Looking for a way to transform your store window signs? Custom printed fabric store window signs are the quickest way to set your brand apart from the competition.
There’s nothing better than custom printed fabric store window signs and retail banners to turn heads. FLS Banners will help you introduce a new standard and boost your curb appeal. Consumers are visual, so getting their attention with a tailored fabric store window helps drive traffic to you.
The team at FLS Banners provides customization that counts. We specialize in printing high-quality custom fabric retail signs, custom fabric retail banners, custom printed fabric window displays, and custom printed fabric retail banners. In essence, we help bring your window display ideas to life. With large format printing, you can position your signs at eye level as a focal point for everyone to see.
Advantages of fabric signage includes easy switching with a change of promotion or season and lower shipping cost than rigid or vinyl signs. Additionally you can store seasonal graphics from year to year and ensure they will look great when you need to display them again.
Retail Window Signs for Storefronts
Never miss an opportunity to gain a new customer! Our custom printed fabric retail window signs bring advertising right to your door. Our team helps outfit your retail storefront with window signs that can be used both inside and outside to keep your brand alive.
Retail signage needs to make a statement to keep customers interested. Our graphic design solutions make sure you get foot traffic all day long. Created in a state-of-the-art modern production facility, each design is printed with cutting-edge digital dye-sublimation machinery.
We can reproduce a huge variety of color and designs on most fabrics, ensuring that your designs are one-of-a-kind. All printing is completed in the USA at our Wisconsin facility.
Finding a company that understands the nuances of marketing and getting to your target audience keeps your profits up and overhead down. What makes us unique? Our signs and banners are highly customizable and scalable with a quick, flexible turnaround. From major corporations to small businesses, we get the job done.
Retail Banner Types
Our retail banner types are designed to attract, engage, and convert all types of audiences. Different customers have different needs, so we offer a selection of fabrics and hardware to display your custom signs, and banners to support your brand. Operating a brick-and-mortar store can be challenging, but with the right custom printed fabric retail signs and window signs, every day can be a good one.
The process is simple. You can request a free quote or upload your design on the website. Someone from our team will contact you to help complete your order.
You can be confident in knowing we are the experts at what we do. With years of experience and tons of businesses standing behind our work, you’re in good hands.
Make a difference in what you present to the public with a custom printed fabric design whether it’s a retail banner, storefront window sign, or something else. We’re the most trusted fabric printer in the industry for over 40 years and counting.
Thanks to our status as a PPAI & SAGE member, we can easily and accurately print your business designs. Are you looking for the best? We have you covered!
Are you ready to take your signage to the next level? Connect with an associate or order customized store window signs and retail banners online now!
You can rest assure that our products are made in the USA. We believe in supporting American textile manufacturers and their employees. Our table covers are also designed, printed, cut and sewn the USA. By doing this, we don’t:
Incur extra costs that are passed on to customers from importation
Emit more harmful carbon into the atmosphere (because the fueling of large cargo ships don’t burn quality marine diesel, but dirtier, and less expensive, bunker fuel that leaves pollutants in their wake)
So you see, we can honestly claim: our flags, banners and table covers are made in the USA, and you can feel better about purchasing your next table covers from us.
Please see our table cover buying guide articles below for support.
When it comes to custom table covers, the options are endless and so are the applications. FLS Banners understands that with so many possibilities, a little help goes a long way.
Our table cover experts have compiled their best advice and suggestions for purchasing and using table covers. You can find answers to commonly asked questions within our Buyer’s Guide.
If you don’t see what you are looking for in our custom table covers guide please contact us. We are available to assist you with any questions you may have. Contact us today!
If you are looking to decide which size or fabric is best for you, we have helpful suggestions to inform you of the differences. Knowing exactly what style, size, and fabric material better suits your table will make selecting your cover a whole lot easier.
When it comes to design, there is a lot of thought that goes into the process. However, the finished product typically garners ample attention. To help you create an impressive cover design, FLS Banners provides a chart that contains a staggering 80 colors to choose from, a handy design checklist and template suggestion, as well as several options to submit your own design and artwork. All design methods and printing options are explained in our Buyer’s Guide.
Learn what you need to know to turn your bare table into a colorful work of art that shows off your brand!
Choosing the Right Size
Need help picking the right custom table cover size for your table? Depending on what kind of table you have and the dimensions of that table, you need a table cover that properly fits. Using the right size cover is important in order to have full table coverage, display your artwork correctly, and not drag on the floor. Here are some tips:
First look through your trade show and event materials to see if you are offered multiple table sizes or just one size.
