Eco Friendly Step and Repeat Banners and Backdrops

Eco Friendly Printer prints step and repeat banners for galas, product launches, award nights, press events and fundraisers, along with trade show backdrops for booth back walls. A step and repeat is a large backdrop printed with logos in a repeating pattern, set up where guests, speakers and sponsors are photographed. We print them on PVC-free polyester fabric that can be washed and reused, or on vinyl when a job calls for it, and we size each backdrop to the stand you plan to use.

How a step and repeat banner works

The name comes from the way the artwork is built. A logo is placed, the layout steps over, and the logo is repeated across the full backdrop. Logos are usually set in a staggered grid, so a photo taken from any angle shows at least one complete logo beside the person standing in front. Event hosts often alternate their own logo with sponsor logos, which gives sponsors visibility in every photo shared after the event.

Common uses

• Red carpet and press walls at galas, product launches and award shows
• Sponsor backdrops at fundraisers, races and nonprofit events
• Trade show backdrops for 10 ft and 20 ft booths
• Photo backdrops for weddings, parties and company events

Sizes

8 ft wide by 8 ft tall is the most common step and repeat size and fits two or three people in a photo. 10 ft wide by 8 ft tall suits larger groups and matches the back wall of a standard 10 ft trade show booth. 20 ft wide by 8 ft tall backdrops fit 20 ft booths and large press walls. We also print custom sizes to fit a stand you already own. Our banner size guide lists standard event and booth dimensions.

Materials and stands

Fabric. Our fabric backdrops are printed on PVC-free polyester by dye sublimation, which prints the color into the fabric. The result is a matte surface that does not reflect camera flashes. Fabric folds for storage and shipping, and it can be washed and reused at the next event.

Vinyl. Vinyl backdrops are stiffer and hang flat, and they are available when a job requires them. Vinyl is harder to recycle than fabric, so we recommend fabric for backdrops that will be used more than once.

Stands. Backdrops are finished with pole pockets or grommets to fit an adjustable telescoping stand. The stand breaks down for transport and can be used again with new graphics. If you already own a stand, send us its dimensions and we will size the backdrop to fit.

How the eco choices apply to backdrops

Many event backdrops are printed on PVC vinyl and discarded after a single event. A fabric step and repeat avoids PVC, can be cleaned between events and packs into a much smaller box. Leaving the date and event name off the backdrop lets you use it for several years. When sponsors change, you can order a new printed graphic for the stand you already have rather than replacing the full setup. For other PVC-free options, see biodegradable banners and signs and banners.

Design and file setup tips

• Send vector logos (AI, EPS or PDF) so they stay sharp at large sizes.
• Size each logo so it reads clearly in a photo taken from a few feet away. Logos about 12 to 18 in wide are common on an 8 ft backdrop.
• Use a solid background color and avoid fine detail, which can be lost in photos.
• Tell us if your venue requires flame-retardant material.

How ordering works

Send your artwork or logos, the backdrop size, the material and your event date, and tell us if you need a stand. You can start your order online. We will confirm the material and the finishing, send a proof and give you a price before anything is printed. Trade show and event backdrops typically take about two weeks. For the rest of your booth, see retractable banners, table throws and our page on printing for events and trade shows.

Common questions about step and repeat banners

What is a step and repeat?

A step and repeat is a backdrop printed with one or more logos in a repeating pattern. It is used at galas, press events, launches and trade shows so that every photo taken in front of it shows the host's or sponsors' logos.

What size is a standard step and repeat banner?

8 ft wide by 8 ft tall is the most common size. 10 ft wide by 8 ft tall is used for larger groups and for the back wall of a 10 ft trade show booth.

Is fabric or vinyl better for a step and repeat?

Fabric has a matte surface that does not reflect camera flashes, folds for storage and can be washed and reused. Vinyl hangs flatter but is harder to recycle. We recommend fabric for most events.

Can a step and repeat banner be reused?

Yes. Fabric backdrops can be washed and used again, and the stand can be reused with a new printed graphic when your logos or sponsors change.

Can a step and repeat be used as a trade show backdrop?

Yes. A backdrop 10 ft wide by 8 ft tall fits the back wall of a standard 10 ft booth, and a 20 ft wide backdrop fits a 20 ft booth.

• Repeating logo backdrops for events and press walls
• PVC-free polyester fabric that can be washed and reused
• Vinyl available when a job requires it
• Matte fabric surface that does not reflect camera flashes
• 8 x 8 ft, 10 x 8 ft, 20 x 8 ft and custom sizes
• Pole pockets or grommets for adjustable stands