Designing for grand format print isn’t like designing for a screen. When your artwork’s measured in metres, every pixel, line, and colour decision counts and no one knows that better than Aimee Johnston, our in-house designer at Mesh Direct.
Aimee’s job is to turn ideas into bold, clear, professional artwork that performs at scale. From construction mesh and vinyl hoardings to stage backdrops and event signage, she’s seen what works (and what doesn’t).
Here are her top tips for designing mesh that stands out for all the right reasons 👇
DO: Go Simple + Bold With Signage Design
When your artwork’s being viewed from the street, not a screen – simplicity wins.
Keep messaging short and impactful. Think big logo, bold colour, clean linework.
“Your mesh should read in a second,” Aimee says. “If someone driving past can’t instantly understand who you are, it’s too complicated.”
DO: Work With Grand Scale In Mind
Grand format print means grand format proportions. That’s why our artwork templates include scale references (for example, 1:10 size at 300ppi). Always set your artboard to the bleed size or artwork size and save it correctly — Aimee’s rule: start with the end in mind.
Pro tip: supply vector logos (.AI, .EPS, or .PDF) so they scale cleanly. Raster images (like .JPG or .PNG) can blur when enlarged.
DON’T: Forget About Bleed And Placement
Even the best artwork can go wrong if text or logos sit too close to the edge. Always include bleed where required, and keep key elements away from seams, hems, or eyelets.
“We can do miracles in print,” says Aimee, “but we can’t make a logo printed through a grommet look good!”
DO: Think in Contrast and Clarity
High contrast = high impact.
Mesh signage often sits outdoors with glare, shadows, or movement, so contrast is key. Light logos pop on dark backgrounds and vice versa. Avoid fine text or intricate patterns that get lost when viewed from a distance.
DON’T: Assume Screen Colours Match Print
Print runs in CMYK, not RGB – so what looks electric on your monitor may print slightly muted.
Always convert your artwork to CMYK before supplying files. Our team can help you adjust colours for the best real-world result.
DO: Partner with the Mesh Direct Experts
Designing for mesh is equal parts creativity and precision and that’s exactly what Aimee and our in-house design team specialise in. We’ll make sure your artwork is technically sound, visually striking, and perfectly aligned with your brand.
From concept to print-ready design, we make standing out effortless.
Ready to make your mesh unmissable?
Reach out to our design team today for artwork advice or to get started on your next project.
