Overview of Common Large-Format Printable Media Types (not limited to this list)

Use this guide to understand the most common types of large-format media you can load on your printer — from simple CAD bond paper to premium fine art, vinyls, textiles, and specialty technical films.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• 1. Standard Papers
• 2. Photo & Proofing Papers
• 3. Fine Art & Specialty Papers
• 4. Self-Adhesive Media
• 5. Vinyls & Films for Signage
• 6. Canvas & Fabric Media
• 7. Banner Materials
• 8. Rigid & Semi-Rigid Inkjet-Printable Media
• 9. Specialty & Technical Media

Always verify media compatibility with your printer model, ink type, etc...

1. Standard Papers

These are everyday papers mainly used for CAD drawings, linework, posters, and simple graphics where ultra-high photo quality is not required.

• Uncoated bond paper (75–120 gsm)
• Coated bond paper / presentation paper (matte)
• Plotter paper (engineering/CAD)
• Recycled bond paper

2. Photo & Proofing Papers

Photo and proofing papers are designed for high-quality image reproduction, making them ideal for posters, photo prints, and color-critical proofs.

• Glossy photo paper (RC)
• Satin / lustre photo paper (RC)
• Semi-gloss photo paper
• Matte photo paper
• Instant-dry photo paper
• Metallic photo paper
• Proofing paper (contract proofing grades)

3. Fine Art & Specialty Papers

Fine art and specialty papers are used for gallery-level work, art reproduction, and premium display pieces where texture, longevity, and appearance are critical.

• Fine art rag paper (cotton)
• Textured watercolor paper
• Smooth fine art paper
• Canvas-textured paper
• Handmade / mould-made art papers
• Museum-grade archival papers

4. Self-Adhesive Media

Self-adhesive media have a built-in adhesive layer, making them suitable for stickers, labels, decals, and posters that can be mounted directly onto surfaces.

• Self-adhesive photo paper
• Self-adhesive matte paper
• Self-adhesive vinyl (monomeric, polymeric, cast)
• Removable / repositionable adhesive vinyl
• High-tack adhesive vinyl
• Window adhesive film (clear, frosted, one-way vision)

5. Vinyls & Films for Signage

These media are commonly used for indoor and outdoor signage, displays, and lightboxes where durability and specific optical properties are needed.

• PVC vinyl (monomeric / polymeric / cast)
• Backlit film (translucent for lightboxes)
• Frontlit film
• Clear polyester film
• Opaque PET film
• Roll-up / pop-up display film (grey-back or blockout)
• Wallcovering vinyl (wall wraps)
• Floor graphics vinyl (with slip-resistant laminate)

6. Canvas & Fabric Media

Canvas and fabric media are used for décor, soft signage, and textile applications, offering a more tactile and premium look compared to traditional vinyls.

• Polyester inkjet canvas
• Cotton / poly cotton canvas
• Matte canvas
• Satin / gloss canvas
• Flag fabric (lightweight polyester)
• Backlit textile (for silicone edge graphics)
• Display fabric (stretch polyester, knit, woven)
• Blockout fabric (for banners)
• Deco fabric (interior decoration textiles)

7. Banner Materials

Banner materials are designed for hanging displays and advertising both indoors and outdoors, with options for wind resistance and double-sided viewing.

• PVC frontlit banner (single-sided)
• PVC blockout banner (double-sided)
• Mesh banner (perforated for wind)
• Textile banner fabrics
• Non-PVC / eco banner materials (PP, PET alternatives)

8. Rigid & Semi-Rigid Inkjet-Printable Media*

*These are often printed directly on flatbed inkjet devices, but some types are available in flexible rolls or as over-lamination media.

• Polypropylene film
• Polystyrene film
• Synthetic paper (tear resistant)
• Light board / display board (paper-based)
• Magnetic receptive media
• Printable magnet sheets (for some systems)

9. Specialty & Technical Media

Specialty and technical media are used for specific applications such as high-end backlit displays, screen positives, transfers, and technical drawings.

• Backlit duratrans-style film (for high-end lightboxes)
• Screenpositive / film positive media
• High-contrast line film
• Heat-transfer paper (for textiles, depending on printer)
• Water-slide decal paper (some systems)
• Layout / tracing paper (translucent)