Looking to create standout posters for your business, event, or home décor? Printing posters at Staples offers a convenient, affordable, and high-quality solution for all your needs. This shopping guide will walk you through the process, options, and tips to ensure your custom posters make a lasting impression—whether you’re promoting, personalizing, or simply capturing creativity.
Comparison Table: Types of Printing Posters from Staples
| Poster Type | Material & Finish | Durability | Display Options | Notable Benefits | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Paper | Lightweight/semi-gloss or matte | Light | Framed, wall-mount | Budget-friendly, vivid colors | Promotions, events, art |
| Super Heavyweight | Thicker, semi-gloss | Moderate | Framed, wall-mount | Improved rigidity, reduced glare | Presentations, business, art |
| Foam Board | Rigid foam, matte finish | High | Tabletop, easel | Sturdy, self-supporting | Trade shows, offices |
| Lamination Option | Any poster + laminate coating | Enhanced | All above | Water-resistant and easy to clean | Long-term displays |
| Adhesive – Fabric | Repositionable fabric | Moderate | Peel-and-stick walls | Textured, removes cleanly up to 1 year | Temporary signage, décor |
| Adhesive – Gloss | Glossy adhesive vinyl | High | Peel-and-stick glass | Bold colors, indoor/outdoor use | Window signs, sales alerts |
Everyday Usage of Printing Posters from Staples
Printing posters serve as a versatile solution for both personal and professional needs. Whether you want to decorate a classroom, showcase a business promotion, celebrate an event, or create informational displays, posters play an essential role in communication and visual impact. Staples offers a wide array of poster options suitable for different environments and applications:
- Business Marketing: Promote sales, brand messaging, and new products.
- Events & Announcements: Share information for concerts, meetings, or open houses.
- Educational Settings: Illustrate important concepts, rules, or motivational messages in schools.
- Home & Personal Decor: Customize spaces with art, photography, or inspirational quotes.
- Wayfinding & Signage: Guide visitors at events or within buildings.
- Temporary Notices: Post health guidelines, safety messages, or reminders.
No matter your goal, the right poster ensures your message is noticed and remembered.
Key Benefits of Printing Posters at Staples
1. Professionally Printed Quality
Staples utilizes high-resolution printers and premium materials to deliver crisp graphics, vivid colors, and sharp text. This level of quality makes your poster stand out and ensures durability in display.
2. Wide Range of Material Choices
- Standard and heavyweight paper for everyday needs.
- Foam board for supportive, rigid displays.
- Adhesive posters for easy application and removal on multiple surfaces.
- Lamination options that prevent fading, moisture damage, and make cleaning a breeze.
3. Versatility in Application
With a selection of sizes (usually up to 36″x48″ or larger), finishes (matte, gloss, semi-gloss), and mounting options, you can match the poster to any need, from small point-of-sale promotions to large trade show displays.
4. Customization and Convenience
- Use hundreds of professional templates, or upload your custom designs.
- Same-day printing and pickup are available for some poster options, removing stressful time constraints for last-minute projects.
- Shipping and in-store pickup options add even more convenience.
5. Eco-Friendly Offerings
Many Staples print centers are powered by renewable energy and use recyclable materials, providing an environmentally responsible solution without sacrificing quality.
How to Choose the Right Poster Option at Staples
Choosing the correct type of poster is vital for achieving the impact and longevity you need. Consider the following factors:
1. Intended Use and Location
- Indoor vs. Outdoor: Gloss adhesive and laminated posters withstand sun, water, and temperature changes. Standard paper and lightweight posters are best suited to indoor conditions.
- Long-term or Short-term Display: Foam board and laminated options excel for longer-term displays. Repositionable fabric adhesive is perfect for short-term or rotating messaging.
2. Desired Visual Impact
- Matte Finish: Reduces glare, great for high-lighted areas like offices or classrooms.
- Gloss or Semi-Gloss Finish: Enhances color vibrancy and attracts attention—ideal for retail and promotional posters.
3. Mobility and Display Format
- Rigid Foam Board: Best for posters that must stand on their own (e.g., on easels or as tabletop displays).
- Adhesive Posters: Stick directly to windows or walls and leave no residue after removal.
- Standard Poster Paper: Lightweight and flexible, for framing or taping to surfaces.
4. Customization Level
- Choose pre-designed templates for speed, or upload your own artwork for full creative control. Staples allows you to preview and confirm your design before printing.
5. Size Requirements
- Determine where your poster will be displayed and measure the available space. Staples offers a range of standard and custom sizes—be sure to select the correct dimensions prior to finalizing your order, as sizes typically can’t be changed once your design is submitted.
Expert Tips and Best Practices for Getting the Most from Your Printing Posters
- Order Early: If possible, place your order a day in advance to avoid last-minute rushes and ensure availability of special finishes or mounting.
