Many trade show exhibitors ignore the branding of their tables, like custom tablecloths for trade shows. They default to the white or blue tablecloth supplied by the venue (or nothing at all). But a colorful, branded table throw with a logo can elevate their visibility, especially at smaller shows or events. Think of a full-color branded tablecloth as another display that complements your backwall graphic and ties in seamlessly with other custom trade show exhibit products.
Best of all, trade show tablecloths are affordable for any exhibitor. In this article, we’ll explore your tablecloth options (often called table throws) from basic printed runners to full-color dye-sublimated throws, even tablecloths that convert from 6 ft. to 8 ft. sizes.
Custom Tablecloths for Trade Shows: A Branding Essential
At many smaller trade shows, the organizers will include a 6 ft. or 8 ft. banquet table in the price of the booth space. Not every exhibitor needs a table, but for those who do, a table is an essential tool to display their products and/or promote their services.
Branded tablecloths or table throws instantly create a professional, cohesive, and recognizable brand presence. In a crowded event, they act as a vital marketing tool helping you attract attendees.
Enhancing Brand Visibility and Recognition
A branded table throw is a silent salesperson for your business. It displays your logo, brand colors, and key messaging. In addition, it instantly communicates your brand identity to attendees from a distance, making it easier for them to spot your booth in a crowded exhibition hall. The use of consistent branding across all your materials—from your table throw to your banners and business cards demonstrates professionalism and assists attendees remember your company long after they leave the event.
Creating a Professional Impression
A custom, branded tablecloth adds a layer of polish and credibility, showing potential clients and partners that your business is serious and pays attention to detail. This polished appearance builds trust and encourages trade show attendees to approach your booth with confidence, signaling that you are a reputable company worth engaging with.
Functionality and Organization
Beyond branding, tablecloths serve a practical purpose. They cover the table entirely, concealing any storage, boxes, or personal items you might have underneath. This keeps your booth looking clean, organized, and inviting. Many tablecloths also come with an open-back design, which allows for easy access to stored materials while maintaining a tidy, front-facing appearance.
Types and Quality of Trade Show Tablecloths
If you’ve never shopped for tablecloths for trade shows, you might assume the colors, styles, and prices are fairly standard and the selection limited. Not so. Tablecloths are much like banner stands in that the range and prices are all over the place.
An easy way to think of table throw prices and quality is to compare it to “fast fashion” vs “contemporary/bridge” fashion. Whereas fast fashion is mass-produced and inexpensive using lower quality materials and printing, contemporary fashion offers better quality materials, design, and selection. Sometimes exhibitors need a low cost option. Other exhibitors however may want a tablecloth that will last for an entire trade show season.
Choosing the right trade show tablecloth will depend on your budget and your marketing objectives. But it’s important to remember that your choice will impact your brand’s presence and overall success at the show.
- Standard/Draped Table Throws: This common option drapes loosely over the table, providing a classic look. They are ideal if you’re not sure about the exact table size you’ll be using, as they can be adjusted to fit different dimensions. They also excel at hiding items stored underneath the table.
- Fitted Table Throws: Tailored to fit a specific table size, these covers have a clean, boxy, and structured look. They offer a professional and polished appearance.
- Stretch-Fit Table Throws: Made from stretchy materials like polyester and spandex, these covers hug the table and legs, creating a sleek, modern, and wrinkle-free look. They are great for high-traffic areas as they won’t be easily pulled or snagged, and they are perfect for a minimalist aesthetic.
- Table Runners: A more budget-friendly and versatile option, a table runner is a long, narrow piece of fabric that lays across the center of a bare or solid-colored tablecloth. They are perfect for highlighting your logo or a specific product without covering the entire table.
- Convertible Table Throws: These tablecloths convert from a 6 ft. to 8 ft. size using hook-and-loop Velcro tabs sewn into both ends. They’re ideal if the table sizes vary from show to show. And like the previous options, they can be printed using dye-sublimation for a rich vibrant print.
The fabric affects the look, feel, and longevity of your tablecloth. So choosing the right material is important.
- Polyester: This is the most popular choice for trade show throws. It is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and machine-washable, making it ideal for repeated use and easy transport.
- Spandex/Stretch Fabric: Used for stretch-fit covers, this material is excellent for a smooth, wrinkle-free appearance.
- Flame-Retardant Fabric: Many trade show venues require display materials to be flame-retardant. It is a good idea to confirm with the event organizers and choose a throw with this certification to ensure compliance and safety.
Printed Tablecloths for Trade Shows vs Plain Throws: Why Design Matters
While it’s possible to order a plain tablecloth in a specific color, why would you? Unless the table throws are meant to be a color backdrop for an event. Instead, create a design that reflects your branding and strategy for the show. Consider the following when designing a tablecloth.