In our experience, the most common sized tables are:
6 ft and 8 ft length tables with a 30 inch wide top and stand 30 inches in height.
A 4 ft length table with a 2 ft wide top. Note, these tables are sometimes adjustable in height (22 inches, 29 inches & 36 inches.
If you don’t know the exact size, purchase a table throw for greater flexibility. Or, make it easy on yourself and order an adjustable table cover.
No matter what tablecloth size you may need for your next event, FLS Banners can back you up. If the length of the table cover drop is important to you, be sure to choose a fabric that allows more leeway to the floor.
Do you need assistance with choosing the right table cover size? Contact FLS Banners today, we look forward to helping you in the creation process!
CHOOSING THE RIGHT FABRIC
When creating your own custom table cover, factors such as size and style are important, depending on the kind of table you plan to use. It may not be apparent, but the fabric of a table cover is just as important in the completion of the custom table cover overall. Because different fabric table covers offer different advantages, our customers value some advice before ordering a fabric table cover or personalized table skirt. We hope you will too.
Advice For Choosing The Right Fabric for Your Table Cover
Knit Polyester is our best selling premium fabric. From an overall functional standpoint, knit polyester really delivers the best function and quality. Knit polyester is wrinkle-resistant, lightweight, and naturally flame retardant. Many venues require flame retardant materials which make knit polyester a solid choice.
Fire retardant (FR) knit polyester is our most popular fabric due to its durability, easy maintenance, flame retardant yarn, and excellent printability. Additionally, FR knit polyester is good for the environment because it comes from post-industrial and consumer recycled plastic, and it’s designed for long-term wear.
Poly Poplin is our economy fabric and is a great choice for any indoor or outdoor event due to the many positive qualities, including: durability, wrinkle resistance, stain resistance, quick drying and easy ironing.
Contour Stretch is a modern take on a table cover that fits snug around the table and is the latest on trend. For good reason too, the contour stretch fabric offers a smooth, sleek look—and with its special polyester material, the perfect canvas for displaying full-color imagery that really pops.
An FLS Banners table cover is more than a tablecloth, it is a billboard, a brand ambassador, and the foundation for new connections to be made. Don’t leave your table bare, contact FLS Banners to find out more about custom table covers.
DESIGN CHECKLIST & TEMPLATES
FLS Banners is proud to offer an impressive array of options when creating a custom table cover. From color, to design, size, style, and fabric, you can be confident that your table will have the perfect display. With a new custom table cover, the next trade show or event you go to is sure to draw a crowd!
We make it easy for you. Thanks to multiple fabric colors to choose from and screen and digital print options, we can match and deliver great custom designs for your table. So go ahead and be creative: Use front panel print or full coverage print for your custom table cover.
If you’re shooting for a simple cover design using one or two spot colors or simple halftones then screen printing on knit polyester will be your best bet. The method produces a clean, durable imprint and is most economical for a larger quantity of custom table covers.
If you’re aiming for a more complex design using 3 or more colors, or 4-color printed designs, try our DyeLux™ digital printing method. It prints directly onto white knit polyester and actually dyes the design right into its fibers. If you want an eye-popping display table, our custom printing is the way to go. Impress the crowd at your next event!
Design Submission Checklist and Recommendations
Here’s a checklist for submitting your art:
Convert all fonts to outlines or include fonts used in upload.
Use vector art when possible (.ai, .eps, .pdf)
Embed all links (between 96-300 DPI at size
Use solid coated PANTONE (PMS) if color matches are critical
When using an FLS Template file (see below), please turn OFF the template layer.
Do you need assistance with creating a custom table cover? Contact us today!
CUSTOM TABLE COVER PRINTING OPTIONS
You can expect quality assurance throughout the process when ordering custom table covers, printed table throws, table drapes and more. FLS Banners makes an otherwise tricky process simple and quick. A custom display sends the message that your brand is serious. If you have a trade show or event and need a fresh look for your booth table, contact FLS Banners to get your printed table cover!
How It Works
When you request an estimate using our Quote Form, expect a written estimate within the hour during business hours, M-F 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Central Time.
Sign the estimate and fax it back to us. If you don’t have access to a fax, send an email with your consent.
Then we will produce a layout that confirms your design layout. This will be emailed to you for approval. Allow up to 48 hours for this step.
Next, we will professionally produce your order; verify it matches your request then ship per your instructions.
Vector vs. Bitmap Art and Image Size for Table Covers
The normal image size on our table covers is 24″ X 48″. We can print larger when required but there would be an additional charge.
Many times we will get art like that is a low resolution .gif file. It may have been copied from a website, used for interoffice memos or stationary.
