Banners are among the most versatile advertising tools, offering endless design, message, and branding possibilities. That said, one of the most overlooked ways to make your banners stand out and impact your target audience is to choose the right banner shape. This guide will help you understand different banner shapes and their ideal applications.
From traditional rectangular banners to eye-catching custom shapes, learn how you can use different types of banners effectively for various applications.
The Impact of Unique Banner Shapes
Banner shapes do more than hold graphics and text; they play a critical role in guiding the viewer's attention, complementing the environment, and aligning with the message the banner is designed to convey. The right shape can help increase the banner's visibility by grabbing passersby's attention, even in busy environments like tradeshows and other events.
Custom shapes can also reinforce your branding and identity. If you are a bold brand that regularly features unique designs in your packaging, advertising, and products, banners that differ from the standard rectangular outline can help reinforce that image.
Custom-shaped banners can also fit more appropriately into specific functions and environments. Whether it’s fitting a banner into an oddly-shaped window, hanging a triangular, pennant-shaped banner from the ceiling, or even just lining a tradeshow booth with banners that outline your unique company logo, banners can be custom-cut to fit just about any design or space requirement.
Common Banner Shapes and Their Applications
Here’s just a basic overview of some of the more common banner shapes and how they are usually used.
Rectangular Banners
Rectangular-shaped banners are by far the most common, but that is for a good reason. They are highly versatile and can be designed in horizontal or vertical orientations. They work exceptionally well for lining tradeshow booths, creating branded backdrops, lining lampposts, and marking entrances to buildings and rooms.
Since they offer plenty of space for design elements and information, they can have highly detailed designs. Whether you choose to hang them vertically or pin them horizontally, they can be incredibly useful for a wide range of applications.
Square Banners
Square banners are more compact, so they tend to be a more practical option for locations where there are space constraints, like storefront windows. Like rectangular banners, they can quickly convey promotional messages, branding elements, and more. The fact they are so compact also means they are highly portable, which can be really useful for tradeshows, temporary outdoor advertisements, and more.
The even sides also make it easy to draw the viewer’s eyes to the centre of the banner, which can be great if you want to communicate a specific image or message.
One unique use for square banners that is growing in popularity is using them as giant QR codes that can be scanned to connect viewers to your website, social media, a landing page for a contest, and much more. Connecting real-world viewers to your brand’s digital presence can be an effective way to generate leads that may otherwise not make such a lasting connection with your brand.
Circular Banners
Circular banners have a unique and modern look that can help stand out, especially when positioned alongside more traditional shapes, like squares and rectangles.
For corporate and commercial events, window displays, and branded photo areas, circular banners can be incredibly effective at naturally drawing the eye. Like square banners, they also have a central focal point, which can help your logo or brand name stand out from the crowd.
The soft and rounded edges also have an inviting appearance, which can help viewers feel comfortable interacting with your brand in a crowded space.
Triangle Banners
Triangular banners have a dynamic appearance that also draws the eye. Since they can be oriented to have a clear focal point, they can also be used as branded directional cues.
At crowded tradeshows, having branded triangular directional banners that direct attendees to your booth or space can help encourage foot traffic and brand recognition. Even inside stores and offices, you can use triangular banners to encourage viewers to find a product you are trying to promote.
In some cases, small triangular banners can be hung like bunting, giving your booth or business a fun and festive vibe that makes people feel welcome.
Custom-Shaped Banners
Fully customized banners can take on any shape. From logo and product silhouettes to more abstract designs, these unique banners can give your brand a truly professional appearance.
When viewers see that you have invested in this level of customization, it can reinforce their trust in your brand and its messaging.
Choosing the Right Banner for Your Needs
If you’re unsure which direction to go with your banners but want to make sure they have an impact, it’s always a good idea to consider what they will be used for.
For example, more formal corporate events and permanent displays might require more traditional rectangular banners, while tradeshows and promotional events might allow you to be more creative with your designs.
You should also consider whether the banners will be used indoors or outdoors, as certain shapes are more durable when exposed to wind. This is also a good time to consider the type of material they will be printed on.
Finally, the message you want to convey is important. If you wish to display your brand’s name and logo, a more compact banner might do the trick. On the other hand, if you want to convey detailed information, a lengthy rectangular banner might provide the space you need without appearing overly crowded and busy.
Make Carbon Graphics Group Your Trusted Partner
When creating custom banners that deliver exceptional results, Carbon Graphics Group is the go-to partner for businesses across all industries. Our design and printing experience, combined with our state-of-the-art printing technology, means that your banners will have high-resolution graphics and text that will last. We can also custom print your banners to just about any shape you can think of, ensuring your banners are as unique as your brand itself.
No matter what industry your company operates in, let Carbon Graphics Group show you how we can help you stand out. Beyond custom banners, we also print flags, construction hoardings, standing displays, custom stationery and brand assets, fence banners, and so much more.
