5 Things to Know Before Printing a Large Format Wall Map
- map printing
5 Things to Know Before Printing a Large Format Wall Map
Large format wall maps aren’t just tools — they’re centerpieces.
Whether you’re creating a map for a visitor center, university campus, hotel lobby, or city hall, a large map can wow your guests, promote exploration, and strengthen your brand.
But printing a big map successfully takes more than just scaling up a file.
Here’s what you need to know to make sure your wall map looks as good in real life as it does on the screen.
1. Start with the Right Resolution and File Setup
Big prints require big files.
A standard web graphic won’t cut it — you need a properly prepared, high-resolution file.
Here’s what to plan for:
300 DPI at full print size is ideal
Use vector artwork for lines, icons, and logos whenever possible (it scales without losing quality)
Make sure to include bleed and safe margins to account for trimming and framing
Starting right saves time, frustration, and extra costs later.
2. Choose Materials Based on the Environment
Where your map will live affects what it should be printed on.
Some good options include:
Standard Posters: Great for indoor, temporary displays
Vinyl Banners: Durable, flexible, good for outdoor areas
Mounted Boards (Foamcore, Gatorboard): Sleek and professional for indoor, permanent walls
Acrylic or Metal Prints: Ultra-premium finish for lobbies, museums, and high-traffic areas
Ask yourself: Will it be touched? Will it be exposed to sunlight or moisture? Match the material to the need.
3. Think About Viewing Distance and Detail
Design your map based on how close people will be standing when they view it.
If it’s viewed from across a room:
Use larger text and simple designs.
If it’s close-up (like a walking tour map):
Include more details like street names, attractions, and trails.
Good wall maps balance being informative and easy to read at a glance.
4. Plan for Framing, Mounting, or Installation Early
Will your map be framed? Mounted to the wall? Hung as a banner?
Different mounting methods can affect how you:
Size your bleed and margins
Choose materials and finishes
Design the layout (e.g., leaving room for a frame border)
Thinking about installation early prevents headaches at the end of the project.
5. Expect a Longer Turnaround Time (But It’s Worth It)
Large format printing takes a little longer than standard prints.
You’ll need time for:
Proofing large files
Specialty material setup
Shipping or custom framing if needed
Pro tip: Start your project 3–6 weeks before your ideal installation date to give yourself breathing room.
👉 Learn more about our large format printing services here.
Quick Recap: 5 Must-Know Tips for Large Wall Maps
✅ Start with high-res files and scalable designs
✅ Match your material to your environment
✅ Design for the real-world viewing distance
✅ Plan for installation early to avoid surprises
✅ Build in extra time for production and delivery
Ready to Make Your Big Map a Big Success?
At PocketMaps, we help organizations design and print stunning large format wall maps — the kind that visitors stop, admire, and remember.
Whether you need a visitor center display, a campus wayfinding map, or a stunning centerpiece for your hotel or office, we’ll help you deliver something unforgettable.
Manage Your Project with Full Transparency
When you work with PocketMaps, you don’t just get great design and printing — you also get full visibility into your order every step of the way.
Our easy-to-use online dashboard lets you:
Track your project from design to proofing to production to shipping
See estimated ship dates and delivery times
Upload updated files or split shipments if needed
Chat directly with our customer service team anytime
We built this platform because, before PocketMaps, we were customers too — and we couldn’t find a solution that worked.
After 10 years of building and refining our system, we’re proud to offer you a faster, easier, stress-free experience.