18 Oct Indoor vs Outdoor Posters: Materials, Sizes and Display Advice
The right poster starts with its display location. An indoor noticeboard, a shop window and an outdoor pavement display expose a print to different conditions. Choose the material for that environment before deciding on size or artwork.
When an indoor poster is appropriate
Indoor posters suit protected spaces such as reception areas, cafés, classrooms and noticeboards. Paper-based prints can provide a practical option where rain and persistent moisture are not concerns. Select the stock and size offered for the particular product.
A window display needs extra thought. Strong light, condensation and the colour of the surface behind the print can affect the result. A poster placed inside a window is not necessarily the same requirement as a poster fitted to an outdoor display unit.
Understanding the outdoor material options
Star Print’s A2 outdoor poster currently offers 440gsm Waterproof PVC and 210mic Greyback. These specifications describe different properties and should not be compared as if they were the same unit.
- GSM describes mass per square metre. In 440gsm PVC, it states the material’s weight per unit area.
- Microns describe thickness. One micron is one thousandth of a millimetre, so 210 microns equals 0.21 mm.
- Greyback refers to a grey reverse intended to help reduce show-through from the surface behind the poster.
- Opacity describes how effectively a material blocks light. It is separate from its weight or thickness.
Check that your frame accepts the selected material and thickness. Greyback should not automatically be treated as a backlit film, and waterproof material does not make a poorly sealed frame or unsuitable fitting weatherproof.
Match the poster to the display
A2 has a finished size of 420 × 594 mm; A3 is 297 × 420 mm. Confirm the actual insert size required by your frame. Its visible opening may be smaller because the frame overlaps the edges, so keep important text clear of that area.
Star Print’s outdoor poster listing is for the printed poster only: a frame or A-board is not included. Arrange the display hardware separately and check its suitability for the location.
Design for the viewing distance
Use one prominent message, strong contrast and a clear next step. A price or event date should be readable without studying the small print. If a QR code is included, test it at its final size and at the distance a customer can realistically approach.
What to confirm before ordering
- Finished size, orientation and quantity
- Indoor or outdoor location and expected exposure
- Frame opening, material thickness and fitting method
- Artwork bleed and safe margins
- Required delivery date
Browse Star Print’s poster range or contact our team with your display details. We can discuss the available options before you order.