- Proof Your Design: Double-check all text, images, and layout before submitting your print job—what you see is what you get.
- Choose High-Resolution Images: For the sharpest print results, use images and graphics at a minimum resolution of 300 dpi at full poster size.
- Use Bleed and Safety Margins: Design your poster to extend beyond trim lines (bleed area) and avoid critical content near the edges.
- Match Material to Purpose: For high-traffic areas or long-term use, opt for laminated, heavyweight, or foam board options.
- Think About Installation: Consider how you’ll hang or display your poster—command strips, easels, frames, or directly on walls—and select mounting options accordingly.
- Care & Cleaning: Laminated posters can be wiped clean with a damp cloth; adhesive posters should be gently peeled off and stored flat if planning to reuse.
- Check Store Availability: For same-day needs, confirm your nearest Staples location offers the size and finish you require.
- Bulk Discounts: If ordering multiple posters, inquire about volume pricing for additional savings.
Technical Comparison Table: Poster Materials & Specifications
| Feature | Lightweight Paper | Super Heavyweight | Foam Board | Fabric Adhesive | Gloss Adhesive | Lamination Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thickness | Light | Thick | Rigid 3/16″-1/2″ | Flexible | Flexible/Rigid | Adds protection |
| Finish | Semi-gloss/Matte | Semi-gloss | Matte | Textured | Gloss | Gloss/Satin/Matte |
| Durability | Basic | Moderate | High | Moderate | High | Enhanced |
| Glare Resistance | Semi | Semi | Yes | Yes | Low | High |
| Water Resistance | No | No | Limited | No | Yes | Yes |
| Best Use | Short-term Promo | Presentations | Trade Shows | Home/Office | Retail/Outdoor | All |
| Removability | N/A | N/A | N/A | Yes (no residue) | No | N/A |
| Custom Size Availability | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Same-day Pickup Availability | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Price Range | $ (Low) | $$ | $$$ | $$ | $$$ | Add-on |
*Same-day pickup often excludes oversized and mounted posters; check store for details.
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Conclusion
Printing posters at Staples combines convenience, professional quality, and customizable options to help you communicate visually and effectively. Whether you need a lightweight promotional poster, a durable foam board display, or versatile adhesive signage, there’s a Staples solution tailored to your project and budget. With features like same-day pickup, robust material choices, and eco-friendly operations, preparing and displaying your message has never been easier. Follow best practices for design and selection, and your poster will leave a lasting impression—no matter the application.
FAQ
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What types of materials can I choose for poster printing at Staples?
Staples offers lightweight and heavyweight poster paper, foam board, fabric adhesive, and gloss adhesive options. Each material serves different display and durability needs, from flexible paper for short-term displays to rigid foam board for self-supporting signage. -
Can I get my poster laminated for extra protection?
Yes. Lamination is a finishing upgrade that adds a durable protective coating to your poster, making it more resistant to water, fading, and dirt. Laminated posters are easy to wipe clean and last much longer than non-laminated versions. -
What sizes are available for Staples posters?
Standard sizes range from smaller formats (like 12″x18″) up to large displays (such as 36″x48″). Custom sizing is available within set parameters. It’s important to select your size before starting the design or upload process, as you cannot change it afterward. -
How do I display my poster once printed?
Display methods include framing, tacking or taping to walls, using easels for foam board, or applying peel-and-stick adhesive posters directly to surfaces. The best method depends on your material choice and display location. -
Are adhesive posters reusable and do they damage walls?
Fabric adhesive posters are repositionable and can be removed cleanly (for up to one year), leaving no sticky residue or wall damage. Gloss adhesive posters are designed for strong adhesion and typically focus on bold, permanent displays. -
Can I design my own poster, or do I have to use a template?
You can either use one of hundreds of professional templates or upload your own custom design. The Staples online design interface allows for both quick selections and full creative control. -
Is same-day pickup available for all poster types?
Same-day pickup is typically available for standard and heavyweight paper posters up to certain sizes (often up to 24″x36″). Foam board, adhesive, and oversized posters usually require additional processing time. -
What resolution should my images be for the best print quality?
For sharp, clear prints, use images at a minimum of 300 dpi (dots per inch) at the actual size you want printed. This prevents pixelation and ensures your poster looks professional. -
Can I order in bulk, and are there price breaks for larger quantities?
Yes. Staples offers volume discounts for orders of multiple posters. Bulk pricing is often reflected in the shopping cart, but you can inquire in-store or through print services for specific quotes. -
How long will my Staples poster last once displayed?
Poster lifespan depends on display conditions and material. Paper posters in dry, indoor environments can last several months or longer. Lamination, foam board, and adhesive posters offer increased longevity, especially for high-traffic or exposed areas. For best results, match your poster material to its intended use and environment.
