When it comes to trade show booth design, six trends have dominated for inlines and islands over the past five years.
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With the exception of basic portable displays, modern trade show exhibits are bigger, brighter, and curvier than ever. Even traditional square and rectangle booths have gotten more upscale as customization has gotten easier and more affordable. Rentals included. Gone are those basic and battered booths so common from show organizers and general service contractors (GSC). Now, it’s nearly impossible to tell a purchased booth from a rented one from most exhibit houses. In other words, trade show booth design, construction, and ownership are more flexible and beautiful than ever before.
Every perfect trade show booth design starts with identifying your audience, marketing goals, and trade show budget. Exhibit designers use this information as the first step, then they’ll ask additional questions to fine-tune the booth to your specific requirements. For example – they’ll identify whether you need storage, meeting areas, overhead signage, and accessories like monitors, literature trays, charging stands, etc. They’ll even determine if you’ll need rental furniture like office chairs, sofas, and end tables and suggest styles to match your graphic design.
The 15 trade show booth design examples below show recent design trends in custom, modular, and portable displays, along with sustainable exhibits and rentals. Don’t be afraid to drill down on what works (and doesn’t work) for your booth design vision. Then share them with the exhibit designer.
1. GK-: Island Exhibit
A well-designed trade show island exhibit should be attractive, inviting, informative, and practical. The GK- does all that… and more. It combines a casual meeting space with functional counters for product samples. The design includes a reception counter, also with locking storage. Throughout the island, there are large graphic opportunities at multiple angles to attract attendees from every aisle, including a 16 ft. tower.
Many of the flat panels are from the patented Gravitee System, which connects without tools or loose parts, making assembly much easier than traditional panels. The Large Aero Overhead Hanging Sign pulls it all together with internal and external graphics.
2. GK-: Island Exhibit
It’s the complete package. The GK- island maximizes the available space with double-sided curved panels. The design includes iPad workstations, monitor mounts, and a presentation area. There’s an attractive custom reception counter with a backlit graphic and LED accent lights. In addition, the islands have multiple seating areas all with USB charging ports so your clients can charge their phones and tablets. All the curved panels are from the patented Gravitee System, so individual panels connect without tools and there are no loose parts or pieces.
3. RE-: Island Exhibit
An island exhibit doesn’t have to stand tall or be overly complicated. It simply has to fit your tradeshow marketing needs… and get noticed. The RE- rental island has two eye-catching double-sided SuperNova lightboxes. These lightboxes assemble quickly and are always the star attraction in any booth space. The RE- has a large full-size closet along with storage in each reception counter.
In addition, the closets do double duty, serving as lightboxes on the two longer sides and supporting a monitor in the lounge. High above, there’s an Aero Triangle Hanging Sign so you’re sure to attract attention from across the show hall.
4. RE-: Rental Island
The RE- Rental Island goes way beyond a pretty picture. We’ve incorporated key features such as large graphics, private and semi-private conference rooms, towers with locking storage access, and workstations and reception counters with secure storage. Not enough? Then add product shelves, large and small monitors for presentations, a variety of light fixtures, and hanging signs for high visibility from anywhere on the show floor.
5. ECO-: Sustainable Island
Looking for a big bang on a modest budget? Plus a sustainable design? The ECO- doesn’t disappoint with (3) double-sided backlit towers, fabric graphics, ample meeting space, and an amazing reception counter with locking storage. The open format allows for multiple entries into the booth, which can often be a challenge for an island exhibit. The 12 ft. tower can support a large monitor and there is enough space for presentations. All that and built with eco-friendly materials.
6. ECO-: Sustainable Exhibit
The ECO- Sustainable Exhibit takes a traditional square design and transforms it into a more inviting space with curves. There are two demo stations facing the aisles, a backlit counter with storage, and a cozy lounge in the middle. The large overhead attached sign ensures you’ll be seen from any angle on the show floor. You go to trade shows to be seen… so be seen with the ECO- 20 x 20 island booth.
1. Travel Portland Custom Booth
A city known for its vibrant culture, arts, food, bicycling, festivals, and nightlife, Travel Portland wanted to present a multi-sensory experience of the city. This island exhibit needed to flex for use at three shows per year in a 20×20 or 20×30 configuration. One requires an informational experience, one focuses on setting meetings with destination planners, and one is focused solely on the attendee’s sensory experience. The ability to change out graphics easily for each show was paramount. Travel Portland requested lightweight components to reduce shipping costs and a modular structure that was easy to assemble and easy to reconfigure between 20×20 and 20×30.
