Trade show graphic elements are the primary focus of most trade show displays, and thus, to have a successful trade show display you must be able to produce graphic designs that are attractive and will catch the eye of passers-by. However; don’t mistake eye-catching for loud and gaudy, as designs that are too over the top can work against you by turning away potential customers.

The primary focus when deciding on trade show display graphics is size, as this will affect the types of graphics you can use effectively, as well as affecting your trade show budget. Remember that you can’t just pick a graphic and blow it up as large as you want - the graphic has to be of an appropriate resolution that it can be enlarged without losing quality. The size of your design will also be affected by the printer type, as Lambda graphics produce higher-quality renderings than inkjet printing, so if inkjet is what you choose to go with (due to budget restrictions or availability) you may need a higher resolution graphic in order to get a professional-looking display.

A secondary consideration are the colors you choose to use within your trade show display graphics, as these should complement your booth, banners, and other display components. The fonts you decide to use within your display are also an important factor, as these will help brand your company and allow visitors to recognize you wherever you go. Ensuring that your colours and fonts on your existing trade show components work well with your new graphics should be given high priority.

When designing trade show display graphics it is much easier to create a cohesive display to mesh with your other trade show display components if all graphics are created within the same program, regardless of the program chosen. Otherwise, you may find that there are some slight differences with the rendering of font or colour that can affect how your graphics work together.

Above all else, if you are not a designer then get help from a professional. Designers who are experienced with trade show display graphics can create attractive, eye-catching graphics to help your company stand out at your next trade show event.