Bitmap art can have many file extensions, .gif, .tif, .jpg, .jpeg, .psd, .eps are some of the most popular. Programs like Adobe PhotoShop are used to create bitmap art.
While a low-resolution file will display nicely on your computer monitor, there will be problems when the image is enlarged to the proper size for the table cover.
Left is that same .gif file enlarged only 4 times. The edges are getting steppy, or jagged because bitmap art is described in your computer as pixels or square dots that make up the design. When the design is enlarged, the pixels enlarge and you begin to see the “jaggies” appear.
This is an extreme example, and certainly, bitmap art can be used for many large designs, but the key is size and resolution. If you can only send a bitmap file try to send one that is at least 5″ X 10″ and 600 pixels per inch. This will be a file that is about 18M, or 18,000kb. Files this large are best sent to our FTP site, call for login and password information.
Outline Example
Another way to create an art file is called vector art. In this design, the objects are described in your computer as outlines rather than pixels. When these files are scaled up to any size, there is no loss of edge quality. Adobe Illustrator, CorelDraw, and FreeHand are some programs that are used to create vector art.
There is no easy push-button way to create vector art from bitmap art. If all you have available is a bitmap, we will have to re-draw it, we do charge for this service, but you can have a copy of the new file if you want it.
When vector art is colored, the shape is simply filled in with the proper PMS (Pantone Matching System) color and you have a file that can be printed at any size and always looks crisp and clean.
Even better, a full sized (24″ X 48″ for table covers) vector art file will still only be around 2 – 4 M, a nice small file, easy to email.
We hope this discussion will help you get the best looking table covers possible. If you have questions please contact us.
REQUEST A QUOTE PROCESS
You can expect quality assurance throughout the process when requesting a quote for printed table throws, table drapes and more.
When you request an estimate using our Request A Quote Form, expect a written estimate within the hour during business hours, M-F 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Central Time.
When the estimate is received, sign the estimate and fax it back to us. If you don’t have access to a fax, send an email with your consent.
Then we will produce a layout that confirms your design layout. This will be emailed to you for approval. Allow up to 48 hours for this step.
Next, we will professionally produce your order; verify it matches your request then ship per your instructions.
Our process is safe for the environment; safe for workers.
Who knew hazardous inks and dyes can make fabric printing unhealthy for workers and for the environment? Who knew certain screen printing methods that use mass amounts of water in the dying of the fabric can result in polluted waste water and ground contamination? As a 30-year leader in green printing, we certainly have understood the hazards and have always responded with greener options.
Early on, we led the way for green printing methods that would have less of an environmental impact. Take our early lead in water-based screen printing in the 1970s; followed by Table Covers refined digital printing on fabric with our DyeLux™ print process. This dye-sublimation, aqueous-based method is one of the most environmentally-friendly and sustainable processes for digital fabric printing because it:
Uses dyes rather harsh solvents that can output Ozoneink-fabric-certifications.png damaging VOCs and heavy metals
Works with inks that comply with OEKO-TEX® 10 and the ECO-passport certifications
Turns a solid directly to a gas, avoiding water for dying process
Either recycles printing transfer paper or eliminates need altogether depending on equipment used
Reduces all use of water for a true green printing process
And produces zero waste
No VOCs in Our Digital Fabric Printing By us combining the right raw materials and choosing environmentally friendly processes, we are true green printers. We avoid use of VOCs or Volatile Organic Compounds, which are a group of carbon-based chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature. Besides found in some inks used for fabric printing, they can be in an assortment of building materials like varnishes, sealing caulks, home air fresheners and the process of dry cleaning. Studies suggest that exposure to these chemicals can bring health consequences.
With us, you can feel good about your purchasing decision—and love the finished product, too. Check out Textile Printing Eco-Friendly blog
SEG is short for silicone edge graphics. These high-resolution graphics are printed using dye sublimation technology onto fabric panels. Silicone is sewn around the edges of the frame, thus the name. Each SEG panel is fitted into an aluminum extruded frame, customized to your design. SEG frames are often LED backlit, the result is a stunning display. Because SEG panels are interchangeable, they are also a flexible marketing tool.
From trade show displays to storefronts to street ads, nothing matters more to in-person publicity than standing out. The most effective ads are always the ones that lie on the cutting edge, using the most advanced printing technology to distinguish themselves. The more advanced your designs, the crisper, bolder, and more realistic the result, producing an image no one will forget.
SEG represents the best in modern signage. Through this innovative fabric printing technology, you can produce images that truly stand out and leave an enduring impression on any audience.
How Do SEG Frames Work?