2. Google’s Custom Booth
Google wanted a fun, creative, almost childlike atmosphere in their island exhibit, similar to the vibe in Google offices around the world. Google had a long wish list of functional requirements: multiple seating areas, interactive spaces including a selfie wall, storage for swag, a tall visible structure, a distinctive hanging sign, a prominent reception counter, and strong digital moments. All of which had to fit in a 20×20 space without feeling cramped. Finally, the 20×20 had to be easily reconfigurable into larger booth sizes at future shows.
3. Custom Booth for Slate
Slate wanted a welcoming, attention-grabbing, and professional atmosphere that incorporated a Seattle theme where the event was held. They needed multiple meeting spaces, product demo workstations, and large-scale eye-catching graphics. They reserved a unique 20×60 space that spanned the windowed atrium between the two show halls. Slate’s nature-themed design in the arched atrium complemented the space and appeared to extend far beyond the 20×60 footprint it occupied.
4. Home To Go Custom Exhibit
As a first-time exhibitor in the US market, Home To Go wanted an impressive presence at their industry’s largest event. Throughout the year, they exhibit in 10×30, 10×20, and 10×10 shows, requiring their exhibit structure to be flexible yet visually consistent. Home To Go’s strategy for increasing visibility was to “glow.” They chose an expansive 30 ft. back wall lightbox with a surrounding wood frame. The outside of the frame is covered in a dark woodgrain laminate, and the inside is laminated with Home To Go’s signature purple, which further reflects the light from the backlit graphic.
5. Custom Booth for Odyssey Foods
Odyssey Foods wanted attendees to sample their unique products in an intimate yet approachable experience that mimics an authentic Seattle bistro. An effective chef demo was critical, including seating for buyer conversations and a large menu board to showcase recipes being prepared. This demo area needed easy access to a private prep and storage area. Additionally, the client required real and engaging display areas to showcase the array of Odyssey products. The ongoing menu and product updates required multiple large areas for signage that could be easily changed.
1. GK-: Inline Exhibit
No corporate exhibitor wants a generic exhibit. They want a modern display tailored to their message and tradeshow marketing mission. The GK- is ideal for serious exhibitors who want to show products and big images. The exhibits include shelves, monitor mount, and storage, including both walk-in and counter storage.
The Gravitee One-Step back wall assembles quickly with modular panels. Graphic choices include tension fabric or direct prints depending on your preference. Best of all, the 10 ft. inline can be expanded to a versatile 20 ft. display.
2. VK-: Modular Exhibit
Striking the right balance between aesthetics and performance is crucial for any trade show display. The VK- blends them two perfectly with bold graphics, backlighting, practical features, and convenient storage. This exhibit offers a large backlit graphic for high impact along with direct print headers. In addition, there are shelves to showcase products and back wall storage with an internal shelf.
The VK- includes the MOD- backlit counter with storage… There’s no question . . . this exhibit will be the star of any trade show.
3. VK-: Backlit Inline
Clean, dynamic, inviting, and practical. The VK- strikes the ideal balance of large backlit graphics, tablet/monitor(s), and casual seating, all in well-defined spaces with appropriate social distancing. The large backlit fabric graphics create a seamless visual presentation whether in the 10 or 20 ft. inline configurations.
The individual sections work as modules, allowing exhibitors to grow or adapt to their changing trade show schedule. In addition, there’s ample locking storage and optional charging stations built into the counters and tables.
4. VK-: Modular Inline
Get comfortable with the VK- Series. They feature large, bold graphics, curved structures, and casual seating for 10-12 in the island version and 6 in the 20 ft. inline version. While relaxing your guests can charge their smartphones or tablets with the MOD- coffee table charging stations.
Each charging station can be branded and comes with an attractive LED perimeter glow. You also find ample storage with a full-size closet and a reception counter with a locking door and shelf. Not enough? There are monitor options, downlighting, and uplighting.
5. SYK-: Symphony Portable Display
For too long, portable displays have sacrificed elegant design for visual simplicity. Not anymore. Introducing Symphony, the first portable/modular display to blend easy toolless assembly with elegant design and clever accessories.
With Symphony, there are no compromises and no tradeoffs. Simply a beautiful upscale display at a price that’s thousands less than most custom modular exhibits.
