How Much Does It Cost To Print Blueprints (in Large Format or Small)

We often work with engineers, architects, drafters, and other clients who need their drawings or blueprints printed so they have a portable, visual representation of how a building or project is to look.

Professional, large-scale printing is often among the first steps to making a concept become a reality. So, how much does it cost to print blueprints?

Blueprint printing costs are typically based on square feet and volume (the number of copies needed). You can expect to pay $2-$5 for a standard printout of a blueprint or line drawing. The cost will vary depending on the size printout you desire and whether it’s a one-off or a run.

B-CAD offers managed printing services including reprographics, digital printing services, and laminating services. Our prices are based on square feet but rachets down as volume increases. So for example, if someone came in and wanted a few copies of a 24×36 drawing, they could save as much as 48% by doing a volume order of more than 1,000 prints as opposed to buying just one print.

Keep reading to learn how you can better estimate printing costs for your business needs. We welcome you to contact us with any requests.

What paper are blueprints printed on?

Blueprints can be printed on professional-grade, rolled bond paper. This type of paper is great for use on a wide-format printer. The bond paper will come in various grades. For standard blueprints, a 20# bond is sufficient for architectural blueprint copies as well as most others.

A heavier grade may be needed if your blueprints need to be color copies rather than black-and-white.  The heavier the bond grade, the better your prints will look.

If higher quality copies are needed, blueprints will be printed on vellums or mylar paper. However, mylar paper is an option for black-and-white copies only. Mylar is a great option if you need to be able to use the printout as an overlay to draw revisions.

Occasionally, blueprints will be printed using Tyvek®, a synthetic paper made from polyethylene fibers. Tyvek is quite durable and water-resistant, so it lends itself well to use on the construction site and for use in areas where documents are used or stored in harsh environments.

We’d be happy to discuss your blueprint needs and help you decide which type of paper your blueprints should be printed on to best balance quality and cost.

What size blueprint should I print?

The size of your blueprint depends on your needs. We offer large format and small format printing.

Typically, large format prints range from 12” x 18” (commonly known as ARCH B) to 36” x 48” (known as called ARCH E).

Small format prints range from 8.5” x 11” (standard letter size) to 11” X 17” (standard poster or tabloid size).

BCAD supplies customizable blueprints available in industry-standard sizes, such as 18” x 24” and 24” by 36”, as well larger format, small format, and various engineering sheet sizes. We welcome you to send us your information, instructions, and file attachments.

Where can I print large blueprints?

While office supply stores do offer blueprint printing services, you’ll want to seek out a company experienced in large format blueprints to ensure professional, quality results.

B-CAD has been supporting architectural, engineering, construction, facility management, and various other industries since 1987. Hundreds of our customers are repeat customers, which means we deliver quality. In addition to our printing services, we offer CAD services and BIM modeling services, and other support for projects of all sizes in many industries.

We are in Wilmington, Delaware, and serve clients in New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas. Contact us today to discuss your blueprint printing needs.