This sign technology works by taking a tension fabric and sublimating it with dye, solvent, ultraviolet light, or latex. After sublimation, a thin gasket of silicone is sewn through the fabric’s edge. This has the effect of creating an image that looks continuous, as if the viewer were witnessing a live scene rather than a still picture.
What Are the Benefits of SEG Frames?
SEG frames offer a number of advantages compared to standard direct print graphics, including:
High Quality – Not only do SEG frames have photographic quality and a continuous look, but they’re resistant to glare. They also won’t fade for years, and because the dye is sublimated directly into the fabric, there’s no risk of peeling or cracking. This gives you a beautiful, realistic image that will stand the test of time.
Background Flexibility – SEG frames can be installed against a wide range of surfaces, making them suitable for virtually any application. Whether you need to set up a freestanding storefront sign, mount an image against a wall, or hang an exhibit or display sign, SEG technology can meet your needs.
Varied Customizability – SEG frames can be used on a myriad of fabrics large and small, and can produce virtually any image. They’re also relatively inexpensive to make and easy to transport, which means you can quickly produce, supplement, and redistribute ads in tandem with your advertising needs. No matter how little notice you have, you’ll be able to take full advantage of advertising opportunities whenever and wherever they arise.
Glowing Presentation – SEG frames do not require lighting but can easily accommodate it. By installing SEG frames onto an LED light box, you can produce a glowing, ethereal image that is certain to impress potential customers.
How Do I Use SEG Frames?
SEG framing starts with choosing your image and a fabric type to display it. Once you’ve had the image printed on the fabric, take whatever board or other display item you’re mounting the image on, place the fabric over that board, and tuck each corner of the fabric into the corresponding corner of the board.
Then tuck the centers of each side under the board, making sure the silicon strip is facing inward toward the rest of the fabric as you tuck it in. Smooth out all the corners and you have a bold, realistic image!
Design and order your custom SEG frames today with FLS Banners!
Custom printed fabric lets you transform fabric items into unique works of art. Whether you print your own fabric for shirts with your company logo or yards of fabric with personalized designs, the opportunities to use custom printed fabric are nearly endless.
Choosing a Fabric Type
When you learn how to design custom printed fabric, you can create fabric marketing items of all types. But first, you must decide the right fabric for your needs.
You can choose a spandex or polyester fabric that gives the material stretch in all directions. Or, you can choose a fabric with a shiny finish to give your finished product extra flare. Perhaps you need a heavy fabric for a banner or drape. Tapestry or brushed velvet could fit the bill well.
The FLS Banners team can help you with fabric selection to ensure that your finished design meets the functional and aesthetic needs you have.
How Does Custom Fabric Printing Work?
At FLS Banners, we have a unique printing process to help you create custom printed fabric for your project. We have a state-of-the-art facility that can print on fabrics of most types.
When you are ready to order your custom fabric printing, all you need to do is provide your own custom designs. Or, you can find an artwork or graphic you love and purchase the rights to reproduce it. You can also create your own graphic from your logo or in-house art. Upload your digital graphic using our easy online system, and we will get started.
Our dye sublimation process puts the ink into a gaseous state. We then impress the gaseous ink into the fabric. This creates a smooth image that is embedded directly into the material producing a vivid, vibrant color.
The final image is fully washable and has better durability than UV printing, especially for polyester fabrics. With UV printing, the final image feels more like an overlay or sticker and can turn rigid with multiple washes.
Once you have approved your final design and fabric choice, we will print your custom fabric. We can print custom fabric in all sizes, from large orders for national manufacturers, to small orders for your small to medium business. Our digital printing process is fast and easy, with a quick turnaround.
What’s Next?
If you’re ready to work on your custom printed fabric, FLS Banners is ready to help. We have a team standing by to help you design your custom banners and get them printed for you quickly. We also have lightning-fast shipping options, as well as dropshipping to send your items directly to the intended recipient.
The length of time it takes to print and ship your order will vary depending on the size and complexity of your order. Many can be ready in just 48 hours, and the average production time is about three days.
Custom printed fabric is easy with help from FLS Banners.
FLS Banners is an experienced printing and custom banner company that is a PPAI and SAGE member. Our customer service team is ready to assist you with your graphic design. Reach out today to start printing your own custom fabric.
As the leader in digitally printed custom fabric, FLS Banners offers a unique opportunity to impress your customers. Our custom fabric printing services provide your business with tailor-made marketing assets that promote your brand. Countless brands, including the likes of Tesla, Microsoft, American Express, GM, and Starbucks have used our fabric printing services. Let us help you create the custom printed products you envision.
