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FAQ — Table Top Displays

October 5th, 2010 Mel White COMMENTS

Sacagawea VK-1292

When it comes to trade show displays, Table Tops are all too often the Rodney Dangerfield of exhibits — they just don’t get much respect. That’s unfortunate since table tops are the exhibit and event lifeblood of many for profit and non-profit organizations.

At Classic Exhibits, we offer more table top designs than anyone. Choose the two-sided Intro Fabric Table Top or the contemporary Aero Tension Fabric Table Top. Or, select the always popular Quadro Pop Up or the economical Classic Presentation Briefcase Display.

To select the perfect table top display for your needs, start with these helpful FAQs:

1. I see a variety of table top designs with prices ranging from several hundred dollars to several thousand. What are the differences?

  • Quadro EO and S Pop Ups: Traditional pop up table tops with an expanding metal frame and channel bars. Excellent for any company showing a large graphic(s) on a lightweight, easy-to-assemble display.
  • Classic Presentation: Lightweight 3-panel briefcase table tops with a durable plastic frame, carrying handle, and Velcro compatible fabric. The table top of choice for recruiters, colleges, non-profits, and anyone needing a table top that’s ready to go in 5 seconds or less.
  • Sacagawea: Aluminum extrusion and tension fabric table tops with accessories such as standoff graphics, headers, and shelves. Perfect for just about any situation.
  • Aero Freestanding: Powder-coated aluminum push-button tubes in contemporary shapes with tension fabric and first surface graphics. Hi-tech and pharmaceutical companies love these upscale shapes.
  • Perfect 10: Curved aluminum extrusion table tops with tension fabric. Attached knob assembly. Large, easy-to-assemble, and dramatic.
  • FT (Intro): Two-sided folding fabric panel table tops in varying widths and heights. These are perfect for anyone with an extensive trade show schedule where you expect the table top will take a beating.

2. Are graphics included with the table top displays?

It depends on the system. Aero Table Tops include the larger tension fabric graphic (backwall) but not the direct print graphic. The Quadro Pop Up table tops have a two options — with and without graphics. Sacagawea and Perfect 10 include all graphics. However, graphics are not included on the Intro and and Classic Presentation systems.

3. Will these table top displays fit on a 6 ft and 8 ft table?

With the exception of a few Intro Table Top designs, which are built exclusively for 8 ft. tables, all the tabletops will fit both 6 ft and 8 ft tables.

4. What are my options for Table Throw Covers?

See the Table Throw Cover Gallery to see all your options.

Next, Trade Show Table Throw Gallery FAQ

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FAQ — Fabric Pop Up Displays

September 29th, 2010 Mel White 1 COMMENT
Xpressions 8' Kit H

Xpressions 8' Kit H

Is there any trade show display more familiar that Xpressions and Burst? The Fabric Pop-up has become popular with exhibitors because it’s portable, attractive, assembles fast, which combines for a great trade show experience. As familiar as you are with these products, you probably still have questions. We hope the following FAQs answer many of them.

1. Are self-locking pop ups a good option for tension fabric pop ups? I have seen them advertised on other websites.

Self-locking pop-ups are perfect for Velcro compatible fabrics and murals, but are not ideal for tension fabric graphics We use a frame with manual locks because it creates a more rigid structure which evenly pulls out any wrinkles or folds in the fabric graphic. The result is a taut flat graphic that mimics a hard panel graphic.

Self-locking frames are fantastic when you have a rollable mural graphic or fabric panel with stiffener hardware. But when it comes to fabric pop-ups, steer clear of a self-locking pop up.

2. Can I ship the Xpressions Express in its hard rolling case?

Yes and No. No, the Express kit is a rolling hard case that makes it convenient to transport and can be checked as airline luggage but it is not designed as a shipper. However, you can ship the kit if you retain the original cardboard counter.

3. After a few shows, my Xpressions skins are starting to get dirty from handling and the dirty show floor. What are my options?

Rest easy. Xpressions skins are dye sublimated graphics and can be cleaned! Spot clean any specific areas or just throw them into the washing machine on cold with mild detergent. The skins will look like new again. Dry on very low heat or hang dry on the frame.

4. Four questions regarding the Xpressions Express.

* Is Xpressions Express case clear?

Answer: No, the case is solid black. The clear case that appears on some literature was for demonstration purposes only.

* Is there room in the Xpressions Express case for literature?

Answer: There is some extra room in the case but it’s very limited. The display was designed to be light weight so that the display could be checked as luggage on an airplane and not exceed the 50 lb limit. Adding literature may cause the unit to exceed that limit.

