Frequent Asked Printing Questions
Welcome to The Tradeshow Gallery Printing Co.’s comprehensive FAQ section! We’ve compiled the most commonly asked questions about our large format printing services, trade show displays, and custom signage solutions to help you make informed decisions for your business needs.
General Services & Company Information
What services does The Tradeshow Gallery Printing Co. offer?
We are a full-service large format printing company specializing in trade show displays, vinyl banners, custom signage, promotional flags, table covers, retractable banner stands, and much more. Our services include design consultation, high-quality printing, and professional finishing to ensure your brand makes a lasting impression. view our web design portfolio
Where are you located and what areas do you serve?
We’re based in Orange County, California, and proudly serve businesses throughout Southern California including Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Mission Viejo, and surrounding areas. We also ship nationwide and work with third-party shipping services for your convenience. We are online/remote only.
What makes The Tradeshow Gallery different from other print shops in Orange County?
We specialize exclusively in large format printing and trade show displays, which means we have the expertise and equipment to deliver exceptional results. We offer competitive pricing, fast turnaround times, personalized service, and a complimentary one-hour graphic design consultation with your first order.
File Requirements & Design Specifications
What file types do you accept for large format printing?
We prefer vector files including AI, PDF, EPS, and SVG formats for the best print quality. We also accept raster files like JPG, PNG, PSD, and TIFF, though these may have limitations for large format printing.
What resolution should my files be for optimal print quality?
All images should be set to 150-300 DPI at full size. To check if your image will print clearly, zoom to 100% in your design software – this represents how it will look from approximately 3 feet away.
Do you provide design services?
Yes! We offer professional graphic design services and include a complimentary one-hour design consultation with your first order (a $55 value). Our experienced designers can help create eye-catching graphics that effectively communicate your brand message. View our design portfolio
What color mode should my files be in?
All files must be submitted in CMYK color mode. RGB files will be converted to CMYK, which may result in color shifts. For specific color matching, please specify Pantone colors from the Pantone + Solid Coated (C) book.
Product-Specific Questions
What types of vinyl banners do you offer?
We offer three main vinyl banner options:
- 13oz Scrim Vinyl: Lightweight and versatile, perfect for indoor and outdoor use
- 9oz Mesh Vinyl: Heavy-duty mesh material ideal for windy areas with 80/20 mesh weave
- 18oz Blockout Vinyl: Our thickest, most durable option, great for double-sided printing and pole banners
What sizes are available for trade show banners and displays?
Our vinyl banners are available in standard sizes from 2’x4′ up to 5’x10′, with custom sizes available upon request. For trade show displays, we offer retractable banner stands from 24″ to 60″ wide, pop-up displays up to 30′ wide, and custom canopy tents from 5’x5′ to 10’x20′.
How long do outdoor vinyl banners last?
Our vinyl banners are designed for durability with a 6-month warranty against manufacturer defects. With proper care and installation, outdoor banners typically last 1-3 years depending on weather conditions and UV exposure.
What are feather flags and banner flags?
Feather flags (also called banner flags) are tall, eye-catching promotional displays perfect for outdoor events, storefronts, and trade shows. They’re available in 8′, 10′, 12′, and 15′ heights with single or double-sided printing options. Each kit includes the flag, pole hardware, ground stake, and carry bag. Read our article, 6 Creative ways Feather Flags can invite curiosity
Pricing & Ordering
How much does large format printing cost?
Pricing varies based on size, material, and quantity. For example, a 48″x24″ 13oz vinyl banner starts at $21, while a 72″x36″ banner starts at $34. We offer competitive wholesale pricing and volume discounts. Contact us for a custom quote on your specific project.
What’s your typical turnaround time?
Most standard vinyl banners and basic trade show displays can be completed in 2-5 business days. Rush orders are available for an additional fee. Complex custom displays may require 7-14 days. We’ll provide an accurate timeline when you place your order.
Do you offer bulk pricing or wholesale rates?
Yes! We offer competitive wholesale pricing for bulk orders and work with resellers, event planners, and businesses with ongoing printing needs. Contact us to discuss volume pricing for your specific requirements.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, business checks, and offer net terms for established commercial accounts. Payment is typically required before production begins unless you have an approved credit account with us.