FLS Banners has been innovating businesses with custom fabric printing solutions since 1974. We offer unparalleled experience, cutting-edge printing technology, and order flexibility. Thanks to our scalability, we can provide one-off orders and bulk wholesale solutions. We arePPAI and SAGE members with a strong commitment to producing our products in an eco-friendly manner.
What Does FLS Banners Do?
FLS Banners is a custom fabric printing company that offers printing solutions for businesses looking to stand out. Our state-of-the-art printing technology is capable of creating anything from custom printed advertising banners, event trade show marketing, to home decor and apparel.
Digital fabric printing accurately replicates your designs, colors and brand logo. We are able to offer fine, detailed patterns that are specific to your design, along with fabric by the yard with unparalleled color quality.
We work with businesses of all sizes to complete when you need to order custom fabric printed on short notice. Looking for dropshipping services? FLS Banners is the perfect answer to complete your supply chain.
For wholesale ordering, FLS Banners can fulfill large quantities. Because we are a PPAI and SAGE member, order fulfillment is efficiently streamlined. Orders can be purchased within your own client site.
Who Benefits from Custom Fabric Printing?
Anyone looking to provide their audience with colorful, detailed, and sharp fabric marketing assets to enjoy. We work with:
Small businesses, such as brick-and-mortar stores and boutiques
Large corporations for event, tradeshow, marketing and other PR initiatives
Big brands looking for unique and custom soft advertising in airports, malls, or window displays
Franchises who need high quality custom fabric printed assets and materials
Designers and artists looking to print their artwork on fabric products for home decor, apparel or more
Online stores, such as Etsy stores or other dropshipping businesses
We are able to supply detailed fabric designs to just about anyone. FLS Banner is there regardless of your business size or printing needs. We take your company from design to print, so you get what you want, when you want it — guaranteed.
What Makes FLS Banners Unique?
Our 100 percent USA operations mean a fast turnaround time and quick shipping. We guarantee our work, manufacturing and printing at our Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin facility. FLS Banners can produce what your business needs on-demand, whether it’s thousands of printed items or just a handful.
Businesses with backgrounds in textile production, in addition to design and decoration, are apt to inch out beyond their traditional offerings every once in a while. And if it makes sense—financially as well as physically—they may consider expanding.
Sometimes adding a new application doesn’t take much, as it fully complements what a company already produces in-house. A bonus is when the same customers also benefit from the introduction and add it to their weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly job orders.
Depth of History
Founded in 1972 by William and Cynthia Goettelman, FLS Banners remains a family-orientated business to this day. Based in Sturgeon Bay, WI, a staff of 20 operates out of two facilities totaling over 20,000 square feet of manufacturing and fulfillment space. It reaches customers as far as Australia, the Caribbean, Europe, and South America, but its current focus is on North American clients.
Customers include display houses, brand agencies, print brokers, direct end-users requesting custom printed textiles for trade shows, point of purchase advertising, and on-demand custom branded apparel and home furnishings.
Offering textile-based printing services since the 1970s, FLS evolved into a complete solutions provider with in-house manufacturing and fulfillment. It started with traditional print methods like screenprinting and then added digital sublimation, and more recently implemented digital pigment printing.
“Our depth of history allows us the ability to solve challenges based on experience as well as creating unique solutions to clients’ needs,” explains Cain Goettelman, president, FLS.
In 1999, FLS converted its first digital printer to use in-house manufactured sublimation ink. Two decades later, it relies on digital printers equipped with Konica Minolta and Kyocera Corporation printheads that print on media up to 3.2 meters in width. The company utilizes JK Group’s J-Teck consumables for its sublimation-based ink, with consistency the standout feature.
FLS works directly with yarn suppliers, mills, and finishing companies to create a series of textiles offering performance and value. “One of the many benefits FLS offers its clients is the ability to develop solutions. This development extends well into our supply chain and includes textile manufacturing. While managing a complex supply chain does require additional resources, our clients appreciate the benefits it creates and the ultimate value to the end-user,” says Goettelman.
One of the many textile applications it offers is silicone edge graphics (SEG). About ten percent of FLS’ annual volume consists of SEG without fixtures. However, it also produces replacement graphics for many LED framing manufacturers, including Agam Group, Matrix Frame USA, SEG Systems, and Testrite Visual.
Measuring Matters
Based on years of experience producing SEG, Goettelman shares that one must address three factors to yield a successful digitally printed SEG panel. The first is to measure the frame accurately. FLS has a process it shares with its clients to ensure the correct frame measurements. The second factor is whether the frame will use LED lights. As they are common, it is vital to verify use because it impacts output profiles, which is related to the final point.
