Transform ordinary exhibition shell scheme walls into one continuous branded exhibition backdrop.
ShellTex™ is Printdesigns' purpose-designed fabric graphics system that fits directly onto compatible existing exhibition shell scheme frameworks.
Unlike traditional rigid graphics fitted individually between aluminium posts, ShellTex allows artwork to flow continuously across the exhibition wall, concealing the vertical uprights and producing a professional, seamless appearance.
Lightweight printed fabric, factory-fitted aluminium fixing rails and specially developed mounting adapters combine to create a portable exhibition graphics system that's straightforward to install, transport, store and reuse.
Why Choose ShellTex™ Instead of Traditional Shell Scheme Graphics?
Traditional exhibition shell scheme graphics are often manufactured as individual rigid panels, usually printed onto Foamex or similar display materials.
These panels are fitted inside each bay of the shell scheme, leaving the aluminium framework visible between the printed sections.
The Problem With Traditional Shell Scheme Graphics
Standard exhibition shell schemes consist of upright aluminium posts, horizontal beams and infill panels.
Traditional graphics normally fit between these posts, creating visible divisions that interrupt the printed design.
Rigid panels can also be bulky to transport, awkward to store and vulnerable to chipping, cracking or other damage during handling.
Traditional individual graphics leave the vertical framework visible.
The ShellTex™ Solution
ShellTex works differently. The printed fabric sits in front of the vertical shell scheme posts, allowing artwork to flow continuously across the exhibition wall.
The result is a cleaner, more professional exhibition backdrop that's easier to transport and store than multiple rigid panels.
Seamless Visual Impact
Artwork flows across the exhibition wall without interruption from vertical shell scheme posts.
Lightweight & Portable
Fabric graphics can be concertina-folded and rolled into compact transport packaging.
Quick Installation
Purpose-designed mounting clips attach directly to the existing shell scheme framework.
Designed for Reuse
Graphics can be stored and reused at future exhibitions on compatible stands.
Factory-Fitted Rails
Aluminium fixing rails are already attached to the printed fabric before dispatch.
No Separate Framework
ShellTex uses your existing exhibition shell scheme instead of requiring an additional display frame.
How Does ShellTex™ Work?
ShellTex is supplied as a complete printed fabric graphic with slim aluminium rail sections factory-fitted to the top and bottom edges.
Each aluminium rail section is approximately 930mm long, separated by small gaps. This allows the completed graphic to concertina-fold for transportation without removing the rails.
80mm Long-Reach Top Mounting Adapters
Our specially designed grey moulded mounting adapters slide into the upper aluminium fixing rails and hook over the top horizontal beam of the shell scheme.
The standard adapters position the fabric approximately 80mm below the top of the framework.
This means the graphics sit beneath the upper horizontal beam rather than covering it, helping prevent interference with ceiling supports and overhead framework.
The clips can also be moved along the aluminium rails to suit the available hanging positions.
ShellTex top adapter hooked over the upper shell scheme beam.
Close-up of the top mounting system.
Simple, Adjustable Hanging System
The fixing clips can be positioned along the aluminium rail sections, allowing the graphics to hang from suitable points on the shell scheme framework.
Once suspended, the complete graphic can be moved slightly left or right to centralise the design on the wall.
The aluminium rails remain factory-fitted throughout installation, removal and transportation.
Elasticated Bottom Tensioning
The lower aluminium rail sections incorporate small elasticated fixings with grey moulded plastic hooks.
These hook underneath the lower horizontal shell scheme beam, pulling the printed fabric downwards to apply vertical tension.
The elasticated system helps remove minor creases and provides a neat, tensioned finish.
Small horizontal adjustments to the bottom rails can also improve the alignment and appearance of the graphic.
Elasticated bottom tensioning system.
Purpose-Designed Fixing Components
Our mounting components have been developed specifically for ShellTex, providing a straightforward and reliable method of installing, adjusting and tensioning fabric graphics on compatible exhibition shell scheme frameworks.
Unlike generic exhibition fittings, these components are designed to work with the ShellTex aluminium rail system.
Bespoke Mounting Components Available
We can manufacture custom mounting components to accommodate unusual shell scheme configurations, including longer-reach adapters for deeper beams and specially developed fittings for less common framework profiles.
Where required, we can also manufacture fixing components in alternative colours to blend more discreetly with non-silver exhibition frameworks.
Bespoke fittings and alternative colours are available by special arrangement, subject to checking the relevant technical specifications.
Will ShellTex™ Fit a Shell Scheme With Ceiling Beams or a Ceiling Grid?
Many exhibition shell schemes incorporate additional overhead support beams or ceiling grids to provide stability to the stand. These structures may also be used to support exhibition lighting and other display accessories.
