Trade Show Graphics, the Fabric of Your Exhibit

Graphics are one of the most important elements of any tradeshow exhibit. They set the tone of your exhibit, and determine how your company will be perceived. You want to select graphics that will not only reinforce your company's brand image, but effectively communicate to your audience what your company or product can do for them as well.

One of the best ways to captivate your audience's attention is to use appealing graphics. You can use graphics to create interest and depth within your exhibit, which makes it more visually stimulating. To really amplify your message your tradeshow graphics should have excellent color, clarity, and detail. These three crucial elements are easily achieved when high-end quality graphics are used.

Innovations in tradeshow graphics continue to provide better mediums for displaying quality graphics. Fabric has been introduced as a great alternative to traditional exhibit graphics. For instance, today the older styles of inkjet-laminated panels are being replaced with more durable fabric graphics. Many exhibitors are making the switch to fabric graphics because they offer a number of benefits to the user, and they eliminate the possibility of glare or scratched finishes. A softer more elegant look can be achieved with fabric graphics, which makes them more appealing for interior displays.

Although the practice of using fabric graphics is still relatively new, there are a couple of ways to have your images printed. Images can be created through a dye sublimation process or a direct printing process.

With a dye sublimation process, the ink is permanently bonded to polyester fibers with a heat transfer. Photographic images look more realistic with this form of printing because the colors are not laid down as individual dots as they are with inkjet printers. However, there is a downside to this process since it can only be used on polyester fabrics.

Direct printing should be used if sharper brilliant images are desired because dye sublimation creates softer muted images. Direct printing use a steam process to embed the ink into the fabric, and can be used on fabrics like silk and cotton. Because this process prints the image directly onto the substrate it is highly recommended for durability.

There are many benefits to using fabric graphics since they eliminate many of the traditional trade show graphics problems. They are a durable, lightweight, versatile, and affordable medium for displaying quality color graphics.

Fabric graphics are so durable that they can be stored easily and reused again and again. They can even be machine washed or dry cleaned depending on the fabric and printing process. These graphics are a great display investment because many are wrinkle, stain, and fade resistant. The usual concerns that are associated with vinyl graphics are no longer an issue when fabric is chosen. Wrinkles can easily be removed from fabrics with an iron, and there is no need to worry about the substrate cracking as vinyl does with repeated use. Choosing a heavy weight fabric will increase the lifespan of your graphics because a thicker fabric can be displayed more often without showing wear as easily.

Since fabric graphics are so lightweight, they make transportation, drayage, and storage simple. These graphics can also be folded and packed into compact cases and stored in smaller spaces than those usually required by other types of graphic panels. Because they are lighter and take up much less space than other types of traditional tradeshow graphics fabric graphics are extremely portable. This makes them great for exhibiting anywhere.

Fabric graphics offer more versatility than laminated panels ever could. They allow you to capture different moods and looks by varying textures and opacities. Some fabrics have translucent properties, which provide the opportunity for backlighting as an extra element in design. There are also endless shape and size possibilities. They are more suitable for interior displays, whereas vinyl is better for exterior promotions. Vinyl can sometimes appear to look cheap when indoors, but fabric creates a more elegant appearance.

Since fabric graphics can be packed compactly, they can save you money on storage fees as well as transportation and drayage charges. This helps to make large-scale graphics more affordable for exhibitors with smaller budgets. The use of fabric graphics can also save your budget by extending the life of your tradeshow exhibit. Instead of buying a new exhibit, you can simply use fabric graphics to dress up or change the look of your current exhibit.

There is also an added element of safety to be aware of when you choose fabric graphics for your exhibit. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has certain regulation codes for the use of fabric structures at tradeshows and conventions so you want to be sure that your graphics comply with these regulations. Be sure that all fabric graphics that you use are made from flame retardant materials.

Fabric graphics have begun to make a place for themselves at exhibitions with the introduction of tension fabric displays. Fabric is a great medium to use for any type of tradeshow exhibit. Hanging signs made with fabric provide a lightweight piece that can help to extend the height of a display. Many popups are now made with multiple or single fabric panels which make set up and storage a snap because the graphics do not have to be removed and reattached for each use. Fabric graphics can also add movement and elegance to banners, and can even create unique structures with dramatic flair. Design possibilities for tradeshow exhibits are endless when fabric graphics are incorporated.

Although fabric graphics may initially be more expensive than other traditional tradeshow graphics, they are a great investment for exhibitors to make. The durability of these graphics alone makes them worth buying since they offer more repeat use. However, the limitless design possibilities of fabric graphics continues to increase their popularity because exhibitors are constantly trying to keep there image fresh and up to date. Consider using fabric graphics for your next tradeshow exhibit if you want a durable, lightweight, versatile, and affordable medium that you can count on to effectively portray your company's image.