“You need a profile for both backlit and non-backlit displays. Understanding what the client expects in terms of output is crucial. Are they looking for accuracy of skin tones and reproductions of their products, or do they need matches to corporate color standards?” asks Goettelman.
“There is nothing more frustrating for your client than receiving an SEG that doesn’t fit the frame. The ease of changing a graphic is a key selling feature of an SEG frame. It is up to us to live up to that expectation,” he adds.Measuring once, twice, and three times repeatedly happens while producing SEG panels at FLS. First during the prepress proofing stages and then after printing and finishing. It is necessary to verify the panel’s dimensions after cutting since there is “no sense in sewing a panel if the size is not correct,” according to Goettelman. After sewing the keder around the graphic’s edge, we measure one last time.
Today and Beyond
The range of environments using SEG illustrates its popularity. “SEG panels are ideal for locations rented advertising space, such as airports, stadiums, and performing art venues. Retail locations, from department stores to boutiques, use them to highlight featured brands, offer, and create customer awareness. A prime location is storefront windows because the backlight enhances the visibility day and night,” suggests Goettelman.
All of these locations and the buyers who place them recognize the benefits of SEG. Key advantages, according to Goettelman, focus on the simplicity of changing and storing the graphics, the high-end appearance, and the savings on the shipping because SEG prints are so lightweight.
Because of all of these advantages, SEG is growing beyond its initial intent. Besides basic four-sided frames, there are now pop-up frames, counters, and modular configurable booths that create different shapes and sizes. The modularity factor is something that Goettelman believes will be critical going forward.
“Flexibility is going to be very important when trade shows return. We are expecting wider aisles, smaller booths, and the ability to reuse your display rather than build an entirely new booth, which will provide big cost savings,” he foresees.
Detail Orientated
FLS is well known for its attention to detail, ensuring each SEG panel’s perfect construction for the frame. Satisfying one client at a time has led to success in several different applications, not just SEG display, and will serve it well in future endeavors.
Does 2020 mean a trade show is on the docket for your business? If you’re preparing for the upcoming trade show season, you need to start planning early. It’s best to start your preparations about six months before the event, and tackle several steps along the way. Looking for trade show display products or fabric? Contact our pro team at FLS Banners, we would be happy to help you get the custom printed trade show products you need. With this handy trade show checklist, you can be confident that you are well prepared for your next event.
Start Here: Planning 6 Months Out
At the six month mark, you are ready to start planning your event. Here are the steps to take about six months before your event.
Define your goal
First, determine what you want to accomplish with your trade show. Decide three key objectives that you want to accomplish. These will be unique to your business.
Set the budget
Next, decide how much you are willing to spend to reach those goals. This will depend on the current state of your business, and it will drive the rest of your trade show preparation checklist, so be specific. Make sure you leave room for necessary promotional materials and booth materials.
Book the show
If you don’t already have a trade show venue, now is the time to start looking. If you will have to travel distance to the show, check with the show website for deals on hotels and flights. Today many tradeshows book blocks of rooms and offer discount prices for booking through the show website. Also, check to see if there are any special requirements for getting your display into the show. If you are shipping directly to the show, your booth may have to arrive by a specific date to avoid extra fees.
Start planning your booth
Between five and six months before your first trade show, pull out your checklist for the exhibition booth. This gives you time to order tablecloths, backdrop displays, marketing materials, and other supplies to make your event successful. You will want to review your current display and make sure your key product/service is featured on at least one focal point in the booth. This is a great way to start a conversation with a current client and to draw prospects in.
Order promotional items.
About four months before the first trade show, put in your order for your promotional items, especially if you will be sending fliers or other notifications about your participation in the event. FLS Banners works with customers to deliver within even the shortest of deadlines. Here are a few of our most popular items:
As soon as you know the event date, start shopping for airline tickets or make other travel arrangements. If you are carrying your display with you sure to find out when setup starts. Many of our products require minimal setup time; however, you always want to leave yourself plenty of time to account for any unknowns. The worst thing that can happen is you finish early and you can spend the afternoon at the pool.
Create a packing checklist.
Determine the things you are going to need for every trade show, and make a written trade show booth checklist. Don’t forget things like first aid supplies, tape, and extension cords.
Getting Closer: One Month to 2 Weeks Out
As the trade show gets closer, your trade show planning checklist gets busier. Here are some things to put on your “to do” list as you move within two weeks of the event.
Double-check your trade show checklist
Pull it out and make sure there aren’t any things you have overlooked.
