How to unroll large posters without creases? 7 proven methods
At ARTLIA, we offer posters without frames, framed posters, canvases, framed canvases, art prints, home accessories, as well as original paintings.
All products are packaged so that they can be hung up or used immediately.
The posters without frames are, however, rolled up very carefully and packed in sturdy triangular shipping boxes to prevent damage during transport.
If you particularly like a design, you naturally want to unroll the poster carefully and without creases – but often you encounter a first challenge.
Our posters are made of thicker material with high tension, which means they are difficult to lay out flat.
Especially with larger formats, it often happens that the poster folds in the middle or rolls back up when unrolled on its own.
Why is unfolding thick posters so difficult?
Unlike thin papers, thicker posters are stiffer and strongly “remember” the rolled-up shape.
This leads to:
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The poster keeps rolling up by itself.
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It takes strength and finesse to spread it out smoothly.
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If you work alone, the poster may crease in the middle or snap back.
Step 1: Preparation – set up workspace and weights
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Find a large, flat workspace, e.g., a table.
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Prepare several flat and heavy objects, such as thick books or wooden boards, to weigh down the corners and edges.
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If possible, work near a wall to be able to secure one side of the poster well.
Step 2: Secure the first corner immediately
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Place the poster with one corner against the wall or table edge.
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Secure this corner with a weight or your body so it doesn't slip anymore.
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This securing prevents the poster from rolling back up when unrolled.
Step 3: Roll against the rolling radius
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Carefully roll the poster in the opposite direction for 1-2 minutes to release the tension.
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This makes it easier to spread out later.
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Be careful not to put too much strain on the poster to avoid damage.
Step 4: Gradually unroll and secure
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Unroll the poster slowly and also place weights on the other corners.
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Work in steps: first one side, then the diagonally opposite corner, and finally the last corner.
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This prevents creases and the poster from rolling back up.
Step 5: Tip – Unfold with two people
You achieve the best result when you unfold the poster with two people:
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One person holds a corner securely.
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The other person slowly and carefully unrolls the poster on the opposite side.
This way, the force is better distributed, the poster does not roll back, and creases are avoided.
Step 6: Patience pays off
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Thick posters need time to lie completely flat.
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Leave the poster with the weights for at least 24 hours.
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Usually, the material smooths out by itself without heat.
Step 7: More tips
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Wear thin cotton gloves to avoid fingerprints.
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Avoid direct sunlight while unrolling.
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Store the poster in a warm place before unrolling to reduce tension.
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Use sturdy, heavy, and flat objects as weights – light items are less effective.
Conclusion
With these simple tips, you can safely and crease-free unfold your ARTLIA poster made of thicker material – and it will quickly show its full beauty.
Unfold with two people, fix the first corner, and work step by step – this guarantees success.
If you have any questions or would like an illustrated guide, we are always happy to help.
