How to Design Effective Shell Scheme Graphics for Exhibitions
Learn how to design impactful shell scheme graphics for exhibitions. Get expert tips on exhibition printing, materials, and budget-friendly solutions.

Exhibitions are one of the most effective ways for businesses to showcase their brand, attract potential clients, and generate leads. However, with numerous competitors in the same space, standing out can be a challenge. A well-designed exhibition stand plays a crucial role in grabbing attention and leaving a lasting impression. Shell scheme graphics are essential for making your stand visually appealing, professional, and engaging, helping you maximise foot traffic and brand exposure. From design principles to material selection, this guide covers everything you need to know about creating high-quality exhibition printing for your stand.
Why Shell Scheme Graphics Matter in Exhibitions
A well-designed exhibition stand is more than just a backdrop; it’s a powerful marketing tool. Your graphics should instantly communicate your brand identity, key message, and value proposition. Here’s why they matter:
- Increased Foot Traffic: A visually striking stand can attract up to 60% more visitors compared to a plain one.
- Brand Recognition: Consistent branding and colours help attendees remember your business long after the event.
- Higher Engagement: Studies show that attendees spend twice as long at well-designed stands, leading to better networking and lead generation.
Key Design Principles for Effective Graphics
1. Clarity and Readability
Your message should be clear at first glance. Overloading text can confuse visitors, so keep wording concise and engaging. Consider the following tips:
- Use large, bold fonts readable from at least 3 metres away.
- Stick to 5–7 words per headline for maximum impact.
- Ensure a strong contrast between text and background to improve visibility.
2. High-Quality Visuals
Blurry or pixelated images can make your brand appear unprofessional. Ensure all images are:
- 300dpi resolution for sharp, high-quality printing.
- Properly formatted to avoid stretching or distortion.
- Aligned with your brand’s visual identity (logos, fonts, and colours).
3. Colour Psychology in Exhibition Stands
Colours influence perceptions and emotions. Choose them wisely to evoke the right response from visitors.
Colour |
Meaning |
Best Used For |
Blue |
Trust, professionalism |
Corporate, finance, and tech brands |
Red |
Energy, urgency |
Sales-driven stands, promotions |
Yellow |
Optimism, creativity |
Start-ups, lifestyle brands |
By understanding colour psychology, you can enhance brand messaging and engagement.
Choosing the Right Material for Graphics
Selecting the right exhibition printing material is essential for balancing durability, cost, and visual appeal. Below is a comparison of common materials used for shell scheme graphics:
Material |
Durability |
Cost Estimate (per sqm) |
Best For |
Foamex |
High |
£25 - £50 |
Reusable, professional displays |
Correx |
Medium |
£10 - £20 |
Budget-friendly, short-term use |
Dibond |
Very High |
£50 - £100 |
Premium, long-term displays |
Disclaimer: The cost estimates provided are approximate and may vary based on supplier pricing, order quantity, and design complexity. It is recommended to request a customised quote for accurate pricing.
Getting the Right Fit: Measuring Accurately
Poorly fitted graphics can make a stand look unprofessional. Always check your exhibitor manual for exact dimensions. Below are some common shell scheme sizes:
Panel Type |
Width (mm) |
Height (mm) |
Full Panel |
950 |
2340 |
Half Panel |
475 |
2340 |
Seamless Panels |
Custom-fit |
Custom-fit |
By accurately measuring your panels before printing, you avoid gaps, misalignment, and wasted materials.
Budget Considerations for Shell Scheme Graphics
When planning for exhibition printing, balancing cost and quality is key. Consider these budget-saving tips:
- Reuse Panels: If you are attending multiple exhibitions, invest in durable and reusable Foamex panels to maximise cost efficiency and sustainability.
- Modular Designs: Choose adaptable panels that can be rearranged or reconfigured to suit different event layouts, providing versatility and long-term usability.
- Bulk Printing: Ordering your graphics in bulk helps reduce per-unit costs while ensuring consistency in design and print quality across all events.
Cost vs. Material Longevity
When selecting exhibition printing materials, balancing cost and durability is crucial. Higher-cost materials like Dibond offer long-term use, while budget-friendly options like Correx are ideal for short-term events. Understanding this balance helps in making cost-effective decisions. The graph below illustrates how different materials compare in terms of cost and longevity.
Disclaimer: Prices vary depending on design complexity and supplier. Always request a custom quote for accuracy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cluttered Design – Having too many elements on a webpage can overwhelm visitors and make it difficult for them to find important information. A clean and simple layout helps keep the focus on key messages and improves user experience.
- Inconsistent Branding – Using different colours, fonts, or styles throughout the website can create confusion and make the brand appear unprofessional. Maintaining consistency in design elements ensures a cohesive and trustworthy brand identity.
- Lack of Hierarchy – If all content looks the same, visitors may struggle to identify the most important information. Using size, colour, contrast, and strategic placement helps guide attention and improve readability.
Tips for Maximising ROI on Your Shell Scheme Graphics
- Repurpose Graphics – Reuse your panels across multiple events to maximise value and reduce long-term printing costs.
- Invest in Storage: Store your graphics in a dry, flat space to prevent creases, fading, or damage, ensuring long-term durability and professional appearance.
- Combine Digital & Print: Use QR codes to seamlessly direct attendees to online brochures, videos, or interactive content, enhancing engagement and providing additional brand information.
- Hire a Designer: If DIY design isn’t your strength, investing in a professional ensures a visually striking, high-quality display that effectively represents your brand.
Conclusion
Investing in high-quality shell scheme graphics is essential for creating a lasting impression at exhibitions. A well-designed stand not only enhances brand recognition but also significantly improves visitor engagement and lead generation. With the right combination of striking visuals, durable materials, and strategic messaging, your exhibition stand can effectively capture attention.
By carefully selecting materials that balance cost and longevity, maintaining a professional design, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can maximise the return on your investment. For businesses seeking premium exhibition printing solutions, Foamex Printing Company provides high-quality, custom-tailored graphics to help your brand stand out in any exhibition space.
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