Talk with the people who will be manning your booth to ensure they are aware of what their objectives are.
Order printed literature
It takes about a week to have promotional materials printed locally, so order early so you have time to make changes, if needed.
Prepare lead packets
Have packets of information to hand to leads at the trade show.
Almost Time: 1 Week to the Day Before
Pack your bag Pull out the trade show planning checklist you made earlier, and make sure all of the items are packed inside a bag.
Prepare a document packet.
You will want contact information for local vendors, staff that will be coming with you and staying behind, and contact information for your accommodations and the venue itself. If you need art or files to print more promotional materials if you run out, add this to your document packet. Have both digital and paper options with you.
Send your trade show materials ahead
If you aren’t bringing you trade show materials with you personally, send them ahead and verify their arrival.
Make a checklist for trade show exhibitors.
If you are sending someone else to do the trade show, make sure they are armed with a trade show booth checklist that has all of the details they will need to set up, display, and take down your trade show materials.
Showtime: The Day Of
Arrive at the venue early.
Make sure you have plenty of time to set up your booth. You may run into unexpected problems, like needing a longer extension cord, so do not cut yourself short on time. Plan for traffic and getting lost if you are showing at a new venue.
Consult the trade show setup checklist.
This will help ensure you do not forget a critical component of your booth setup and design.
Show your stuff.
You’ve spent the last six months planning. Now’s your time to shine. Since you used a checklist for trade show exhibitors, you will be well prepared to do your best.
Follow-Up: After the Show
Pack things up carefully.
When the show is done, take the time to pack carefully so you do not damage your trade show materials and booth supplies.
Follow up.
Gather the information from the leads you made. Plan your follow up, whether it is phone calls, emails, or letters. If you have a sales team, pass those leads on to the sales team to start the follow-up process.
Evaluate your costs.
Add up what you spent and compare it to the budget you set. Was your budget accurate? Were there areas you could save money? How could you improve for future trade shows?
Evaluate your trade show checklist.
Was there something missing from your trade show exhibitor checklist? Did you forget to pack something that should be added to your checklist for exhibition booths? What mistakes could have been avoided with better planning? Add to or take away from your trade show planning checklist as needed.
Prepare for Your Trade Show Booth with the Right Products
A critical part of your trade show booth checklist is the materials you use for your booth. From tablecloths to the displays themselves, you can’t have a successful trade show without the right exhibition supplies.
Do you need advice on selecting promotional items for your event booth? FLS Banners offers many options for table covers, banner flags, backdrop displays, and more.
Table Covers – Choose from 4ft, 6ft, or 8ft table cloths, then choose your table cover style: fitted, open back, closed back, stretch or contour, adjustable, or table runners.
Flags – Feather or banner flags are available in small, medium, or large sizes. Flag shapes include convex, concave, teardrop, or swooper. Flag poles, stands, and carry bags are available!
Banners/Displays – Banner displays can be essential to any event booth. Let us help you design the perfect backdrop for your next event. We offer retractable banners, pop up banners, as well as stands, mounting hardware, and durable carry bags.
Display Kits and Event Tents – Save time and select from our booth display kits that can be custom printed to your specifications. Add your logo and designs to backdrops, banners, and table covers. For outdoor events, make your booth complete with a custom-printed tent to match your tablecloth.
FLS Banners has a huge selection of trade show booth products for your next event. Check them out as you prepare your checklist today!
When it comes to tables for displays and trade shows, 6-foot and 8-foot tables are the most popular sizes. These large tables provide plenty of room to showcase your product and display materials. When you need a platform for your brand at a convention or exhibition, these table cover sizes are likely the best options.
To make your trade show area stand out, you will need the right custom tablecloth to make your booth pop! If you have 8-foot or 6-foot tables, FLS Banners same size table covers that will add a professional look with all over printing or simple custom logo printing to ensure quality branding and advertising.
Why use six-foot tables? Six-foot tables are a popular table size for display and trade show booths. They are long enough for most displays, yet petite enough to fit well in a smaller booth area, these tables are commonly used for events of all types. The average trade show booth space is 10’x10’. A 6’ table will fit nicely in this space with room for attendees to be welcomed in, not passing you by.. If you have extra space than 10 feet, an 8 foot table should work wonderfully, giving you more surface area to show off your promotional items.
The final piece that will make your trade show booth and tables look professional and complete is a custom printed table cover. Now that you have your size, let’s pick your custom table cloth style! From fitted, to draped or contour, all of our covers are fully customizable with full-color logo printing, so you can showcase your brand in style.
What Size Table Cover for a 6-Foot Table?
