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Banner Making: From Envision to Completion

Outdoor Banners

In the previous sections a few of the techniques of vinyl banner finishing, such as grommeting, were introduced. Here we provide a guide to how signmakers prepare a new banner for exposure to wind, rain, sunlight, and other elements.

Permanent outdoor banners

When a banner is designed to be used outdoors continuously, the banner is first of all sturdy enough to withstand a range of seasonal elements such as wind, water, heat. When constructing an outdoor banner for permanent placement, we usually start by recommending a heavier weight banner material (see banner materials choices) to match the conditions of the outside environment. A sturdy banner can be printed on 10-13 oz. material, but high winds can quickly change is requirement. For general long-term use, it is best to have your banner laminated to protect the color and look of your banner from such elements as sunlight, and moisture. For especially high stress conditions such as heavy wind, or a banner that is stretched between posts or trees such additions as reinforced corners, wind slits, nylon webbing or rope stitched directly into the hem can make a big difference.

Short term outdoor banner

Banners that are used short-term will not likely see quite the same range of temperature change or prolonged exposure. This may include a banner that is used seasonally, so it can be designed with a limited function in mind. For temporary and short-term banners we usually suggest a standard weight banner (see banner materials choices) unless outdoor conditions would require a heavier weight despite standard hemming and grommets on a majority of banners.

Other considerations

Lamination protects the graphics of the banner from fading and scratches and provides a long lasting finish. It is a necessity for preventing wear and tear on a permanent installation. Lamination protects an digitally printed banner from fading and should always be considered. Placement of grommets and wind slits should be planned in advance based on prevailing weather conditions at the installation site. Even a light steady breeze can put stress on grommets or pockets on a large banner if the banner is not designed with installation readily in mind.