When it comes to creating professional-looking banners that last, the finishing touches are crucial. Understanding the various options for banner finishing can significantly impact your banner’s durability, functionality, and overall appearance. Many businesses and organizations invest considerable resources in designing their banners but overlook the importance of proper finishing techniques.
This guide from the team at Banner Ups walks you through everything you need to know about finishing your banner to perfection.
Knowing the Different Hem Types
A well-hemmed banner lasts longer and withstands the environment more effectively. There are several hem types to consider:
Taped Hems
One of the most common and convenient options, taped hems, uses strong double-sided banner tape to create a reinforced edge. This method eliminates the need for sewing and provides a clean and durable hem that helps prevent fraying.
Sewn Hems
For banners that need extra reinforcement, particularly those used in harsh weather conditions, sewn hems are an excellent choice. After applying tape, the hem is stitched with heavy-duty thread to create an added layer of durability.
Pole Pocket Hems
When banners need to be hung from poles, rods, or stakes, pole pocket hems provide a simple solution. These hems create an opening at the top, bottom, or sides of the banner, allowing for easy insertion of poles for display.
Rope Hems
Typically used for large outdoor banners, rope hems incorporate a rope sewn inside the hem, with extra rope extending from the ends. This method is often seen in street banners, which makes it easy to secure the banner to poles or buildings.
Grommet Selection and Placement
The standard approach for grommet placement includes placing them in all four corners of a banner, with additional grommets added along the top and bottom edges as banner width increases. This ensures even distribution of tension and prevents sagging or tearing at mounting points. While silver grommets remain the default choice, matching the banner’s color scheme with gold or black options can enhance the design.
The spacing between grommets is crucial for proper banner support. While standard spacing works well for most applications, custom spacing might be needed for installation requirements or unusually large banners. Professionals usually recommend spacing grommets every 24 inches along the edges for optimal support, though this can vary based on banner size and expected wind exposure.
Mesh Banners
Instead of using wind slits or flaps, another option is to print the banner on mesh material. Mesh banners have perforations that allow wind to pass through naturally, which eliminates the need for additional cuts.
Accessory Options for Enhanced Performance
Various accessories can improve banner functionality and appearance. Rigid hems prevent sagging in indoor installations by incorporating lightweight, sleek substrate material within the hem structure. This creates a professional, flat presentation without visible reinforcement, ideal for retail environments and trade show displays.
Dowels offer another solution for maintaining banner flatness, particularly in ceiling-mounted displays. Usually inserted through pole pocket hems, removable dowels provide flexibility for installation and maintenance. The ability to remove and replace dowels also facilitates easier shipping and storage of large banners.
For specialized mounting needs, particularly in street banners, larger grommets can accommodate carabiners as they offer secure and adjustable attachment points. This versatility in mounting options allows for quick installation and removal while maintaining professional appearance and security.
Banner Hem Tape Solutions
For those looking for a simple yet effective way to finish a banner, banner hem tape is a hassle-free solution. This adhesive tape offers strong, long-lasting adhesion, ensuring that hems stay secure without the need for sewing:
Why Choose Banner Hem Tape?
- Strong Adhesion: Designed to bond securely to vinyl and other surfaces, ensuring a tight seal.
- Resistant to Weather Conditions: Holds up against heat, rain, and fluctuating temperatures.
- Easy Application: Simply place the tape over Banner Ups PowerTabs along the top and bottom edges of the banner, press down, and punch holes through the tape for hanging.
How to Apply Banner Hem Tape
- Choose a vinyl banner that needs hemming.
- Apply the adhesive hem tape (TigerTape) along the edges of the banner.
- Use a squeegee or similar tool to press the tape firmly into place.
- Insert PowerTabs if needed, punch holes through the tabs and tape then run a rope through the holes for secure hanging.
Best Practices for Banner Finishing
Whatever finishing methods you choose, certain principles ensure optimal results.
Always work on a clean, flat surface to prevent wrinkles or debris from compromising adhesion. Take time to measure and mark grommet placement accurately, ensuring even spacing and alignment. Allow adequate curing time for adhesives before installation and consider environmental factors when selecting finishing options.
For outdoor installations, combine multiple reinforcement methods to maximize durability. Pay special attention to corner reinforcement, as these areas often experience the most stress. Regular inspection and maintenance of finished banners can help identify and address any issues.
Finish Your Banners with Banner Ups Hem Tape Today!
Transform your banner finishing process with Banner Ups’ professional-grade hem tape solutions. Our innovative products offer unmatched adhesion strength and weather resistance, eliminating the need for complicated sewing processes while ensuring lasting durability. Each product is backed by extensive testing to ensure you can trust our solutions for your most important projects.
Contact us today to discover how our banner finishing solutions can streamline your production process while delivering superior results.