The size of your 6-foot table cover will vary depending on the cut and the type of fabric used. In general, a 6-foot table requires a 70-inch by 108-inch tablecloth, which will reach about to the floor. At FLS Banners, we cut our custom tablecloths to fit the standard 30-inch tall tables, as well as bar height and demo or counter height tables. They are designed to hang an inch above the floor, so they will come from the tabletop to the floor without actually dragging. This gives you a professional look and will hide items stored below the table but without being frustratingly long. This also protects them from bunching, which hurts the overall look of the tablecloth and keeps them from getting dirty.
Uses for 6-Foot Table Covers
Six-foot tables are used for many different purposes, but you can often find these tables as part of trade show displays. They may pop up in stores showcasing a particular sale item. Schools may use them to display after-school clubs or other extra-curricular activities in the hallway to entice students to sign up. No matter where they are used, they all have one thing in common, and that is the need for a cover. If you want your cover to be personalized and professional, choose a custom option from FLS Banners.
Types of 6-Foot and 8-Foot Table Cover Styles
At FLS Banners, we understand that different companies have different goals for the look of their branding materials. That’s why we offer many different types of tables when you’re in the market for 6-foot or 8-foot table covers. Whether you want a fitted, modern look or a traditional draped look, you will find something to fit. Some of our options include:
Fitted – Fitted table covers fit snugly around the top of the table. This seamless look falls in a straight line from the tabletop to the floor, creating a box-like appearance. It does not have wrinkles or seams, so the entire look is streamlined. This allows your logo to stand out.
Contour– Contour table covers are made from stretchy fabric that pulls taut across the table and legs. This creates a contoured look that is quite modern and chic. It can help your tables to stand out because it’s slightly different from the standard look commonly used.
Throw and Drapes – Throw and drape table covers envelope the table on three sides, leaving the back open. They drape across the front and sides, so they do create some folds and draping. These are a great choice if you will be storing items under your table that you need access to throughout your event. Drapes and throws fit loosely over the table, giving you the traditional draped tablecloth look. These are available as either seamless or traditional options, depending on the look you want for your display.
Runners – Runners sit on top of your tablecloths to display your logo. These are a more economical option if you already have plain tablecloths and want a custom printed option, but don’t want to replace the entire tablecloth.
What Size Table Cover for an 8-Foot Table?
When buying a table cover, you want it to be long enough to extend the length of the table and hang over the sides to completely cover to the floor, but you don’t want it to drag on the floor. You also don’t want to come up short, because it’s helpful to be able to store some items below the table during your event. At FLS Banners, we stock 8-foot table covers designed for 96-inch long tables.
The material your table cover is made from and the amount of stretch that material has will dictate how long it needs to be. Typically, a table cover to cover an 8-foot table needs to measure 70 inches by 126 inches. At FLS Banners, we cut our table covers to measure 29 inches from top to bottom, so they perfectly cover a standard 8-foot table measuring 30 inches from floor to tabletop without dragging on the floor. In addition to the 30 inch height, we also offer bar height and demo height 8-foot table covers.
Uses for 8-Foot Table Covers
Table covers and table runners have many potential uses. Trade show booths are rarely complete without a table cover that brings the look together. Table covers with your logo can also be put out at parties, for sale displays, and at other events where you might be marketing. Custom Tablecloths create a pulled-together, finished look that keeps your brand consistent as you strive to keep your branding consistent, no matter what type of event you are heading to.
Types of 8 Foot Table Covers
At FLS Banners, we understand that size is not your only consideration when shopping for 8-foot table covers. That’s why we offer a wide variety of table covers for your consideration. Each is available with full-color printing of your logo or other design, so you can showcase your product or service well at your next event. Here is a closer look at the 8-foot table cover options available at FLS Banners
Shop 8-Foot and 6-Foot Table Covers Now!
If your business has 6-foot or 8-foot tables for your display and trade show booths, you need the right covers. Custom printed covers with your logo will help your display stand out in a crowded trade show or other event. FLS Banners have many different styles and colors to choose from. Start shopping today, and add custom printed 6-foot and 8-foot table covers to your display.
At the six month mark, you are ready to start planning your event. Here are the steps to take about six months before your event.
As the trade show gets closer, your trade show planning checklist gets busier. Here are some things to put on your “to do” list as you move within two weeks of the event.
Arrive at the venue early.
The size of your 
When buying a table cover, you want it to be long enough to extend the length of the table and hang over the sides to completely cover to the floor, but you don’t want it to drag on the floor. You also don’t want to come up short, because it’s helpful to be able to store some items below the table during your event. At FLS Banners,