How to Create a Stand That Gets Noticed [Guide]

How to prepare print-ready artwork

One of the most common causes of poor-quality exhibition graphics is supplying artwork in the wrong format.

Use professional design software

For best results, exhibition artwork should be created using professional design applications such as Adobe Illustrator for vector graphics and illustrations, Adobe Photoshop for image editing, Adobe InDesign for page layouts combining text and imagery. These tools are specifically designed to produce artwork suitable for large-format printing.

Supply logos in vector format

Your logo should ideally be provided as a vector file, such as .AI or .EPS. Vector files can be scaled to any size without losing quality, making them ideal for large exhibition graphics. By contrast, logos downloaded from websites are often low-resolution image files that can appear blurry or pixelated when enlarged.

Use high-resolution images

Large-format graphics require high-quality images. Low-resolution photographs may look acceptable on a screen but can result in poor print quality when enlarged.

Acceptable image formats typically include:

• .AI

• .EPS

• .PSD

• High-resolution .JPEG files originally created at 300dpi.

Prepare files correctly

When creating artwork, design files should generally be created at 25% of actual size, and for larger items such as banners, 10% scale may be acceptable. If using InDesign, package files before sending to ensure fonts and linked assets are included, and consider outlining fonts to avoid typography issues.

Common graphic design mistakes to avoid

Using low-quality logos

One of the biggest mistakes exhibitors make is supplying logos copied from websites. While these may work online, they rarely deliver the quality needed for professional print applications.

Sending artwork inside office documents

Avoid embedding graphics inside Microsoft Word, Excel or PowerPoint. These applications often compress image quality, resulting in disappointing print results. Instead, send original design files or compressed folders containing individual artwork assets.

Ignoring colour management

If your business has established brand colours, ensure your designer uses the correct CMYK values when preparing artwork. This helps maintain colour consistency between your digital and printed materials.

Why professional design support is worth considering

A professionally designed stand can significantly enhance your event presence. Working with a graphic designer can help you develop:

• Print-ready logos

• Consistent typography

• A defined colour palette

• High-resolution imagery suitable for large-format printing

• A cohesive brand identity across both print and digital channels.

Investing in these assets doesn't just benefit a single event. They can be used across future exhibitions, marketing campaigns, websites, advertising materials, and social media content. GES offer a design service that can help - find out more about graphics here.

Maximise branding opportunities across your stand

Many exhibitors focus solely on wall graphics, but there are numerous opportunities to extend your branding throughout your stand.

Branded furniture - Logos can often be applied to hired furniture, although restrictions may apply depending on the material and finish. It's important to consult your graphics provider before planning branded furniture applications.

Custom printed display pieces - For a more impactful solution, custom printed tables, plinths or counters can create a fully branded environment. GES offer recyclable and reusable printed options, helping exhibitors balance creativity with sustainability.

Seamless wall graphics - Covering shell scheme panels with printed graphics can create a seamless finish across your space. This approach works particularly well when using large-scale imagery, panoramic visuals, or immersive brand storytelling.

Understanding exhibition wall graphics

Before designing your artwork, it's important to understand the dimensions of your exhibition space. Typical shell scheme wall panels are 1 metre wide by 2.5 metres high. However, layouts can include half-metre panels, particularly in corner positions. Knowing the exact stand configuration helps avoid design issues and ensures important messaging isn't lost.

Not all shell scheme systems are identical. Metal support structures can slightly reduce the visible printed area of a panel, meaning your artwork may not be visible edge-to-edge. Always check event specifications and exhibitor manuals before finalising designs.

What to expect during installation

Typically, stand graphics are fitted the day before the event opens. This timing helps reduce the risk of damage during stand construction and ensures your graphics remain in excellent condition for show opening.

The exact schedule can vary depending on event build timelines, but graphics installation is usually among the final steps of the exhibition setup process.

What happens to graphics after the event

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for exhibitors.

If you've invested in reusable graphics, these can be packed away and used at future events. If your graphics are designed for single-use applications, many event partners can dismantle and recycle them responsibly once the exhibition closes.

By considering reuse and recycling during the planning stage, exhibitors can reduce waste while maximising return on investment.

Your exhibitions graphics checklist

Before submitting your artwork, make sure you've:

• Supplied logos in vector format (.AI or .EPS)

• Used high-resolution imagery

• Checked your artwork dimensions

• Packaged all linked files and fonts

• Confirmed CMYK brand colours

• Reviewed shell scheme specifications

• Considered branding opportunities beyond wall graphics

• Planned for graphic reuse or recycling after the event

Exceptional exhibition graphics don't happen by chance. With the right preparation, quality assets, and thoughtful design, your stand can attract attention, reinforce your brand, and create meaningful interactions with visitors.

By following these best practices, you'll be well positioned to create graphics that not only look impressive but also help you achieve your exhibition objectives and make every square metre of your stand work harder for your business.