lightweight, waterproof, recyclable

Coroplast is a go-to choice for campaigns and construction sites. It’s weather-resistant and affordable for high-quantity printing.

Tip: Use with H-stakes for easy ground placement in lawns or along roadsides.

5. PVC (Sintra Board)

Best For: Indoor/outdoor signs, wall graphics, menu boards

Key Traits: Durable, smooth, heavier than foam board

PVC is denser than foam but still easy to cut and mount. It offers a professional look with added durability, making it ideal for longer-term displays.

Tip: PVC is perfect for retail signage and directional signs in buildings or campuses.

6. Fabric

Best For: Trade show displays, flags, backdrops, soft signage

Key Traits: Lightweight, flexible, vibrant print quality

Dye-sublimated fabric creates stunning visuals with a soft feel. It’s easy to transport and install, and perfect for large, portable displays.

Tip: Use wrinkle-resistant polyester for easy setup and storage.

7. Aluminum Composite (Dibond)

Best For: Long-term outdoor signage, building directories, plaques

Key Traits: Weatherproof, rigid, professional finish

Aluminum composite panels are ultra-durable and lend a sleek, corporate appearance. They resist fading, rust, and warping, making them perfect for permanent exterior signage.

Tip: Add lamination or UV coating for extended durability.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Substrate

When planning a large-format print job, here are the key factors to consider:

1. Where will this be displayed?

• Indoors: Foam board, PVC, or fabric may suffice.

• Outdoors: Opt for vinyl, aluminum, or Coroplast to withstand the elements.

2. Is this permanent or temporary?

• Temporary signs: Lightweight and inexpensive materials, such as foam core or coroplast.

• Permanent signs: Durable substrates like aluminum or PVC.

3. How will it be installed or shipped?

• If it needs to be shipped flat, choose a rigid material that won’t bend.

• If it must be rolled, go with vinyl or fabric.

4. What level of professionalism is needed?

• For corporate offices or high-end retail, use acrylic or aluminum.

• For casual events or short-term promotions, foam board or coroplast will do the job.

5. Will it be viewed up close or from afar?

• Up-close signs (like lobby signs) require finer detail and higher resolution on smooth surfaces.

• Signs viewed from a distance (like outdoor banners) can use more textured or durable materials.

How Schiele Group Helps You Choose the Right Substrate

With numerous substrate options available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. At Schiele Group, we make it simple. Our experts will:

• Review your project goals and timeline

• Recommend materials that fit your budget and brand aesthetic

• Provide proofs to preview the appearance

• Handle all finishing, shipping, and installation options

  
  

Whether you need 10 temporary signs for a weekend campaign or 10,000 yard signs for a political rollout, we’ll help you get the right look—and the right performance.

Bonus: Finishing Options to Consider

Once you've chosen your substrate, we can enhance your project with:

• Lamination (gloss, matte, or UV-protective)

• Grommets for hanging

• Easel backs or H-stakes

• Contour cutting for custom shapes

• Mounting and installation

Ready to Get Started?

If you have a large-format print project in the works, don’t leave substrate selection to chance. At Schiele Group, we help clients in Chicago and across the country make smart, cost-effective material choices for signage, displays, packaging, and more.

📞 Let’s talk about your next project

🔗 www.theschielegroup.com