* What is the advantage of having the back wall as two 1×3 units instead of a single 3×3?

Answer: There are several advantages. First, eliminating the center hardware reduces the price of the unit and cuts down on the weight. Second, the design allows more versatility. The unit can be used as a full back wall or as two merchandizing units. The 1×3 unit can be placed on its side and used as a table top unit on an 8’ table.

* Can existing Xpressions XSnap frames be retro-fitted with the special shelf-hub?

Answer: Yes. Simply contact your account representative and explain your request. You may be able to do this yourself or it may require sending your frame out for refitting. Keep in mind that only the Xpressions Express unique shelves work with the clip to connect two 1x3s. These shelves are available for individual sale. Two shelves are required to connect 1×3 snaps.

5. I get asked all the time about wrinkles in tension fabric pop-ups and how to eliminate them.

Fabric will wrinkle and fold lines may appear if a fabric graphic has been stored or folded for a long time, but the wrinkles are not permanent. Whenever possible, always store your displays set-up. Many people have their display set-up in the company waiting or conference room!

Use a good quality fabric on a structure (like Vburst) that when set-up pulls the wrinkles out of the fabric. Carry a small travel steamer in your display case. These are inexpensive and simple to use. The steamers can lift out any remaining wrinkles after your set-up.

6. What is the warranty on fabric pop ups?

All fabric pop ups have a lifetime warranty on all hardware products. The policy applies to original purchaser. No product registration is required. We will replace or repair all hardware supplied to our customers purchased after 7/7/09. However, we reserve the right to inspect hardware and exclude warranty claims that have resulted from vandalism, theft, negligence, fire, natural disasters, modifications, or losses in shipment that may be covered by your insurance and/or freight carrier. The lifetime hardware warranty does not apply to graphics or to electrical components.

All shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.

Next, Table Top Displays FAQ

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Posted in Classic Exhibit Systems, Mel White | 1 Comment »

FAQ — Flooring (Carpet and Padding)

September 20th, 2010 Mel White COMMENTS
Carpet and Padding

Carpet and Padding

Attractive flooring is essential to any successful trade show display. The first choice is often carpeting. The reasons are obvious. It’s available in many colors, it’s easy to transport and maintain, and paired with the right padding, it’s comfortable. To get you started in the right direction, here are some basic FAQ’s.

1. How do I calculate the amount of carpet I need?

Just follow these easy steps.

1.    Calculate your square footage – this is done by multiplying the length of the area by the width of the area: 10 x 20 booth space will be 200 sq ft.
2.    You will then need to calculate the carpet needed to cover the square footage.

  • If your carpet is 12’ wide, and your area is 10 x 20, you will have to purchase a 12 x 20 to cover the area = 240 sq ft.
  • If your carpet is 10’ wide, you will then order 200 sq ft.

3.    It is always safe to order an extra foot of carpet to insure you are totally covered in your area.

2. Is it better to rent or purchase exhibit/event carpet?

It depends on your short-term or long-term needs. It is more cost-effective to rent carpet if your schedule of exhibits is minimal. However, if you have several planned activities over a scope of time, you could experience significant cost-savings by purchasing.

3. How can I get versatile use of my carpet?

While carpeting is one of the most budget-friendly flooring options, inventive solutions such as dying carpet to custom PMS colors, binding, or incorporating custom inlays or logos will prove to be cost-effective while transforming the floor for other non-trade show projects.

4. How can I extend the longevity of my carpet use?

Taking care of your carpet during storage and transportation will extend the longevity of the carpet. Here are a few tips:

  • Store and ship in carpet bags
  • Store carpet on cores. This is very important – NEVER fold your carpet during storage or transportation
  • Store in a dry storage
  • Clean carpet before storing
  • Remove stains as soon as they happen
  • Repair all holes after each event

Next, FAQ — Visionary Designs Hybrid Exhibits.

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Posted in Classic Exhibit Systems, Exhibit Design Search, Mel White | No Comments »

FAQ — Eco-Smart Displays

September 10th, 2010 Mel White COMMENTS
Green Trade Show Display

FERO -- Eco-Smart Display

From small portable displays to large island exhibits, Eco-Smart Sustainable Displays are now front and center in most exhibit discussions.  All of our Eco-Smart products are designed and constructed with the most environmentally friendly materials available. Review our Eco-Smart FAQ’s to learn more.

