At Millcraft, we grow with our customers. As demand for signage, displays, and large-scale visuals continues to rise, more print providers are stepping into the wide format space—and we’re here to help you do it right.
Whether you’re expanding your current offerings or launching something entirely new, this guide walks you through the essentials of getting started in wide format printing with confidence.
Step 1: Know Your Audience
Start by identifying who you’ll be printing for. Wide format printing supports a wide range of industries:
- Retail – Window displays, point-of-purchase signage
- Corporate & Events – Trade show graphics, directional signage
- Education & Government – Posters, floor graphics, informational signage
- Construction & Architecture – Site signage, blueprints
- Custom Décor – Wall murals, canvas prints, and more
Understanding your audience helps you align your equipment, materials, and messaging to deliver targeted results.
Step 2: Choose the Right Equipment and Ink
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your equipment should match the audience and clientele's needs and your expected output volume. Key printer types include:
- Aqueous Inkjet – Ideal for indoor applications like posters and photography. This is best for intricate pieces of work.
- Eco-Solvent – Designed for durable, outdoor signage and rather resistant to any ultraviolet degradation. With about a three-to-five-year stability in appearance.
- Latex – Fast-drying and compatible with both rigid and rolled materials. The flexibility of the ink allows it to be used on surfaces that are not flat.
- UV Curable - Dries the fastest using ultraviolet light. It has the longest outdoor durability out of all the inks due to the curing process.
Finishing tools such as laminators, trimmers, or routers can also be essential depending on your workflow.
Tip: Work with a great partner who can guide you through the process of choosing the best equipment for your needs. Millcraft’s subject matter experts can help you choose what path you’re wanting to explore and provide turnkey solutions that are ready for immediate use.
Step 3: Train Your Team
Your team is the backbone of your operation. Ensure staff are trained to:
- Operate and maintain the equipment
- Understand color calibration and workflow optimization
- Properly handle and finish various materials
- Diagnose and solve common print issues
Millcraft offers onboarding resources, product knowledge sessions, and ongoing support so you’re never alone in the learning curve.
Step 4: Select the Right Materials
Great output depends on great input. Millcraft offers a comprehensive range of wide format media, including:
- Adhesive vinyls
- Banner materials
- Rigid boards
- Window films
- Fabrics
- Specialty papers
We stock leading brands like General Formulations, Sihl, and Orafol—and our team can help you choose the right materials for your printer, project, and customer expectations.
Step 5: Promote Your Capabilities
Once you’re up and running, let customers know what you offer. Use a variety of channels to showcase your new services:
- Website and social media updates
- Email campaigns to existing clients
- In-store samples and mockups
- Direct outreach to local businesses
Start strong with your current base and grow from there.
Millcraft is With You at Every Step
Entering the wide format market isn’t just about adding equipment—it’s about building a lasting partnership. Millcraft provides:
- Expert product and equipment consultation
- Media and substrate recommendations
- Reliable inventory and fast delivery
- Personalized training and ongoing education
Let’s Build Something Big—Together
Whether you’re ready to get started or simply exploring the possibilities, your Millcraft Wide Format Specialist is ready to help you take the next step. Let’s expand your capabilities and grow your business—together.