1. RE-: Rental Inline Booth
You want a distinctive custom design, easy to assemble (without tools), lightweight construction, and modular reconfigurability. Welcome to Gravitee! The RE- Rental Inline Booth features panels that connect without tools or loose parts, SEG or fabric graphics, fully assembled flat or curved panels, and a wide range of accessories, like lights, shelves, and monitor mounts. The entire display packs in a fabric-lined, fully jigged custom crate. Each component is numbered for effortless assembly.
2. RE-: Lightbox Exhibit
Lights combined with colorful graphics may be the single most important key to attracting attention on the trade show floor. The RE- turns the table on traditional lightbox designs by “stepping” (5) 4 ft. x 8 ft. individual lightboxes. The stepping creates visual depth and interest while allowing an exhibitor to tell a compelling story through a sequenced graphic presentation.
The design includes ample room for a casual meeting space (which can be a challenge in an inline) and the charging table with LED accent lights creates a casual yet business-like setting. The RE- reception counter has attractive backlit graphics and locking storage. Plus, the RE- assembles quickly and packs flat in a wood crate for convenient shipping.
3. RE-: Rental Inline Exhibit
A well-designed inline exhibit maximizes the overall space. The 20 ft. RE- rental does all that and more. It includes multiple counters and workstations, all with locking storage and LED perimeter lights. For additional visual “pop,” there are (3) double-sided SuperNova LED lightboxes with fabric graphics. The back wall has (4) monitor stations for demos. There’s even a small bistro table with wireless charging for casual meetings with potential clients.
4. RE-: Peninsula Rental
Many exhibitors prefer an island peninsula configuration with three-sided entries into the booth (rather than four in a traditional island) The RE- Peninsula Rental comes with a 12 ft. H x 9 ft. W storage tower with graphics and a 12 ft. archway and graphic header. It includes (4) double-sided SuperNova lightboxes with SEG fabric graphics. There are 5 monitor mounts, one each on the lightboxes and one on the tower. There’s a walk-in closet storage and (4) laminate counters and (1) reception counter all with locking storage. For casual meetings on the show, there are also (3) bistro charging tables with LED accent lights.
5. RE-: Rental Island Exhibition Booth
Occam’s Razor states: “The simplest solution is almost always the best.” The RE- Island manages to be both beautiful and welcoming while maximizing the 20 x 20 floor space. It features multiple large format graphics and an overhead hanging sign to draw attention from across the show hall. There are several open entrances along with a contemporary curved reception counter (with branding). The two counter/kiosks stations are perfect for sales presentations, and the large comfortable lounge and charging table makes it easy and convenient to relax with clients. It’s simple, straightforward, and inviting.
1. ECO-: Sustainable Exhibit
The ECO- Sustainable Exhibit offers exhibitors an upscale presence on the show floor with a booth built with eco-friendly materials. This includes a lightweight aluminum frame, green printing materials, LED lights, and FSC wood construction. Features include a large monitor mount, shelves, a curved canopy, a reception counter, and locking storage.
The individual components are numbered for easy assembly and the booth ships in a jigged crate with numbered components. All that and a contemporary modular design that can be expanded to a 10 x 20 display.
2. ECO-: Modern EcoSmart Exhibit
Does your company have a green sustainability initiative? Consider a modern ecoSmart trade show exhibit. The ECO- is built with an aluminum frame and green fabric options. It includes (3) monitor mounts for demos and presentations, cabinets with locking storage, LED lights, and frosted ECO-Glass accents.
The step design provides both stability and privacy. Plus the open floor plan is ideal for meeting space with rental tables and chairs.
3. ECO-: EcoSmart Inline Display
The ecoSmart Inline Displays are design-driven, reconfigurable, and user-friendly. Using the most sustainable materials on the market, these displays prove that you don’t need to look green to be green, and you don’t need to spend more either. You’ll always get the best of both with an ecoSmart. The ECO- features large backlit LED light boxes and fabric graphics with a curved header. Accessories include literature holders and (2) modern counters with locking storage.
4. ECO-: Sustainable EcoSmart Exhibit
Looking for a big bang on a modest budget? Plus a sustainable design? The ECO- doesn’t disappoint with (3) double-sided backlit towers, fabric graphics, ample meeting space, and an amazing reception counter with locking storage. The open format allows for multiple entries into the booth, which can often be a challenge for an island exhibit. The 12 ft. tower can support a large monitor, and there is enough space for presentations. All that and built with eco-friendly materials.
