How to Test New Wide-Format Print Media Before Production

Before adding unfamiliar wide-format print media to your workflow, it’s important to test it first. A print may look great at first glance, but professional production also depends on reliable feeding, color, drying or curing, and finishing.

A simple qualification process can help print shops compare paper, canvas, vinyl, and banner media without committing an entire roll. When possible, start with a smaller quantity or an ArtDeco Media Sample Pack.

1. Check Printer and Ink Compatibility

Start by considering the final application and your printer. A photographic print, gallery wrap, wall graphic, and outdoor banner can require very different media.

Before testing, make sure the material is compatible with your ink technology. ArtDeco makes this easier by organizing products into Aqueous-Compatible Media, Solvent & Eco-Solvent Media, and Latex-Compatible Media.

2. Inspect and Prepare Your Media

Before printing, inspect the material for damaged edges, excessive curl, surface marks, or other issues. Allow the media to adjust to your print room's normal conditions, especially if it was recently transported through hot, cold, or humid weather.

When available, begin with the recommended printer preset or ICC profile for your printer, ink, and media combination.

3. Run a Test Print

Your test should include a variety of colors, gradients, fine details, shadows, highlights, and a familiar photograph. This gives you more opportunities to identify problems before starting a customer job.

For photography, you could compare Gloss Photo Paper against Luster Photo Paper using the same image.

For signage, test the actual installation process using an ArtDeco Adhesive Vinyl or Banner Media product.

4. Evaluate More Than Image Quality

Look for banding, color accuracy, fine detail, feeding problems, ink behavior, and drying or curing performance.

Finishing matters too. Depending on the project, test cutting, folding, laminating, mounting, stretching, or installation. Media that prints beautifully still needs to perform reliably during the rest of production.

5. Save Your Approved Settings

Once you find settings that work, document them. Record the media, printer, ink, preset, ICC profile, drying or curing time, and finishing settings.

Keeping these records creates a repeatable workflow for future jobs and makes it easier to verify performance when opening a new roll.

Need help finding the right media? Browse ArtDeco Media or contact ArtDeco Media for help choosing a product for your printer and application.