Shell scheme graphics are an effective way to transform a standard exhibition shell scheme into a fully branded display. We offer a range of printed graphic solutions, from simple individual panels that fit between the aluminium uprights through to seamless and continuous wall graphics that conceal the shell scheme framework for a more premium finish.
Choosing the right shell scheme graphics depends on the type of stand being supplied, the finished appearance you want to achieve and how you intend to transport and reuse your graphics.
We offer solutions ranging from economical individual printed panels through to seamless and continuous wall graphics that conceal the aluminium framework. Shell scheme systems and panel sizes vary between exhibition organisers and contractors, so if you're unsure what you need, send us your stand specification and our experienced team can help identify the correct graphic solution.
There are two main approaches to covering an exhibition shell scheme. Individual graphics can be fitted between the aluminium uprights, or a continuous graphic system can be positioned in front of the framework to create a more seamless branded wall.
Both approaches can produce an effective exhibition display, but they differ considerably in appearance, cost, transportation and the way the artwork is designed.
Simple & Cost Effective
Individual Printed Shell Scheme Panels
Individual printed shell scheme panels are one of the simplest and most economical ways to add branding and imagery to the walls of an exhibition stand.
Each graphic is produced to fit the visible wall section between the vertical aluminium uprights. Depending on the product selected, the graphics can be produced using rollable, rigid or fabric-based materials.
Because the graphics sit between the uprights, the shell scheme framework remains visible. Artwork can still flow from one panel to another, although the vertical posts will interrupt the design.
Economical way to cover shell scheme walls
Simple to install and remove
Choice of graphic materials
Suitable where visible aluminium posts are acceptable
Premium Finish
Seamless & Continuous Shell Scheme Graphics
For a cleaner, more premium appearance, seamless shell scheme graphics conceal the aluminium uprights so artwork can flow continuously across the wall without visible breaks between individual panels.
Continuous graphics are particularly effective for large photographic backgrounds, oversized branding and artwork where interruptions from the shell scheme framework would detract from the overall appearance.
Our preferred solution for this type of display is ShellTex™ Seamless Shell Scheme Graphics, which uses lightweight printed textile graphics to cover complete exhibition walls.
ShellTex™ transforms a standard exhibition shell scheme into a clean, continuous branded display by positioning a textile graphic in front of the framework rather than fitting separate graphics between each upright.
The aluminium posts and wall panels are concealed behind the graphic, allowing photography, branding and messaging to flow naturally across an entire exhibition wall. The printed textile is lightweight, reusable and folds down to a compact size for transportation and storage.
Shell scheme systems vary between organisers and contractors, so every ShellTex™ order includes a compatibility check before production. Simply provide the technical information supplied for your stand and we can review it before your graphics are manufactured.
An exhibition shell scheme is a modular stand supplied by an exhibition organiser or stand contractor. It gives exhibitors a ready-made structure that can then be customised with printed graphics, display equipment and other branding.
Most shell schemes consist of vertical aluminium posts connected by horizontal beams, with plain wall panels positioned between the uprights. Depending on the stand position, the structure may include a back wall, one or two side walls and a fascia across the front.
Common stand footprints include sizes such as 3m × 2m, 3m × 3m and 4m × 3m. However, the dimensions of the individual wall sections and the type of aluminium framework can vary considerably between exhibition contractors.
Shell Scheme Construction
How Are Shell Schemes Constructed?
Although many different shell scheme systems are used at exhibitions, most follow a similar basic method of construction. Understanding the main components is useful when planning the dimensions and fitting method for your graphics.
Understanding the Framework
A typical shell scheme consists of vertical posts, horizontal beams and infill panels. A fascia may also be positioned across the front of the stand and is often branded by the exhibition contractor with the exhibitor's name and stand number.
Individual Shell Scheme Graphics
When using individual shell scheme graphics, the infill panels form the printable wall area. The graphics fit between the vertical aluminium uprights, so the framework remains visible between each printed panel.
Seamless Shell Scheme Graphics
Seamless systems such as ShellTex™ position the printed graphic in front of the framework, allowing the posts and wall panels to be concealed behind one continuous design.
Check the Specification for Your Stand
Your exhibition organiser or stand contractor should be able to provide technical information showing the number of wall sections, their dimensions and the shell scheme system being supplied. This information helps us establish which graphic options will fit correctly.
Getting the Size Right
Shell Scheme Graphic Sizes & Specifications
There is no single standard size for every shell scheme graphic.
Many commonly used shell schemes have wall sections around 950mm wide and approximately 2340mm high, but these dimensions should never be assumed to apply to your particular exhibition stand.
Panel dimensions, post widths and frame profiles can vary depending on the shell scheme manufacturer, exhibition contractor and configuration of the stand.