Technical & Production Questions
What is “bleed” and why is it important?
Bleed is the extra area around your design that extends beyond the final cut line. We require a bleed area to ensure there are no white borders on your finished product. Keep all important text and graphics within the “safe zone” to ensure they won’t be cut off during finishing.
Should I outline fonts in my design files?
Yes, all fonts must be outlined (converted to paths) to prevent font substitution issues. If you can’t outline fonts, save your file as a high-resolution JPG to preserve the text appearance.
What is rich black and when should I use it?
Rich black (C:50, M:50, Y:50, K:100) creates deeper, more saturated black areas compared to process black (K:100 only). We recommend rich black for large solid black areas and will convert process black to rich black unless specifically instructed otherwise.
Shipping & Installation
Do you offer installation services?
While we don’t provide installation services directly, we can recommend trusted installation partners in the Orange County area for complex displays, vehicle wraps, or large-scale signage projects.
What are your shipping options?
We offer standard ground shipping, expedited shipping, and work with customer-arranged third-party shipping services. Local customers can also arrange for pickup at our facility. All shipping costs are calculated based on size, weight, and destination.
Can I use my own shipping company?
Absolutely! We work with customers who prefer to use their own third-party shipping services. Please note that you’ll be responsible for packaging requirements, shipping costs, and any damage or loss that occurs during transit.
Care & Maintenance
How should I care for my vinyl banners?
Clean vinyl banners with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing. When storing, roll banners rather than folding to prevent cracking. Keep stored banners in a dry location away from extreme temperatures.
Can banners be repaired if damaged?
Minor repairs like re-hemming edges or adding grommets can often be done. However, tears, holes, or UV damage typically require reprinting. We’re happy to assess damaged banners and recommend the best solution.
How do I prevent wind damage to my outdoor displays?
For windy conditions, use mesh vinyl banners or add wind slits to solid vinyl banners. Ensure proper anchoring with ground stakes, water weights, or sandbags. Consider taking down displays during severe weather conditions.
Special Services & Custom Work
Do you create custom shapes and die-cuts?
Yes! We can create custom die-cut shapes for stickers, special displays, and unique applications. Custom shapes require a die-cut line created as a spot color named “CutContour” in your artwork files.
Can you print on materials other than vinyl?
Absolutely! We print on fabric, canvas, mesh, coroplast, foam core, and various specialty materials. Each material has specific applications – contact us to discuss the best option for your project.
Do you offer eco-friendly printing options?
We’re committed to sustainable practices and offer eco-friendly substrates and printing options when available. Ask about our environmentally conscious materials for your next project.
Getting Started
How do I get a quote for my project?
Contact us at 562-488-7071, email justin@thetradeshowgallery.org, or visit our website at www.thetradeshowgallery.org to request a quote. Provide details about your project including size, quantity, material preferences, and timeline for the most accurate pricing.
What information do I need to provide when ordering?
To ensure smooth processing, please provide:
- Final print-ready artwork files
- Exact dimensions needed
- Material preferences
- Quantity required
- Desired completion date
- Shipping/pickup preferences
- Any special finishing requirements
Do you provide proofs before printing?
Yes, we provide digital proofs for all orders to ensure accuracy before production begins. We recommend reviewing proofs carefully, as changes after approval may result in additional charges.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you need eye-catching vinyl banners, professional trade show displays, or custom large format printing solutions, The Tradeshow Gallery Printing Co. is here to help your business stand out from the competition.
Contact us today:
- Phone: 562-488-7071
- Email: justin@thetradeshowgallery.org
- Website: www.thetradeshowgallery.org
- Follow us: @thetradeshowgallery on Instagram
Explore More Resources:
- Browse our complete 2025 Product Catalog for inspiration and detailed specifications
- Check out our portfolio of successful projects on our website
- Connect with us on LinkedIn for industry insights and updates
- Visit our Perplexity Space for in-depth information about our capabilities
Don’t forget – new customers receive a complimentary one-hour graphic design consultation (a $55 value) with their first order. Let us help bring your vision to life with professional-quality large format printing that gets results!
Ready to make an impact? Contact The Tradeshow Gallery Printing Co. today and discover why businesses throughout Orange County and Southern California trust us for their large format printing and trade show display needs.