On some shell scheme systems, these supports connect into the tops of the vertical posts. This can create an obstruction for graphics designed to extend all the way to the top of the framework.
ShellTex™ has been specifically designed to overcome this problem. Our standard 80mm long-reach mounting adapters position the fabric graphics neatly beneath the upper horizontal shell scheme beams, which are typically around 70mm deep.
This means that, on compatible shell schemes, ceiling supports, diagonal braces and overhead grids can sit above the printed graphics without interrupting the seamless appearance of the exhibition wall.
The result is a clean, continuous branded backdrop that can be installed without the upper support structures interfering with the positioning or tensioning of the fabric.
Shell scheme with diagonal ceiling support in the corner.Shell scheme fitted with an overhead ceiling grid.
In both scenarios, our graphics are designed to sit directly beneath the upper horizontal framework, helping them clear overhead support structures on compatible shell schemes.
Deeper Beams? Bespoke Super-Long-Reach Adapters Available
Not every shell scheme uses conventional-sized upper horizontal beams. Some exhibition systems incorporate deeper beams which require additional clearance.
If your shell scheme has upper beams deeper than approximately 70mm, we may be able to manufacture bespoke longer-reach mounting adapters.
For example, we have previously manufactured 180mm long-reach adapters for customers whose shell scheme beams were 175mm deep.
These specially manufactured components allowed the graphics to sit beneath the deeper framework.
Simply provide us with your exhibition contractor's shell scheme specification sheet before ordering, and we can assess the construction, beam dimensions and fixing requirements.
Compatibility Checked Before Production
Although ShellTex is suitable for many aluminium and metal shell schemes, different exhibition contractors use different framework profiles, slot dimensions, heights and support arrangements.
For this reason, we always recommend checking your shell scheme's compatibility before placing an order.
Simply complete our ShellTex Compatibility Checklist and provide your exhibition stand plan and shell scheme specification sheet.
Our team will review the information and confirm whether our solution is suitable for your particular stand.
This compatibility assessment is all part of our service, helping you order with confidence and avoid unexpected installation issues when you arrive at your exhibition.
Individual Wall Graphics or Continuous Wraparound Displays
ShellTex can be manufactured as individual wall graphics or, for suitable exhibition layouts, as one continuous graphic extending around the corners of the stand.
Individual Wall Graphics
Each wall is manufactured as its own complete graphic, with factory-fitted aluminium rails.
This normally provides the greatest flexibility for future exhibitions, where different wall lengths or configurations may be required.
Continuous Wraparound Graphics
For suitable stand layouts, multiple walls can be manufactured as one continuous wraparound fabric graphic.
This creates an impressive integrated appearance around a corner, although it is generally best suited to customers reusing the same stand layout and dimensions.
Our team can advise on the most suitable wall configuration for your exhibition stand and intended future use.
Watch Our ShellTex™ Assembly & Installation Video
Our step-by-step video demonstrates how straightforward it is to install ShellTex graphics using our standard 80mm long-reach mounting adapters and elasticated bottom tensioning system.
We've also illustrated the complete installation process below in nine simple steps.
How to Install ShellTex™ Graphics – Nine Simple Steps
The aluminium rails are already factory-fitted to the printed graphic. These instructions explain how to add the mounting clips, suspend the graphic and tension the fabric.
1
Remove the Clips from Their Packaging
Carefully remove the supplied mounting clips from their protective storage carton, keeping the components organised ready for installation.
2
Slide the Top Fixings onto the Aluminium Rail
Insert the top mounting clips into the channel of each factory-fitted upper aluminium rail section.
3
Rotate the Top Rail 180 Degrees
Rotate the upper rail through 180 degrees so that the mounting clips point upwards, ready to hook onto the shell scheme.
4
Hook the Graphic onto the Shell Scheme
Lift the graphic and hook the upper mounting clips over the horizontal beam at the top of the shell scheme.
5
Continue Along the Exhibition Wall
Work along the wall, hooking each upper rail section into position until the complete graphic is suspended.
6
Centre the Graphic
Make any necessary adjustments by sliding the graphic left or right until it is correctly centred on the framework.
7
Attach the Elasticated Bottom Fixings
Insert two elasticated lower fixings into the channel of each bottom aluminium rail section.
8
Hook the Bottom Fixings Beneath the Shell Scheme
Pull the elasticated fixings down and hook the grey moulded ends underneath the lower shell scheme beam, applying vertical tension to the fabric.
9
Complete the Installation and Adjust the Tension
Continue attaching the lower fixings along the complete wall, then make any final adjustments to improve tension and remove minor creases.