1. Keep It Simple and Focused
Trade shows are visually cluttered environments. To stand out, your design should be clean and easy to understand at a glance.
- Prioritize Your Logo: Make your logo the focal point. It should be large enough to be easily legible from at least 10 feet away. The standard and most effective placement is centered on the front panel of the throw.
- Limit Text: Avoid putting too much text on the table throw. Stick to your company name, a concise tagline, and perhaps your website or a QR code. Detailed information should be reserved for brochures or other handouts.
- Avoid Visual Clutter: Don’t crowd the design with too many images, graphics, or busy patterns. A simple, professional design is more memorable and less overwhelming.
2. Leverage Your Brand’s Visual Identity
Your table throw should be a seamless extension of your brand.
- Use Brand Colors: Incorporate your official brand colors to create a consistent and recognizable look. High-contrast colors are best for visibility, ensuring your logo pops against the background.
- Maintain Font Consistency: Use the same fonts on your table throw that you use on your website, banners, and other marketing materials. This reinforces your brand’s visual identity.
- Provide High-res Files: To ensure a crisp, professional print, always provide your vendor with high-resolution vector artwork files (such as .AI, .EPS, or editable .PDF). Vector files can be scaled to any size without losing quality, which is crucial for large-format printing.
3. Consider the Printing Method
The printing method you choose will impact the final look and feel of your table throw.
- Dye Sublimation: This is the preferred method for high-quality, full-color designs. The process infuses the ink directly into the fabric, creating a vibrant, durable, and fade-resistant graphic that won’t crack or peel. It allows for complex, all-over prints.
- Screen Printing: A more cost-effective option, particularly for simple designs with one or two solid colors. The ink sits on top of the fabric.
By following these design principles, you can create a branded table throw that not only looks professional but also serves as a powerful and effective marketing tool.
5 Real-World Examples of Tablecloths for Trade Shows
Contour Tablecloths – 6 ft. Fitted tension-fabric table throw for a 6 ft. banquet table. Seamless construction. Front logo only.
Contour Tablecloths – 8 ft. Fitted 8 ft. version with a range of colors and standard dye-sublimated front logo. Fire-resistant.
V-Runner Small and Large. Single-sided runner – 24” and 30” – for unbranded table throws. 100% recycled fabric. Machine washable.
V-Runner Full Dye-Sub – 6 ft. Full dye-sublimated printing on one side. Made of rCELTIC 100% recycled fabric. Indoor use.
V-Runner Full Dye-Sub – 8 ft. Larger 8 ft. version. Seamless construction. Fire retardant and machine washable.
Other Ways to Make Your Trade Show Table Setup Pop
You have your branded tabletop. Now it’s time to use it to create an effective presentation to attendees. Think of your trade show table setup as both a flat and vertical surface. Some exhibitors go for a minimalist approach with printed literature, giveaways, and perhaps demo products. Others use tiered displays and risers to expand the surface area not only for the previously mentioned items but for tabletop signs, tablet stands, lighting elements, and bins.
In some cases, organized clutter can be effective. For example, a company that sells stuffed animals in various sizes. The more the merrier as the strategic chaos attracts attention, especially children.
Lightweight, affordable, and creative LED lights are game changers for both large and smaller exhibitors. LED rope lights draped on or in front of a table attract attention. These can be programmed for specific colors and sequences. Many are battery operated, eliminating the need for an electrical outlet. There are now LED spotlights, accent lights, and even fun, playful lights which have no other purpose except to be eye-catching.
Finally, remember the purpose of your table is to engage attendees and facilitate conversations. Leave space to demonstrate your product or to write a note. Having a plan means knowing what should be on the table, what can be hidden under the table, and how to utilize the space as both a visual display and a practical sales tool.
Custom Tablecloths That Fit Your Exhibit Strategy
Most table throws, even full color 8 ft. throws, cost less than $500. Frankly, that’s a bargain price as a marketing tool at any trade show, event, or conference. Don’t be afraid to be bold with your design. Or to have a custom table throw printed for a specific audience, like the RV Show vs. the Outdoor Adventure Show or the Christmas Gift Show vs. the Financial Planners meeting.
For more details about custom tablecloths, see the Banner Stand and Table Throw gallery in Exhibit Design Search. For ideas about Custom Trade Show Exhibits, see the photo gallery on Classic’s website.
For over 30 years, Classic Exhibits has been designing and building creative custom solutions for our Distributor Partners and their clients. As North America’s largest private-label exhibit manufacturer, we have the unmatched capability, capacity, and creativity to create 3D projects ranging from 10 x 10 inline displays to 60 x 80 double-deck islands. Find success on the trade show floor with an exhibit that reflects your marketing message. For more information, see www.classicexhibits.com and explore Exhibit Design Search or request a meeting with a Classic Distributor Partner.
Tags: Classic Exhibits, table throws, tablecloths, Trade Shows