What to know before you order a banner

Let’s talk about banners

What is there to know about banners you ask? Lots!

What Materials are available?

Fabric: Fabric banners come in a few different finishes with either a surface/spot print or a print throughout. Most fabric banners consist of a non-wrinkle polyester-poplin blend.

Vinyl: Vinyl banners can come in different weights (typically 10-18oz, with 13oz being the most common), composed primarily of scrap or recycled vinyl, some with string (titled scrim) throughout the vinyl to reinforce the banner. If a smoother finish is requested, banner without scrim is the way to go, it is also heavier.

Mesh: Mesh banners are best utilized for applications where the banner has to lay against something for a long period of time, this allows the wind to flow through it instead of grabbing hold of the whole banner. Mesh banner is a great option for a graphic to hang against a chain link fence for ballpark fields or construction sites.

Tradeshow: Tradeshow banners are a thicker and anti-curl solution to the vinyl banner. These types of banners are often used in mobile marketing type of presentations, typically with a retractable banner stand or a tradeshow booth. A retractable banner stand is a base that holds the banner up and after use rolls up into it like a reverse window shade. Vinyl banner can be used but tradeshow banner presents a tauter and more professional look. Tradeshow booths can be flat or curved and are also popular with fabric banners.

What size can I order?

Banners can be almost any size, although some printers are only so large. Some extremely large banners will consist of welded seams. There are basic sizes but any requested size can be accommodated for, including banners large enough to cover multi-story building walls.

Typical Banner sizes

What type of finishing is available?

Folded hems with grommets are the most common finishing option, providing versatile options to attach a banner to just about anything. The hems may be taped with high tack banner tape, heat-welded or sewn.

Pole pockets can be requested to allow use of wood dowels for hanging, another pole pocket can be added to the bottom to weigh the banner down with another dowel.

So what’s the process, how do I do this?

If you have an idea but no design, we can help provide consultation and design; otherwise clients typically send print ready files with vector images and outlined fonts and receive a proof (pre-press check) before they are sent to our printer. At Impression Signs and Graphics we use HP latex ink print technology. That technology allows the print to come off the printer dry and ready to use, as well as be environmentally friendly. Since latex ink is primarily made of water it addresses environmental and health concerns throughout its entire life from production to disposal. No ventilation is required as it contains no hazardous air pollutants as some other models may. Prints are safe to hang in healthcare and hospital areas. Latex prints also dry immediately meaning you have your printed items quicker than most traditional means of printing. From there we then finish your banner according to your request or needs and voila, you not only have a banner but you’re now a banner whiz.\

by: Apryl Cave