Show Creations Ltd

The Table Top

1. Purchase black remnant fabric from a fabric store to use on your table top (2 pieces at 10 ft. lengths for each table).
2. Use the strong storage boxes you used to bring your product to the show as risers.
3. Use 1 length of black fabric to cover table top. Place boxes on tables (strongest side up). Be sure to place them in visually balanced locations on table top. Place the 2nd length of fabric over the table to cover the boxes. If you wanted to build table stairs or other types of risers you can use the same concept to cover them.
4. Purchase an unpainted wooden floor shelving unit and a can of black spray paint from a department store.
5. Visit your local dollar store, they carry a large range of items that can easily be used as part of your table top display. Small frameless mirrors, easels, stainless steel baskets or pictures frames, are just a few of the ideas you could use.
6. Stock up on picture frames - Great for price lists, Item descriptions or history of the art.
7. Make sure you have lights. You want to illuminate your work, but don’t over do it with large bulky lights.

Getting Ready

1. Email everyone in your address book information about any upcoming shows you are participating in. Notify them of any discounts or specials you may be offering or include pictures of any new products you might have added to your product line.
2. Dress nicely. You represent your company, promoter and shopping centre. You are the spokesman for your product, look professional. Stay away from torn jeans, too tight tank tops or sandals. Wear nice jeans or slacks. A dress shirt instead of a T-shirt. Make sure your clothes are clean and presentable.
3. Bring unfinished work to the show. Customers enjoy watching how your items are created. It will generate questions about your work and have potential customers stay at your booth longer. A small crowd usually attracts a larger crowd.
4. Write up a Bio about yourself or the artist.
5. Keep Smiling!

In a 10 x 12 space you can fit four 8ft tables, but you don't always need to. Sometimes “Less is More”. Use the space you actually require to make your booth appealing.

Tables and Skirts can be rented through the promoter or privately through a rental company. It makes it easy for set up but can get expensive over time. You may want to consider either purchasing your own table or perhaps making it yourself. Most home building centres could show you how.

When tables are used as part of your display, proper table skirting is required by the Shopping Centre and possibly the show promoter. It is also an important part of your display visually.

Skirting does come in many different colours. Each promoter or shopping centre may have their preference, but black is the most professional looking. Use proper table skirts. Stay away from using regular fabric or tablecloths. It makes for an unprofessional and many times uncared for look.

Pleated skirts made with Banjo Cloth seem to wear the best and look the freshest.

You have to bring the customer to your booth in order to sell your items. That's why the look and presentation of your display is as important as the products or crafts you are selling. A proper display compliments your products and permits approaching customers to see immediately what you are showcasing. Keeping your display area uncluttered and organized allows customers to focus on what you are selling - your product.

Professional booths/displays can run into the thousand of dollars.  However, as your business grows you may want to consider this option in the future.  There are many companies who sell used display units at affordable pricing.  Keep in mind that you travel with your display.   Some units can be heavy and bulky to transport, therefore, look for portable units.

Search the web for display designers, read Home Decorating magazines, take a walk through your local Shopping Centre to see what the latest trends, colours and designs are.

Also take some time to visit consumer trade shows or community craft fairs. You might find some interesting ideas that you may want to incorporate into your own display.

Each Artisan, Crafter and Home Show Exhibitor has different display needs and requirements for their individual products or services. However, you can find basic ideas through many different media.

Material: The skirts are made from a flame-resistant fabric, "Banjo Cloth'.

Size: Each skirt is 21ft in length - enough to fit an 8ft table on all four sides.

Cost: Each skirt can be purchased from Show Creations for $125.00 plus GST.

Fabric Care For Your New Table Skirting

Cleaning: Machine wash in cold water, mild detergent, no bleach. Tumble dry, low heat. Expect 1% shrinkage on first wash only.

Dry Cleaning: Perchlorethylene solvent only.

The Flame Retardant Process used will NOT be removed by washing.