5. ECO-: EcoSmart Island Exhibit
The ecoSmart Island Exhibits are design-driven, reconfigurable, and high-impact. The ECO- Sustainable Exhibit takes a traditional square design and transforms it into a more inviting space with curves. There are two demo stations facing the aisles, a backlit counter with storage, and a cozy lounge in the middle. The large overhead attached sign ensures you’ll be seen from any angle on the show floor. You go to trade shows to be seen… so be seen with the ECO- 20 x 20 island booth.
1. SYK-: Symphony Portable System
For too long, portable displays have been both perfectly functional and perfectly boring. Not with the Symphony Portable System. Choose from 8 SEG frame shapes and 17 distinctive accessories to create an elegant portable display that assembles without tools. Best of all, the modular designs lets you reimagine your trade show marketing from show to show. Personalize your Symphony Display with attractive counters, workstations, floating graphics, iPad clamshells, and monitor mounts. Add floating graphics for additional visual layering and branding.
2. VK-: Sacagawea Portable Hybrid Design
The affordable Sacagawea Portable Hybrid is a contemporary display designed with lightweight engineered aluminum and vibrant tension fabric graphics. Using knob-assisted assembly, the Sacagawea sets up quickly, typically in less than 40 minutes for a 10 ft. display. All components are individually numbered and packed in durable roto-molded cases with custom die-cut foam packaging. Options include workstations, pedestals, fabric canopies, headers, iPad accessories, and monitors.
3. VK-: SuperNova Lightbox Design
Not all lightboxes are the same. SuperNova Lightboxes are brighter, bolder, and more durable. When combined with our HD fabric graphics, no lightbox is more vibrant or attracts more attention. The VK- is an attractive, practical, and portable lightbox display designed for the serious exhibitor. It includes SEG fabric and direct print graphics, shelves, and a monitor mount.
4. SYK-: Symphony Booth Design
Symphony is the first portable/modular display to blend easy toolless assembly with elegant design and clever accessories. With Symphony, there are no compromises and no tradeoffs. Simply a beautiful upscale display at a price that’s thousands less than most custom modular exhibits. Unleash the designer within you. Create the perfect 10, 20, or 30 ft. display by selecting from stylish back wall shapes and distinctive counters and workstations. The mix-and-match flexibility encourages unlimited design possibilities.
5. VK-: SEGUE Sunrise with Fabric Graphics
Considering a lightweight portable display, then consider the toolless SEGUE Sunrise with fabric graphics. The Sunrise offers all the advantages of a portable display — affordability, ease of set-up, and a large graphic – with the benefits of a large format tension fabric graphic, durable aluminum frame, and no-tools assembly. Assembly takes less than 20 minutes for most kits. Best of all, the 7 ½ x 7 ½ silicone edge graphic guarantees a perfect fit every time, and the fabric graphics mean worry-free performance from show to show. You can even wash them. Made in the USA. Lifetime warranty on workmanship.
1. VK-: SuperNova™ LED Inline
The innovative SuperNova™ LED Inline lightboxes combine exceptionally bright LED lights, modular engineering, an aluminum frame, and silicone edge fabric graphics into a brilliant eye-catching display. The SuperNova LED lights are attached to the frame which makes assembly easy and packaging a snap.
2. MOD-D: SEGUE Lightboxes
SEGUE Lightboxes take a familiar concept, lightboxes, and transform them into a two-sided billboard using lightweight aluminum and tension fabric graphics. Better yet, these are not ordinary graphics. They are silicone edge graphics or SEG. The shelves make this truly versatile at trade shows, events, and even retail spaces.
3. VK-: SEGUE Table Top Design
Any good table top display should be lightweight, attractive, and easy to assemble. SEGUE table top designs do all that and more. The SEGUE-engineered aluminum frame is durable and assembles without tools. The vibrant silicone edge fabric graphics fit into a simple groove, making the set-up error-free every time.
4. MOD-: Wireless Charging Bistro Table
Cell Phones have not only become indispensable to our lives, but they have also become indispensable to trade shows, events, retail environments, and meetings. Charging them can be a challenge. Charging Stations attract attention and are a popular convenience for potential and existing clients.
Link to Norder
5. MOD-: Coffee Charging Table
When choosing the right charging station, consider how you will use it on the show floor, event, or in a retail setting. Is it for a permanent installation or a temporary meeting? Do the graphics need to change from event to event? All these options and more are available.