1. Do Eco-Smart Displays cost more?

It depends on what you are comparing them to, but we have tried to make our Green displays cost the same or less than the industry standard. It is our philosophy that it should not cost more to own a Green Display.

2. What if I do not see a design I love?

No Problem. We have a complimentary design service. We can create a unique, custom display that is specific to your needs. Simply contact us, and we’ll get started right away.

3. Are these Eco-Smart Displays reconfigurable to different sizes?

Yes. Our displays are designed to be reconfigurable to different sizes with minimal additional components. If you would like to see renderings of how a specific display can be reconfigured into another size, please contact us!

4. What makes an Eco-Smart Display “green”?

We use the most eco-friendly materials available on the market, without sacrificing design or price. For example, recycled aluminum extrusions, graphics made from recycled soda bottles, LED energy efficient lights, rapidly renewable bamboo, low VOC adhesives, and MUCH more.

Please contact us for full details about our sustainable materials.

5. Are there Eco-Smart accessories such as lights, cases, pedestals, and workstations?

Yes, these are located in the Eco-Smart Accessories Gallery.

Next, Exhibit Design Search Tips FAQ.

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FAQ — Banner Stands

September 9th, 2010 Mel White COMMENTS

Pronto Banner Stand

Pronto Banner Stand

Banner stands are everywhere:  retail stores, trade shows, conventions, churches, lobbies, and sporting events. I’m starting to think some folks even have them in their homes (“Bathroom — Third Door on the Left” or “Please Remove Your Shoes in the Family Room”).  Still a little confused about your banner stand options? Me too! Here’s a quick FAQ about banner stands from Exhibit Design Search.

1. I searched “banner stands” on the Internet and found some really inexpensive ones and some really expensive ones. I also noticed many different features and options. How do I choose?

The old adages are true – “You get what you pay for” and “If it’s too good to be true, well, then it probably is.”

If you plan to use a stand once and throw it away, then consider a “hot deal.” But if you need something more permanent, then your decision should be based on graphic quality, style, activity, travel considerations, environmental impact, graphic changes, and durability. If you are looking for a high-quality product with a lifetime warranty and graphic quality, then select the banner stands in our gallery.

The stand you choose will represent your brand. It should look good with straight and vibrant graphics and an attractive, stable, and undamaged base.

2. Why are fabric graphics, instead of vinyl graphics, suggested for most mid-grade and premium banner stands?

Why spend good money on a banner stand and then put a low-end graphic on it? Vinyl graphics are fine for some uses, especially long-term outdoor situations (such as an outdoor pole-mounted application), but they are usually not the highest quality. Even if the printing is top-notch, a vinyl banner has a tendency to curl. In contrast, a fabric banner will hold its shape even under tension.

Fabric banners also look better with warm colors, textures, and no glare. Several choices, including recycled fabric, make it the most versatile option anddepending on the banner stand, photo graphic using the Lambda process may be the best option. Lambda offers photographic continuous tones.

3. Can I ship a Little Giant case?

Yes and no. No, the case cannot be shipped strictly speaking; however, if you retain the original cardboard carton, it can be used to ship the case. The Little Giant is a great rolling portable case that can be checked for air travel but it is not a standard shipping case.

4. Which one of the banner stands can I use on a table?

Depending on height limits, any banner stand could be placed on a table. For most trade shows and recruiting events full height banners are inappropriate.

The Pronto retractable banner stand includes a three-segmented bungee attached mast. When the banner is attached to the mast at one-segment or two-segment height, this stand makes a perfect companion to your table throw. Combine two or three units for full backwall. The available graphic templates help your designer layout the graphic to the proper heights.

5. What kind of light can I use on a banner stand?

All our banner stands accept a light. These can be found in the product accessories section or give us a call.

6. My last banner stand graphic had a lot of glare. Is this normal?

(See the question #2 regarding fabric banners)

Not if you use fabric banners. Fabric banners are much better at eliminating glare, showing warm colors, and revealing textures especially in well lit environments.

7. What is the warranty on banner stands?

All banner stands have a lifetime warranty on all hardware products. The policy applies to original purchaser. No product registration is required. We will replace or repair all hardware supplied to our customers purchased after 7/7/09. However, we reserve the right to inspect hardware and exclude warranty claims that have resulted from vandalism, theft, negligence, fire, natural disasters, modifications, or losses in shipment that may be covered by your insurance and/or freight carrier. The lifetime hardware warranty does not apply to graphics or to electrical components.

All shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.

Next FAQ posting, Eco-Smart Displays.

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Posted in Classic Exhibit Systems, Mel White | No Comments »

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