TML Instructional Media Workshop

Large Format Printer FAQ

Do you offer assistance with designing posters, or with PowerPoint or other software used to design posters?

No. We print out what you have ready, and do not design, format, or edit posters. For self-guided training in software packages, visit Skillport.

How far in advance should I schedule my printing appointment?

Appointments are linked to available staff time. As such, it's typically neither possible to have a poster printed on a walk-in basis nor to schedule an appointment for same day printing. We suggest making an appointment a minimum of five days in advance. This helps to ensure that software issues, tight schedules, and last-minute edits don't derail you, and your poster is printed and ready on the day of your conference.

What typefaces are available for printing?

You should not rely on any typefaces not included in a standard, out-of-the-box installation of Microsoft Windows to be available for printing. The following typefaces are recommended:

Arial, Calibri, Courier New, Georgia, Tahoma, Times New Roman, Univers, Verdana

What kinds of image files can be used in posters?

You will achieve the best results by using JPEG images with a low compression setting.

My poster is great, except that I spelled "phenylketuronic" incorrectly. Do I still have to pay for this poster?

Yes. Unfortunately, the inks and paper for the large format printer are quite pricey, and we must charge for all prints made. We recommend very strongly that you proofread and revise your draft very carefully before bringing it to an appointment.

If my friend is ready to print her poster and I already have an appointment made, can I bring that in and get it printed at the same time?

When making your appointment, please specify the exact number of posters you'll want to print in your session so we can schedule the right amount of time to get the job done.

What storage media may I use to bring in my poster?

A USB flash drive is preferred, but you may also use a recordable CD or upload your poster to the Content Management section of your Blackboard account.

Do you provide tubes for transporting posters?

No, we do not. If you'd like one, the VCU Bookstore on the Monroe Park Campus as well as most area artist supply stores carry hard plastic transportation tubes that past patrons have found very helpful, particularly when carrying posters on commercial aircraft.

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