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Installation Tip: One Person or Two?
ShellTex is designed for straightforward installation, but the size of your graphic can make a difference.
Walls up to approximately 4 metres:
Generally manageable by one person.
Walls longer than 4 metres:
We recommend two people to make installation easier.
For larger graphics, one person can support the remaining folded fabric and aluminium rails while the other hooks each section onto the framework.
As more sections are installed, the remaining graphic becomes lighter and easier to handle.
Lightweight, Compact and Easy to Transport
One of the great advantages of ShellTex is that the graphics are manufactured from flexible printed fabric rather than traditional rigid display boards.
Unlike rigid panels that can chip, crack, dent or snap during handling and transportation, ShellTex fabric graphics are durable, lightweight and much easier to pack and transport between exhibitions.
The aluminium fixing rails remain attached to the fabric. Because the individual rail sections are separated by small gaps, the entire graphic can be concertina-folded into approximately one-metre sections.
Once concertina-folded, the complete graphic can be rolled as one assembled unit, producing a compact bundle approximately one metre wide.
This makes even relatively large exhibition graphics considerably easier to transport and store than an equivalent collection of rigid boards.
Depending on the size and quantity of graphics, the folded and rolled assembly can be packed into protective cartons, reusable transport tubes or large storage drums.
Standard Protective Packaging
Finished ShellTex graphics are carefully bubble-wrapped and packed into suitable cartons for delivery.
The mounting clips are supplied separately inside their dedicated protective storage carton.
Designed for Repeat Use
With careful handling and storage, ShellTex graphics can be reused at future exhibitions where the shell scheme framework and dimensions are suitable.
We recommend checking compatibility again when changing exhibition venue or stand contractor.
Purpose-Designed Clip Storage Carton
Our moulded fixing adapters are supplied neatly organised inside a dedicated ShellTex storage carton.
Individual cut-out positions hold the components securely and help keep everything together during transportation and storage between exhibitions.
The aluminium hanging rails remain attached to the fabric graphic, so there's no need to assemble or refit them at the venue.
ShellTex adapter clips supplied in their protective storage carton.
Optional Reusable Storage & Transport Solutions
For customers attending multiple exhibitions, we can also supply reusable storage solutions designed to protect and organise their graphics.
Adjustable Hard Graphics Tube
Our adjustable hard graphics tubes provide a practical reusable transport and storage option for suitable ShellTex wall graphics up to approximately four metres long.
These offer additional protection when transporting or storing graphics between exhibitions.
For very large ShellTex walls or customers with multiple graphics, we can also supply substantial reusable storage drums.
These are available in approximately 300mm and 400mm diameters, with the appropriate size depending on the number and packed dimensions of the graphics.
Our 1020mm-long drums are particularly useful for accommodating compactly rolled ShellTex graphics.
Reusable Exhibition Graphics – A Practical Approach to Sustainability
ShellTex graphics are designed for repeated use rather than being treated as disposable exhibition signage.
Reusing a graphic at multiple exhibitions can reduce the need for replacement displays, while lightweight fabric takes up substantially less transport and storage space than a comparable collection of large rigid boards.
The aluminium fixing rails remain attached during packing, meaning the system can be retained and reused without repeatedly replacing the mounting hardware.
End-of-life recycling options depend on the printed material and locally available recycling facilities. Please contact our team for guidance on appropriate disposal arrangements.
What's Included With Your ShellTex™ Graphics?
Every ShellTex order is supplied as a complete printed graphics system, with the essential components prepared and packed ready for installation.
Printed Fabric Graphics
Professionally printed fabric graphics manufactured to your agreed exhibition wall dimensions.
Factory-Fitted Aluminium Rails
Slim aluminium fixing rail sections already attached to the upper and lower edges of the printed fabric.
80mm Long-Reach Top Adapters
Our standard purpose-designed mounting clips for hanging the graphic from compatible upper shell scheme beams.
Elasticated Bottom Fixings
Specially designed elasticated clips with moulded hooks to tension the fabric beneath the lower shell scheme beam.
Protective Graphic Packaging
The completed graphic is carefully protected with bubble wrap and packed into suitable cartons for transportation.
Dedicated Adapter Storage Carton
The mounting clips are supplied separately in their own purpose-designed protective storage box.
Compatibility Assessment Included
As part of our service, our team reviews the shell scheme information and technical specifications you provide before manufacturing your graphics. This helps us establish whether ShellTex is suitable for your particular exhibition stand.
Real ShellTex™ Customer Installations & Case Studies
ShellTex has been supplied to exhibitors across a wide range of industries, from engineering and manufacturing to healthcare, technology and specialist equipment.
