Step and repeat, or backdrop banners, use the same repeating design to create a solid background. You have likely seen them at school dances and red-carpet photo ops. But have you ever wondered how you even begin to design them?
Well, you're in luck. Today you will learn how to design the perfect step and repeat banner for your event, utilizing the best practices in custom backdrop printing.
Let's get started.
Chapter One: Size and Material Options
Our size range is versatile, one size does not fit all. You can order a banner as small as 1' x 1' or as large as 8' x 50' and everything in between. This allows you to plan for larger trade show displays and photo ops, or to choose something smaller and more portable.
Your banner material options are as follows:
- 13-oz. matte vinyl
- 13-oz. gloss vinyl
- 18-oz. extra heavy duty matte vinyl
- Fabric
- Mesh
Each material has its own benefits. Matte vinyl is a flatter, more subdued material that produces rich colors. Glossy vinyl is shiny and produces vibrant colors and graphics. Either option is durable in the elements. Mesh and fabric materials have an appealing and softer aesthetic.
Backdrop, Vinyl, and Step and Repeat Banner Comparison
| Feature |
Backdrop Banners |
Vinyl Banners |
Step and Repeat Banners |
| Best For |
Step and repeat photo backdrops, red carpet events |
General purpose signage, storefronts, events |
Repeating logo backdrops for press and media events |
| Common Sizes |
1' x 1' up to 8' x 50', popular at 8' x 8' and 8' x 20' |
1' x 1' up to 8' x 50', with custom sizes available |
1' x 1' up to 8' x 50', sized to fit your backdrop stand |
| Material Options |
13 oz. matte, 13 oz. gloss, 18 oz. heavy duty, mesh, fabric |
13 oz. matte, 13 oz. gloss, 18 oz. heavy duty, mesh, fabric, adhesive |
13 oz. matte, 13 oz. gloss, 18 oz. heavy duty, mesh, fabric |
| Finishing |
Grommets, pole pockets |
Hems, grommets, pole pockets, reinforced edges |
Grommets, pole pockets |
| Price |
As Low As $5.95 |
As Low As $5.95 |
As Low As $5.95 |
Chapter Two: Design Elements
Color
Color is the makeup for your branding. When choosing colors, think about your messaging goals. Evening look or casual? Hip or professional?
Graphic designers will likely tell you that bold, high-contrast color schemes will not work well for a more serious or somber occasion. So, given that, make sure your color choices enhance your branding.
Logos
Now that you have selected your size, material and colors, you can begin to think about designs. The banner and display industry preaches that a logo should be between 9 and 11 inches. So keep that in mind if you are going to include it on your banner.
Implement your colors into the logo design and make sure it is a shape that can easily be repeated without being too busy.
Graphics
Graphic designers will also tell you that black text on a white background is popular, and it is popular because it is visually pleasing. It is easy on the eyes. So, if you are going to use a graphic and not an intricate logo, then go with something subtle.
Chapter Three: Finishing Options and Installation
These backdrop banners are available with pole pockets, or with hems and grommets. It is entirely up to you how you intend to use the banner. When a banner needs to be attached to anything, such as a fence, hems and grommets are ideal. When the banner is utilized to cover the background, pole pockets work fantastically.