Roll-ups and Forex panels: how to choose (well) and print without errors in Rome
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Roll-ups and Forex panels: how to choose (well) and print without errors in Rome
When you need to stand out at an event, in a store, or during a presentation, the choice often comes down to two visual communication classics: roll-ups and Forex panels . They seem simple, but the difference between a "so-so" job and a professional result lies in a few details: the right format, suitable material, and a properly prepared file .
Here's a practical, no-nonsense guide to choosing and printing cleanly—and arriving ready, without last-minute rushes.
Roll-up or Forex: Which is the right choice?
Choose the roll-up if:
You need a portable and quick-to-assemble solution (30 seconds, literally)
you will use it several times (fairs, conferences, presentations)
Do you want an “all in one” support with structure + printing already integrated?
👉 Perfect for: trade shows, events, hotels, conference rooms, in-store promotions.
Choose Forex if:
you want something rigid , stable and “on display”
you have to fix it to the wall, on an easel, on a stand, on an internal display case
you need a more “solid” and orderly impact (especially in professional environments)
👉 Perfect for: information panels, exhibitions, internal signage, signage, installations.
The most used formats (the ones that really work)
Roll-up
85x200 cm : the most requested (balanced and legible)
100x200 cm : more visibility, excellent for stands and points of sale
Forex
A2 / A1 / A0 : when you start from a “graphic/editorial” layout
50×70 / 70×100 cm : widely used for promotions and communication
made to measure : ideal if you need to fill a specific space
Old-school copy shop advice: a well-designed standard format is better than a giant one full of tiny text. Readability always wins.
Graphics that can be read from afar: 5 simple rules
A short, main sentence (maximum 7–9 words).
A large (not “medium”) title : it should be read from 2–3 meters away.
Few elements , but good ones: logo, claim, contact, QR code (if needed).
High contrast : light text on a dark background or vice versa.
A call to action : “Book”, “Discover”, “Contact us”, “Discount…”.
Checklist file (the part that really saves you)
To avoid surprises, prepare as follows:
Format and abundance
set the file to the final size
add 3–5 mm abundance (especially for Forex and cutting)
Resolution and images
images at 150–300 dpi at print size
avoid screenshots and images “saved from WhatsApp” if they need to be large
Colors
if you can, work in CMYK
Avoid “dirty” blacks for small texts: clean solid black is better
Fonts and PDFs
export to PDF
Embed fonts or convert to paths (if it's a graphics file)
Safety margins
Leave a 2–3 cm margin inside: on a roll-up this is essential to avoid cutting off important elements.
Typical mistakes to avoid (the ones we see most often)
texts that are too small "because they get so close" (spoiler: they don't)
grainy logos
Microscopic or low-contrast QR codes
Forex panel without holes/brackets (then you improvise with the tape...)
Ordering without complications: the fastest method
If you already have a ready-made graphic, the best thing to do is send:
PDF + required format
intended use (indoor/outdoor, event/shop)
quantity and times
And have it confirmed in chat:
file correctness
recommended material
production/collection times
It's the simplest way to do things "properly", without unnecessary steps.
FAQ
Which is better for a trade show? Roll-up or Forex? Roll-up if you need to set up and take down frequently and travel light. Forex if you want a more rigid, booth-like setup.
What resolution do you need for an 85×200 roll-up? Typically, 150 dpi is already optimal; 300 dpi is ideal if you have very detailed images (but they must be truly accurate, not interpolated).
Is bleed necessary on Forex? Yes, especially if the panel is trimmed: 3–5 mm prevents unwanted white edges.
If you want a clean, professional result, the rule is always the same: the right media choice + a well-made file . And when in doubt, it's better to ask beforehand than to reprint later.