1. VK-: SEGUE Sunrise
If you are considering a lightweight portable display, then consider the tool-less SEGUE Sunrise with fabric graphics. The Sunrise offers all the advantages of a portable display – affordability, ease of set-up, and a large graphic – with the benefits of a large format tension fabric graphic, durable aluminum frame, and no-tools assembly. Assembly takes less than 20 minutes for most kits.
2. VK-: Sacagawea Portable Hybrid
The affordable Sacagawea Portable Hybrid is a contemporary display designed with lightweight engineered aluminum and vibrant tension fabric graphics. Using knob-assisted assembly, the Sacagawea sets up quickly, typically in less than 40 minutes for a 10 ft. display. All components are individually numbered and packed in durable roto-molded cases with custom die-cut foam packaging.
3. RE-: Symphony Portable Display
Inexpensive and upscale… that’s the beauty of a Symphony Portable Display. The Symphony’s engineered aluminum frame is designed to last years of trade show service and the SEG fabric graphics are lightweight, vibrant, and elegant. The display packs in a durable roto-molded case with wheels and includes die-cut foam packaging for secure shipping.
4. RE-: Symphony Portable Display
Budget doesn’t mean basic with a Symphony Portable Display. The RE- is an exceptional rental display with gentle curves, LED lights, and a monitor mount. It even includes a backwall workstation with wireless charging pads for your .
Many new exhibitors don’t know where to start with exhibition booth design. Fortunately, Classic Exhibits has a vast library of past projects and contemporary exhibit designs to jumpstart the process. Sometimes the ideal booth has already been designed and built and only needs a few tweaks to match your vision. Other times, exhibitors will select ideas from multiple exhibits to create their perfect display. Either way, we’re ready to lend a hand and turn your vision into a reality.
Classic Exhibits has been designing and building solutions since . We’ve been honored as an Exhibitor Magazine Find-It Top 40 Exhibit Producers and an Event Marketer Fab 50 Exhibit Builders multiple times. Along with numerous Portable Modular Awards.
Tags: Exhibit Design, exhibit design ideas, Exhibitions, tradeshows
So you're preparing for your next craft fair, and you want to put together the perfect booth so you can attract more customers and sell more of your creations.
We've been in your shoes before, and that's why we've put together this collection of craft fair booth setup ideas to inspire you.
First, we've collected more than a dozen craft fair booth layout ideas, including DIY and affordable displays that you can try for your next booth. And we've included 33 of our best craft fair booth tips to make sure you have the absolute best experience.
All of our tips and ideas come from years of experience in craft fairs, trade shows, and vendor events, and we're excited to share them with you!
This is part of a larger craft fair series, and we'll link those articles here when they're ready. For now, you can find 10x10 craft booth layout ideas and tips for selling more at craft fairs here.
Now, let's jump into the list!
What's inside:
Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means that we may receive a commission if you make a purchase using third-party links.
We've collected some real-life examples from our awesome crafting community!
This outdoor booth setup by MakerFlo Crafter DeeDee Tabani of Gamma Dees Designs ✨
This outdoor booth by MakerFlo Crafter Jessica Wissler of Wissler's Crafty Wonders:
And these two booth setups from MakerFlo Crafter Jessica Eichner of Camo n Hairbows:
Next, discover more ideas from crafters on TikTok:
This booth by @shopgoogoogoods that features display items from Amazon:
@shopgoogoogoods Some Amazon craft fair finds! #craftfair #vendormarket #smallbusiness #craftfairsetup #craftfairprep ♬ original sound - Goo Goo Goods
Booth ideas from @rememberable_resin:
@rememberable_resin You are welcomed to steal! 1. Decorative fencing hung with S hooks. Artwork can be hung with smaller S hooks. ???? 2. Tags that say, “New Happy Customer” to be placed where you sold an item. It’s a quick way to show people that your items are selling like hot cakes! ???? 3. Adding fragrance and decor makes your booth more welcoming and relaxing. ???? 4. Hanging fans that also feature a spotlight. Keep your customers feeling comfortable while shopping. ???? 5. Make your own product displays! Why buy it when you can make it! ???? 6. Adding payment signs let’s your customers know that they have payment options. They may have run out of cash but they have a credit card. ???? 7. Your company logo hung to grab buyers attention. Also, an easier way to find your tent in a sea of tents! ???? Thank you for supporting my small business with big dreams! You can learn about me and my passion at rememberable-resin.square.site Check my bio for more information. #flowerpreservation #weddingideas #pressedflowers #weddinginspiration #driedflowers #handcrafted #smallbusiness #vendorbooths #artfair #vendor #resin #resinjewelry #boothideas #tent ♬ original sound - Rememberable Resin