Before ordering graphics, ask your exhibition organiser or stand contractor for a shell scheme specification sheet. This normally shows the stand dimensions, individual wall panel sizes and technical information about the aluminium framework.
The profile of the aluminium framework is particularly important for continuous shell scheme graphic systems because the fitting method can depend on the shape and dimensions of the posts.
Example Shell Scheme Specification
The specification sheet shown below is a typical example of the technical information that an exhibition organiser or stand contractor may provide. This particular example relates to an Octanorm-type shell scheme, one of the most commonly used styles of exhibition shell scheme.
Specifications can vary between contractors, venues and shell scheme systems, so the dimensions shown here should not be used to size your graphics unless they match the specification supplied for your own stand.
When planning shell scheme graphics, this is the type of information we are looking for from your organiser or contractor — including wall panel dimensions, post widths, overall stand dimensions and, where available, the profile of the aluminium framework.
Example only: dimensions and framework profiles vary between shell scheme systems and exhibition contractors.
Send Us Your Shell Scheme Specification
If the technical information supplied by your organiser is difficult to interpret, send it to us. We have extensive experience producing shell scheme graphics for commonly used exhibition systems and can help identify the correct panel dimensions and suitable graphic options before production.
Artwork Planning
Planning Artwork for Shell Scheme Graphics
How your artwork should be designed depends largely on whether you are using individual graphic panels or a seamless system that covers the framework.
Individual Panels
Each graphic fits between the shell scheme uprights, so the aluminium framework remains visible between the printed sections.
Artwork Across Panels
Images and designs can flow from one panel to another, but allowance should be made for the visible interruption created by each vertical post.
Continuous Graphics
With ShellTex™ and other seamless systems, artwork can flow across an entire wall because the printed graphic sits in front of the framework.
Keep Important Content Away from Panel Breaks
On traditional individual shell scheme graphics, the vertical posts are commonly around 40–45mm wide, although dimensions vary between systems. Important logos, small text and other key design elements should therefore be positioned so they are not unintentionally divided by the framework.
If you want photography, oversized branding or other artwork to flow uninterrupted across a complete exhibition wall, a
ShellTex™ seamless shell scheme graphic
is usually the cleaner solution.
Free Planning Help
Not Sure Which Shell Scheme Graphics You Need?
Shell scheme specifications can sometimes be confusing, particularly because different exhibition organisers and contractors use different stand systems.
We have been producing exhibition graphics for more than two decades and are familiar with many of the shell scheme systems commonly used at UK exhibitions.
If you're unsure about the panel dimensions, the type of shell scheme being provided or which graphic solution is most suitable, send us the technical specification supplied by your organiser. We can review the information and help you identify an appropriate solution before production.
If you're considering seamless graphics, our ShellTex™ compatibility form allows you to send us the information required to check whether the system is suitable for your particular stand.
Answers to some of the most common questions about choosing, sizing and ordering graphics for exhibition shell schemes.
What size are shell scheme graphics?
There is no universal shell scheme graphic size. Many commonly used systems have wall panels around 950mm wide and approximately 2340mm high, but dimensions vary between manufacturers and exhibition contractors. Always check the specification for your particular stand before ordering.
How do shell scheme graphics attach to the stand?
Individual graphics are commonly attached to the existing wall panels using a suitable fixing method such as hook-and-loop tape. Continuous systems use specialist fittings or supports that position the graphic in front of the shell scheme framework.
Can shell scheme graphics hide the aluminium posts?
Yes. Individual panels normally sit between the posts, leaving the framework visible. Seamless and continuous systems such as ShellTex™ position the graphic in front of the framework so the aluminium uprights are concealed.
Can artwork run across several shell scheme panels?
Yes. Artwork can flow across several individual panels, but the image will be interrupted by the vertical aluminium posts between them. If completely uninterrupted artwork is required, a continuous shell scheme graphic system is normally more suitable.
What information do you need before producing shell scheme graphics?
Ideally, provide the shell scheme specification supplied by your exhibition organiser or contractor. This should show the stand layout, wall dimensions, panel sizes and often technical information about the aluminium framework.
Can shell scheme graphics be reused?
In many cases, yes. Reuse depends on the graphic material, the fitting system and whether the shell scheme used at a future event has compatible dimensions and construction.
What if I don't know which shell scheme system I have?
Ask your exhibition organiser or stand contractor for the technical specification and send it to us. We can review the information and help identify a suitable graphic solution.
Need Help Planning Your Shell Scheme Graphics?
Send us the specification for your exhibition stand and we'll help you establish the correct graphic sizes and the most suitable way to cover your shell scheme.
