How to use Standees, X-Stands, and Roll-Ups
Standees, X-stands, and roll-ups are freestanding displays used to communicate a brand, promotion, or key information at events, booths, retail stores, and offices. The right choice depends on budget, available space, how often the display needs to be moved, and the level of visual impact required.
How They Differ
| Type | Key Features | Best For | Cautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standee |
A freestanding display, often die-cut into a custom shape such as a person, mascot, or special design |
Photo spots, wayfinding signs, promotional corners, storefronts |
Design it to stand securely and be clearly visible from a distance |
| X-Stand | An X-shaped rear frame that holds a vinyl/PVC banner at all four corners; lightweight and inexpensive | Short-term events, promotional signs, narrow spaces, frequent graphic changes | Not suitable for strong wind or prolonged outdoor use because it is less stable |
| Roll-up |
A PVC printed banner rolls into an aluminum base; pull it up and secure it to a pole for fast setup |
Trade-show booths, conferences, booth entrances, frequent reuse |
More expensive than an X-stand; avoid windy areas unless it can be secured |
Additional Notes
- ◉ Standee: Best used as a primary visual focal point, such as a presenter cutout, mascot, or photo-op sign. It helps create brand recall and makes the booth look more distinctive.
- ◉ X-Stand: Best used as a supporting sign for daily promotions, special prices, QR codes, or information that changes often, because the printed banner is easy to replace and transport.
- ◉ Roll-Up: Best used as the main booth display, such as the brand name, key product benefits, or main offer. Place it in a highly visible location along the main walkway; it is suitable for repeated use and has a premium appearance.
Placement Tips
- Place the roll-up at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the walkway so that people approaching from both directions can see the message, while avoiding blocking the booth entrance.
- Use the roll-up as the booth’s main visual, then use X-stands to highlight promotions or frequently changing information. This helps communicate clearly and makes the budget go further.
- Include only essential content, such as the main headline, two to three key selling points, a starting price, and a QR code. Avoid adding too much detailed text.
- Use high-resolution image files, choose colors that contrast with the background, and add spotlights if the event lighting is insufficient to make the display stand out.
- Place die-cut standees according to the artwork to make the booth more eye-catching.
Material Selection
| Material | Characteristics | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Futuristic board / PP board | Lightweight corrugated plastic or board; inexpensive and can be printed with PVC stickers | Indoor standees or short-term outdoor use |
| Foam board | Lightweight foam sheet that is easy to die-cut into custom shapes | Indoor displays, promotional signs, and displays that are moved frequently |
| PVC foam sheet (Forex) | Rigid PVC foam sheet; more water- and sunlight-resistant than futuristic board and less likely to swell | Outdoor standees or longer-term use |
| Acrylic | Rigid, attractive, and premium-looking, but heavier and more expensive | Retail standees or displays that require a modern, high-end look |
| PVC | Durable polyvinyl chloride sheet; waterproof, tear-resistant, and resistant to sunlight and heat | X-stands and roll-ups, adding a more premium finish |
Quick Selection Guide
- ✓ Budget-friendly and short-term: Standee or X-stand
- ✓ Portable, professional main display: Roll-up
- ✓ Creative and photo-friendly: Standee
- ✓ Frequently changing information: X-stand
- ✓ Outdoor use: Standee made from durable material
