Map Printing Services: How to Choose the Best Size for Your Folded Map
If you have an upcoming map project that will require folding, be sure to plan the map's dimensions carefully during the design phase. It is especially important to consider the overall size of the map in relation to the folded size of the map.
In other words, the map's dimensions should enable it to fold neatly to its desired finished size. This is accomplished by designing the overall dimensions of the map (flat size) to be multiples of its folded dimensions (finished size).
To help illustrate, let's use one of the most common finished sizes for a folded map, which is 4" wide x 9" high. This is a popular size because it is relatively compact and fits well in display racks, vehicle glove compartments, backpacks, and hip pockets.
Below are small, medium, and large examples of map sizes that would fold neatly to this 4" x 9" size. Each interior rectangle represents a 4" x 9" panel of the map.
Notice that the overall dimensions of all three examples are multiples of 4" x
9".
Needless to say, map sizes that are not multiples of the desired finished size
would yield a less than ideal folding pattern. For example, maps that measure 15"
x 20", 22" x 34", or 28" x 40" would not fold efficiently to the 4" x 9" size.
Money Saving Tip: Choose a Map Size that can be Produced on a Standard Printing
Press
As mentioned, most maps are created as oversized documents. But your best
value will be attained by not going excessively large. Preferably, try to
design your maps to fit on a standard-size printing press. If in doubt, check
with your printer before finalizing the size of your artwork. Then you will
know which map sizes they can print (and fold) in the most cost-effective
manner.
By the way, the three map sizes represented in the diagrams above are probably
the most efficient sizes for a small, medium, and large
sheet-fed printing press. As a result, these sizes will be more affordable for you.
If you have a custom-printed map project, folded or
unfolded, get in touch with Formax Printing. Though we don't print one-offs or
extremely small quantities, we can help with most map projects of 250 pieces or
more. Our map printing services are a specialty operation and we would enjoy working with you on your map printing project.
Just give us a call at 866-367-6221. Or, if you already know
your specs, submit our easy quote request form. As always, we
look forward to working with you!
Take care! Rick