Market display hacks by @tenbyten.art:
@tenbyten.art Still learning but here’s some vendor tips #vendors #craftvendors #craftmarket #market #craftfairsetup #boothdisplay #boothdisplaytips #boothdisplayideas #vendorlife #craftmarketdisplay #boothsetup #smallbusiness #smallbusinesscheck #craftfairvendor #craftfairtips #howto #cutebooth ♬ EVERYBODY WANTS TO RULE THE WORLD NXS GUDFELLA - NIIKO X SWAE
An awesome booth setup by @thepeachfuzz.co:
@thepeachfuzz.co The grand reveal of my full booth from West Coast Craft’s last big show of the year! I’m obsessed with my new pegboards! It made it feel like a real store! So fun! #craftshowdisplay #craftshowdisplay #craftfairdisplay #craftfairsetup #limitedtoo #smallbusinesscheck ♬ The Tide Is High - Radio Mix - Atomic Kitten
This booth featuring custom tumblers by @hollybeezcreationz:
@hollybeezcreationz #craftfair #craftfairsetup #smallbusinesstiktok #tumblermaker #shoplocal ♬ jedag jedug capcut - afrian af
A successful tumbler display by @rigmaidencreations:
@rigmaidencreations #tumblerdisplayrack #tumblerdisplays #craftfairdisplay #vendorevent #craftfairsetup #rigmaidencreations ♬ There She Goes - Benson Boone
A tumbler display rack made with wooden crates by @kellygarciacreations:
@kellygarciacreations Ready to sell your tumblers? When setting up, remember I need to see it to buy it! #Vendor #vendors #marketvendor #tumblervendor #vendorsetup ♬ Young Forever - JAY-Z
Craft booth ideas from @phoebel.sherman:
@phoebe.sherman What’s your fav craft fair set up item? #craftfair #craftfairdisplay #makersmovement ♬ original sound - Girl Gang Craft
A simple but cute display from @connieomg:
@connieomg My first market hosted by @thechinatown.project was a success !! Can’t wait to vend at more markets ???? . I’d love to make a video about everything I learned if that peeps anyones interest :) . #smallbiz #cuteart #artfairdisplay #vendingdisplays #popupshop #craftfair #craftfairdisplay #marketdisplay #mrketdisplayideas #craftfairsetup ♬ Path of the Wind (My Neighbor Totoro) - Shoyo
This outdoor booth setup by @simply_katy1:
@simply_katy1 This is how my latest craft fair went.. although it rained a little bit, that didnt seem to put people off! ☔️ #craftfair #craftfairsetup #craftfairdisplay #craftfairprep #illustration #illustrator #artist #art ♬ Stolen Dance (Instrumental) - Milky Chance
A custom t-shirt booth by @lexilouscraftingco:
@lexilouscraftingco My first craft fair was a major success. The set up took me a little bit over a week to perfect. For a one day craft fair I had a total of 18 sales!! If you’ve done a craft fair, I’m curious what is something you learned from doing your first one to now? #craftfair #craftfairsetup #craftfairdisplay #craftfairtips #craftfairvendor #popupshop #smallbusiness #smallbiz ♬ ceilings - Sped Up Version - Lizzy McAlpine
Beautiful gazebo net lights:
@shopgoogoogoods Also my most complemented part of my booth at night markets! #vendormarket #craftfair #craftfairsetup #craftfairtips #vendormarketdisplay #craftshow #amazoncraftfairfinds #amazonfinds ♬ original sound - Goo Goo Goods
Dollar Tree finds:
@twolostsoulsdesigns preparing for my first pop-up #dollartree #dollartreefinds #smallbusinesscheck #etsystickershop #magneticbookmarks #vendorbooth #craftfairsetup ♬ Summer - Croquet Club
How to make a DIY checkout stand:
@whaternameis finally! #vendortok #vendortiktok #farmersmarketbooth #vendorbooth #vendorboutique #diydisplay #farmersmarkets #sellinghandmade #popupmarket #vendorshows #vendorevents #craftshows #craftfairdisplay #displayideas #popupshops #popupshopdecor #vendordisplay #checkoutstand #diy #jewelryvendor #diycheckoutstation #craftbooth #displayideas #fyp ♬ Cool modern chill out, 10 minutes() - 8.864
DIY displays from Walmart items:
@whaternameis More details on this @walmart diy vendor display! @whaternameis #vendortok #vendortiktok #vendorbooth #vendordisplayideas #craftfairdisplay #sellinghandmade #farmersmarket #craftshow #craftshowdisplay #farmersmarketbooth #jewelrydisplay #polymerclayearrings #earringdisplay #diydisplay #diy ♬ The Chain ( Remaster) - Fleetwood Mac
A DIY peg board from IKEA items:
@perdita00 Here's how I made a super cute display stand for my pins using an IKEA peg board! Perfect for displaying pins at craft fairs and comic con / artist alley! #artistalley #comiccon #craftfair #pins #artistalleytips #craft #diy ♬ Aesthetic - Tollan Kim
Target finds for your craft booth:
@danadoes.it $5 Display for Craft Fair or Market Booth! #craftable #craftfairbooth #springcraftfair #sellingatcraftfairs #craftfairdisplays #vendorhelp #craftshows #craftfairseason #targetbullseyefinds #targetmusthaves #targethaul #targetrun #targettok ♬ Sunshine - WIRA
Unusual items you can use for craft displays:
@thepeachfuzz.co Get as creative with your craft show displays as you are with your crafts! These are just a few of my favorite items that I’ve loved adapting for display use. Would love to hear what you’d add to this list! #craftshowdisplay #craftfairsetup #craftfairdisplay #craftshowsetup #greenscreen ♬ original sound - The Peach Fuzz
Make sure to pack a cooler with snacks, drinks, and food so you don't have to worry about running out of energy during the show.
We recommend bringing folding chairs for seating. You can use them to sit down when you need a break. When you're done, you can fold and store them so they don't take up precious booth space.
You might be serving customers nonstop, which makes it hard to leave your booth. That's why it's nice to have your meals taken care of by a delivery service like Postmates, Uber Eats, or DoorDash.
If you can, bring a friend with you to help you work your booth! It's tough to be on duty all day long. It's really hard to set up and pack down your booth, take breaks, and help each customer if you have no one else to work with.
@thelanyardboutique He actually loves it, I promise! #smallbusiness #smallbusinesscheck #smallbusinessowner #marketdisplay #market #craftfair #craftfairdisplay #craftfairhumor ♬ original sound - J2 Cattle Farm
Plan out your layout on grid paper or a design software like Canva, so you know exactly how everything will fit!
If you haven't yet, now is the time to start thinking about signage and marketing materials. You can design things like posters, table runners, table signs, or other images in Canva. Use brand colors and include your shop name and what you sell. This is something you want to be working on 4 weeks ahead if you can.
@paperbunnypress I'm still in shock at the amount of people who told me they saw the vid of me making my tent sign at my last market. #artshowprep #craftfairtips #craftfairdisplay #stationerysmallbusiness #funnygreetingcards #funnysticker ♬ original sound - Paper Bunny Press
Cash is great, but you don't want to have to turn down customers who don't have cash on them or didn't plan to spend a lot. Something like Square, Shopify POS, or PayPal POS can help people make purchases with whatever they have. On top of that, adding Cash App and Zelle payments to your shop will give your customers even more options!
Not everyone who visits your booth will come to buy. But you can still get their contact info as a future lead. Create a signup sheet for emails in exchange for emails or a chance to win something. Then you can reach out to later when they might be ready to buy.
Booths aren't only for selling! Try running a make-and-take event or other interactive craft or activity to bring in new customers and interest them in what you sell.
Ask the craft show staff if they call out announcements over the intercom. If they do, you could announce a deal, special, or time sale at your booth and get more traffic that way.
Make sure you have an attractive way to package your items after they're sold. The customer experience doesn't end at the sale--packaging is also part of it! MakerFlo tumblers, for example, come with beautiful packaging that you can use right away.
Preparing to take cash? Make sure you have plenty of change and a way to get more if you run out. There's nothing worse than turning down a sale because you don't have enough quarters!
Having a truck, trailer, or van is always a great option for carrying your furniture and gear. You could ask around if someone could lend you or give you a ride, or look at renting for the duration of the event. A wagon or cart is also helpful.
@ashleysmacrame I’m telling you… it’s been life changing! #craftfairs #vendortips #craftfairdisplay #craftfairsetup #craftfairprep #marketvendors #marketdays #marketprep #markettips #craftfairvendor #craftfairsetup #craftfairbooth ♬ Skate - Trees and Lucy
You can power your booth with electricity, whether it's from an outlet in the event space, a battery pack, or a portable power station like Jackery. You can hang lights, charge your or payment processor, or connect a fan or heater for temperature control.
