5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Custom Banners

Custom banners are one of the most effective marketing tools for businesses, events, and organizations. They are versatile, cost-effective, and capable of creating a strong visual impact that attracts attention and conveys your message clearly. However, many companies make avoidable mistakes during the ordering process that reduce the banner’s effectiveness, quality, or return on investment. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the five most common mistakes to avoid when ordering custom banners and how to ensure your banner makes the maximum impact.

Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Material

One of the most critical aspects of ordering a custom banner is selecting the right material. Many customers overlook this step and choose a generic option, which can result in durability issues or poor performance in specific environments.

Common issues with the wrong material:

• Indoor vs. outdoor use: Materials designed for indoor use (like lightweight fabric) may not withstand rain, wind, or UV rays outdoors.
• Short-term vs. long-term use: A vinyl banner might be sufficient for a one-day trade show, but for long-term outdoor displays, mesh banners (which allow wind to pass through) or heavy-duty vinyl may be more appropriate.
• Eco-friendliness: Some businesses are moving toward sustainable materials. Choosing PVC-free or recyclable options might align better with your brand values.

Solution: Always discuss the intended use of your banner with your supplier. StrongDisplay, for instance, offers multiple material options including heavy-duty vinyl, polyester fabric, and mesh, tailored for both indoor and outdoor applications. You can learn more in our event tents and canopies section for durable outdoor display solutions.

Mistake #2: Poor Design and Low-Resolution Graphics

Your banner’s design is what captures attention and communicates your message. Unfortunately, many companies make the mistake of submitting poor-quality graphics or cluttered designs that fail to engage viewers.

Problems caused by poor design:

• Pixelation: Low-resolution images will appear blurry or grainy when enlarged.
• Overcrowding: Too much text or too many graphics can overwhelm viewers.
• Lack of brand consistency: Using inconsistent colors, fonts, or logos reduces brand recognition.

Solution: Invest in professional design. Keep the design clean, simple, and consistent with your brand identity. Use high-resolution images (at least 300 DPI for print) and readable fonts. At StrongDisplay, our design team works closely with clients to ensure every banner has a professional and impactful layout. Pair your banners with custom table covers for a cohesive and branded event setup.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Size and Placement

A common oversight when ordering custom banners is failing to consider the right size and placement. A banner that is too small may go unnoticed, while an oversized banner could look awkward or fail to fit in the intended space.

Typical mistakes with size and placement:

• Too small for the venue: A banner meant for a large trade show hall may be ineffective if it’s not large enough to be seen from a distance.
• Not suitable for the structure: For example, ordering a rigid banner for a curved surface.
• Blocking visibility: Poor placement might block exits, signage, or natural sightlines.

Solution: Always measure your display area before placing an order. Consider the distance from which viewers will see the banner. For instance, outdoor roadside banners should be large with bold text, while indoor table banners can be smaller with more detail. For maximum visibility at events, combine your banners with custom feather flags that draw attention from afar.

Mistake #4: Forgetting About Finishing Options

The finishing of a banner is often overlooked, but it is critical to its longevity, ease of installation, and professional appearance.

Issues from ignoring finishing options:

• No grommets or pole pockets: Without proper finishing, hanging a banner can be difficult and unprofessional.
• Weak seams: Banners without reinforced edges may tear in windy conditions.
• Incorrect orientation: Not specifying horizontal or vertical hanging options can limit how the banner can be used.

Solution: Always ask your supplier about finishing options such as grommets, reinforced hems, pole pockets, or Velcro attachments. At StrongDisplay, we provide customizable finishing solutions to make banners easier to install and longer-lasting. If you’re looking for a complete setup, explore our trade show booth displays which integrate banners with professional finishing and support.

Mistake #5: Not Planning Ahead

Time management is crucial when ordering custom banners. Many businesses wait until the last minute, which can result in rushed designs, higher shipping costs, or even missing the event deadline.

Problems caused by poor planning:

• Rushed designs: Leads to mistakes, typos, or low-quality graphics.
• Limited supplier options: You may have to settle for a subpar product if you don’t have enough time to research and compare.
• Expensive shipping: Overnight or express shipping dramatically increases costs.

Solution: Plan your banner order at least 2–3 weeks before your event. This gives you time to finalize the design, review proofs, and ensure timely delivery. StrongDisplay offers expedited options, but we always recommend ordering early for the best results. For large-scale projects, explore our event tents that pair perfectly with banners to create a strong, branded event presence.

Bonus Tips for Ordering Custom Banners

Beyond avoiding these common mistakes, here are some additional best practices to ensure your custom banners deliver the best results:

1. Use bold, simple messaging: Viewers often only have a few seconds to absorb your message.
2. Incorporate your brand colors: Consistency builds recognition and trust.
3. Request a digital proof: Always review the final design before printing.
4. Think about reusability: Design banners that can be used at multiple events to maximize ROI.
5. Consult professionals: Work with experienced display providers like StrongDisplay who understand your industry needs.

Conclusion

Custom banners are powerful marketing tools when designed and executed properly. By avoiding these five common mistakes—choosing the wrong material, poor design, ignoring size and placement, overlooking finishing options, and failing to plan ahead—you can ensure that your investment pays off with high visibility, durability, and brand impact.

At StrongDisplay, we specialize in helping businesses create banners that stand out and perform well in any environment. With professional design support, a wide range of materials, and customizable finishing options, we make the process smooth and reliable. Whether you need a banner for a trade show, outdoor festival, or corporate event, StrongDisplay is your trusted partner for professional event display solutions.