Tension Fabric Arch Displays

The frame builds up from tubular sections that connect into the arch shape, then the printed fabric skin is pulled over the whole structure so the graphic runs seamlessly across the curve. Because the fabric covers everything, there are no visible fixings, panel joins or hardware on show once it is up. Two people can normally handle a small arch, but a wide span such as the C Shape Tension Fabric Arch - 6m is far easier with three. Lay the frame out fully on the ground and check every joint is properly seated before you lift it.

For an event entrance where people walk through and photograph the branding, the Fabric Welcome Arch Display Stand and Fabric Square Welcome Arch Stand give a clean rectangular opening that suits large type. For a start or finish line seen head-on from a distance, a wide span like the C Shape Tension Fabric Arch - 6m keeps the opening clear for runners or vehicles. Sculptural pieces such as the 3D Fabric Triumphal Arch Backdrop and 3D Fabric Curved Wave Arch Backdrop work best where the arch is the feature itself rather than a route. Measure both the opening and the flow of people before you choose on looks.

A full open arch, such as the Fabric Full Open Square Arch Display, is clear through the middle so people pass under it without obstruction. A header version carries a printed panel across the top, giving a strong horizontal branding band at the height cameras naturally point. Headers photograph better and give sponsors a defined space; full open arches move crowds more efficiently. Several square arch models combine the two, with a header above and a clear opening below.

Yes, but an arch is a large sail and wind loading is the real limit, not the strength of the frame. On grass you can peg guy lines to ground stakes at the base of each leg; on hard standing at a showground or car park stakes are not an option, so every foot needs ballast weights instead. Never rely on the structure's own weight, and never leave an arch standing overnight unattended when the forecast is unsettled. Take it down early if conditions build rather than waiting until something has already moved.

Several arches are designed to work as an exhibition stand as well as an entrance feature. There are square and round arch versions with a built-in shelf for product display, and square arch and Portable L-Shaped models that add a shelf plus a TV mount for a screen. Check the screen weight the mount is intended to take with us before you specify a monitor, particularly for larger displays. A shelf version is worth the extra if your stand would otherwise need a separate counter shipped alongside.

Work from the template for the specific model rather than designing to the arch's nominal dimensions, because the fabric is cut oversized so it can be stretched over the frame. Keep logos and key text on the flat faces — the legs and the top band — rather than on tight curves or corners, where a 3D shape such as the Triangular Prism arch will distort them. Bear in mind the top of an arch is viewed at a steep angle, so type up there reads foreshortened and needs to be larger than feels natural. We provide free artwork assistance and a free 2D mockup so you can see the layout before committing.

Yes, and this is the main reason an arch is worth owning rather than hiring repeatedly. The frame is the durable part and the printed skin is the consumable, so a new sponsor, campaign or date only means reprinting the fabric. Keep a note of the exact model and the artwork files supplied so a reprint matches the original fit. It also lets you rotate two skins across a busy season, washing one while the other is out at events.

Frames break down into bundled tube sections and the fabric folds into a bag, so even a large arch travels in a van rather than needing a lorry. Free UK delivery applies and every structure carries a 1-year product warranty. Pack the fabric completely dry and separately from the frame, because damp fabric pressed against metal is what causes marks that will not wash out. For help specifying a size to fit a particular opening, contact support@backdropsource.co.uk or +44 1628 904 188.