What is signage?

Signage is a graphic display that signifies a more complex meaning. Signage can be created from icons, images, words, or a combination of all three. Signage is typically created at a large size so it can be easily viewed and recognized at a distance. Common uses of signage are to display warnings, identification, directions, and branding.

Why is signage important?

Signage has so many benefits in a wide variety of situations. At events, signage can help guests find where they want to go, make your brand’s booth stand out, and add to the event’s theme. It is important for businesses to have signage so customers can identify the storefront and feel confident walking through the front door. In combination with other printed goods like flyers, direct mail postcards, and posters, signage is also great for advertising products or services, celebrating special promotions, and decorating.

What is the difference between cardstock and cardboard signs?

Cardstock is a type of extra thick paper. It is flexible but still durable. Cardstock won't rip easily, even though it is made from a single layer. Cardboard on the other hand is made from multiple layers of paper and cardstock.

Cardboard often has a middle layer of wavy paper “fluting” sandwiched between two smooth layers of cardstock. This means that cardboard is much thicker and more rigid. Cardboard is extremely challenging to bend or fold and will easily stand on its own.

Cardstock signs are a perfect choice for lightweight, temporary signage on a budget. Cardboard signs are better for long-lasting signage that needs to survive frequent handling.

How can I make my sign stand on its own?

Both cardstock and cardboard signs will stand up if leaned against something (wall, easel, etc.). This is our recommended method of propping up your sign. Signs can also be attached to walls and vertical surfaces using tape, staples, nails, etc. To make signs stand on their own, you will need to create a stand or frame. Let us know if you are interested in a custom stand and we will create one for you!

What is the difference between cardboard and foamboard?

Cardboard and foamboard can both be used to make beautiful, durable signage, but they are made from very different materials. Cardboard is made of layers of paper. Cardboard often has a middle layer of wavy paper “fluting” sandwiched between two smooth layers of cardstock. Foam board is made from 2 layers of paper with a polystyrene or polyurethane filling. Foam board is sturdy but not biodegradable or easily recyclable. Cardboard is a much more environmentally friendly signage choice.

What is the best material for an outdoor banner?

Outdoor banners need to be made from a material that can hold up to wind, water, and sun. Because of this, we recommend making outdoor banners out of vinyl. Vinyl is extremely durable which means it can stand up to strong winds with a reduced chance of ripping. Vinyl is also waterproof, so your banner will hold up to rain and cleaning. Vinyl is also fade-resistant, so your banner will last for a long time, even in the sun. At Greenerprinter, our top picks for outdoor banner materials are vinyl, perforated banner mesh, and frosted vinyl.

How can banners be reinforced?

Hanging banners can be reinforced by hemming all of the banner edges. This doubles the material around all four edges and adds an extra row of stitching. This reinforced edge prevents tearing and ripping. If you choose to add holes to your banner for easy hanging, the holes can be reinforced with metal grommets. These metal rings protect the holes and prevent them from tearing further into your banner.

What are grommets on a banner?

Grommets are small metal rings used to reinforce holes in banners. Grommets fit around the edge of a hole and clamp onto the banner material. They prevent ropes or ties from stretching or tearing the banner material around the hole edges. The placement of grommets on our hanging banners is customizable.

What are banners used for?

Banners can be used for any signage purpose! Common uses include celebrating events, displaying a business name or information, advertising services or products, unveiling a new location or product, and helping people find where they are trying to go.

What is a step and repeat banner?

Step and repeat banners, also known as step and repeat walls, are banners with a repeating pattern of symbols and logos. They are often used as backdrops for photos at events. The pattern typically uses sponsor or host logos and the event logo to create a repeating design across the entire banner. This is a great marketing idea because all photos taken at this spot will have your brand’s logo all over the background.

What is a retractable banner?

A retractable banner is a vertical banner that can be automatically rolled into a secure base to protect the banner when not in use. When you’re ready to display the banner simply pull it from the base and secure it to the top of the built-in stand. Retractable banners can stand on their own and do not need to be hung. Retractable banner sizes are more limited because they must match the size of the retractable base.

What size are standard banners?

Banners can come in any size so there is no set standard size. Common sizes for hanging banners are 4 x 2 feet, 6 x 2 feet, 8 x 4 feet, and 5 x 10 feet. Common sizes for retractable banners are 3 x 7 feet, 4 x 7 feet, and 5 x 7 feet.