Make sure that the boxes and equipment you plan to store out of sight will fit under your tables or behind other items in your booth. Keeping these fully hidden will create a cleaner look for your booth.
Choose table covers that fit into your color scheme and brand design. You can also hang vinyl signs from tables to add more signage. Just make sure the text on the front part is readable from far away.
Don't place products flat on a table. Use vertical stands and other display items so each item can be seen from far away.
You must attract people to your booth if you want them to come closer. So place your most interesting, colorful, or attractive items at the very front of your booth to draw people in.
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Make a plan for how customers will enter and walk through your booth. Where will they come from? What will they see first? How will they go through the experience from start to finish? Organize your booth accordingly.
Everything in your booth can be branded or fit into your brand theme. When all the little details are consistent, and everything plays into your overall branded experience, people get so much more enjoyment from your shop and feel more trust in your business overall.
When did you start your business, and why? How did you get to where you are today? Create a little video or a printed page outlining your brand story. People love reading stories, and they build interest in your business and products. You can print out a poster with your story or a QR code that leads to a brand story video or landing page.
Tables are great, easy to set up, and an affordable option. But you can go beyond tables! Things like pegboards, shelves, vertical racks, side tables, lecterns, and other tall furniture create visual interest and make products more visible than a low, flat table.
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Some crafters raise their tables with 6" risers to 36" high, which is said to be a more comfortable viewing height.
If you're opening your booth to customers, a nice rug that's slightly smaller than your booth space can tie in the decor and make it more inviting.
Vinyl banners are a more affordable way to add signage to your booth. You can design and order them and then hang them from your booth drapes. Or consider a pop-up display from a vendor like Easy Signs or table-top banners like this one from BannerBuzz.
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Bring flyers, business cards, or other branded trinkets that you can hand out to customers. You could even print out referral cards that they can give to friends to get a discount. Things like chapstick, keychains, magnets, bottle openers, and hand sanitizers are popular.
Are you running an outdoor booth? Consider how late the show will run and if you need some lights for the end of the day. Portable wireless lights like camping lanterns work great, and they can be hung.
Your own clothing can help you stand out and fit in with your branding. Choose something comfortable, of course, but think about how you can wear your brand colors or something that will play nicely with the look of your booth. Add on some branded shirts, hats, or gear that can advertise your shop wherever you go.
Whatever you choose to wear, make sure your shoes are comfortable, as you'll be on your feet most of the time.
Don't sit and wait for people to come to you. Stand up and greet people as they come close to your booth. Go out and engage with people, and they will be more likely to come to you.
Offer samples, let people touch and feel your products, and let them know about offers and show specials you currently have running. Give them a little taste of what you offer and they'll have more of a reason to stop and check out your wares.
Host a spin-the-wheel game, bingo, or lottery draw for people to get deals on your products or fun gifts! Here's a chalkboard prize wheel you can try from Amazon (affiliate link).
Keep your booth items in durable and stackable bins that won't break after lots of use (like this one from Home Depot). And try a foldable flat bed cart for transporting them (affiliate link).
How do you feel about your craft booth setup now? We hope you're feeling inspired and ready to crush your next craft fair with the ultimate booth setup!
Have more questions? Share them with us in our MakerFlo Official Facebook Community and get answers from us and many other crafters just like you!
Here are six ideas to try: 1) Arrange your booth to have your most eye- catching and attractive products right up at the front. 2) Use vertical displays to make your products visible from far away. 3) Use signage to show people what you sell. 4) Make sure you're standing at your booth with a big smile, greeting people. 5) Have product samples, flyers, or a game they can play for the chance to win a freebie. 6) Host a make-and-take or interactive crafting experience using your items.
First of all, brand your booth with a color scheme and look and feel. Don't let your branding distract from the products, but create a cohesive background. Keep your products up high with vertical displays so they are visible from far away. And use table covers and signage printed with your name and what you sell. Finally, standing at the front of your booth with a big smile will do more to attract people than any kind of branding and design.
If you have a simple pricing scheme, you can print out pricing posters and display them around your booth so people can quickly figure out prices. If each item is unique, you can create little price tags on each item or little display cards to show the price, but this will take more time to set up.
A common goal people set is to sell 10x more than the booth fee. But for your first fair, you might just want to focus on doing your best and seeing what you can sell rather than having a strict goal. Whatever happens, take it as a learning experience and enjoy every moment! You will figure it out over time.
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