BVC (British Vacuum Cleaners) – Five-Panel Seamless Back Wall
This installation shows ShellTex used across a five-panel exhibition shell scheme back wall.
The graphic spans the full width of the stand, creating a continuous branded backdrop without the breaks normally caused by individual shell scheme panels.
"We recently purchased a ShellTex fabric hook-on backdrop for our exhibition stand, spanning five shell scheme panels, and we were very impressed with the result. It looked fantastic, gave the stand a much more professional appearance, and really helped us stand out at the event.
One of the biggest advantages was how quick and easy it was to set up and take down, which saved us a huge amount of time during both installation and pack-down.
Scott was extremely helpful throughout the process and recommended this option based on our requirements. We're very glad we decided to go with the ShellTex exhibition system and would happily recommend it to others looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use exhibition backdrop solution."
Robert Warman
BVC (British Vacuum Cleaners)
Quirepace – 5.5m × 2m Corner Installation
Returning customer Quirepace selected ShellTex for a hospital logistics exhibition stand, combining a 5.5-metre back wall with a 2-metre return wall.
The graphics created a coordinated backdrop for the company's pneumatic tube systems and hospital equipment, complemented by matching Foamex graphics for the counter.
The back wall included a half-metre bay next to the corner, requiring us to check the framework position and tailor the aluminium rail arrangement accordingly.
"The stand looked great and everything worked out. Thanks again for all your help."
Robert Warman
Marketing & Business Development Manager Quirepace Ltd
Herbold Granulators UK – Complete Exhibition Installation
This installation incorporated ShellTex fabric graphics, exhibition lighting and display furniture to create a professional branded exhibition stand.
"As this was our first time designing a stand, the assistance Mark gave us was invaluable. The graphics looked great and were incredibly easy to install, as were the lights. Thank you for all your help, the speedy turnaround and the great communication. We will highly recommend you to anyone, especially given the eye-watering price GES wanted for the exact same thing."
Sarah
Herbold Granulators UK Ltd
Food & Beverage Exhibition – 4m × 2m Corner Stand
This installation featured a four-metre back wall and two-metre return wall.
The shell scheme incorporated overhead supports and a diagonal brace in the corner.
Long-reach mounting adapters allowed the fabric graphics to sit beneath the upper framework while maintaining a clean, tensioned finish.
Kurt J Lesker – International Exhibition Use
ShellTex is particularly useful for organisations attending international exhibitions, where compact transportation and straightforward installation are important.
"The backdrop has now been successfully transferred to Germany and has arrived in Paris. It fits the space perfectly and was straightforward to install."
Koey Tong
Marketing Coordinator Kurt J Lesker Company Ltd
ShellTex™ Compatibility Case Study – White Space XPO FabraMax
Project Summary: We successfully supplied ShellTex graphics for multiple exhibitors using the White Space XPO FabraMax shell scheme after independently investigating and testing compatibility with its framework.
During 2026 we were contacted by several independent exhibitors who had booked stands using the White Space XPO FabraMax shell scheme.
Each wanted to use ShellTex seamless fabric graphics, but before production could begin we needed to establish whether our mounting adapters were compatible with this relatively uncommon shell scheme profile.
Investigating the Framework
Our normal procedure with unfamiliar shell scheme systems is to request technical drawings and specifications from the exhibition contractor.
In this case, a detailed engineering drawing was unavailable, so we investigated compatibility ourselves using the specification sheet supplied to exhibitors.
The available information included overall dimensions but did not identify every slot and engagement dimension needed to confirm compatibility with third-party accessories.
White Space XPO FabraMax shell scheme specification supplied to exhibitors.
Recreating and Testing the Profile
Rather than simply making assumptions, we recreated the shell scheme profile from the specification drawing as a vector illustration and converted it into a three-dimensional model.
We then produced a physical sample using our in-house 3D printer, enabling us to test the ShellTex adapter clips before committing to production.
The testing was successful, with the adapters fitting securely onto the recreated framework.
Adjusting the Graphic Dimensions
We also identified that White Space XPO FabraMax uses a slightly different framework height from many conventional shell schemes.
The specified height was 2480mm, compared with the approximately 2500mm commonly encountered on other exhibition systems.
We adjusted the manufactured graphic dimensions to suit this difference and achieve the best possible fit.
Project Highlights
✓ Compatibility checked before manufacture
✓ Aluminium profile recreated using vector design and 3D modelling
✓ Physical test profile manufactured using 3D printing
✓ Mounting adapters tested against the recreated profile
✓ Graphic height adjusted for the 2480mm framework
Following the successful assessment, we proceeded with manufacturing ShellTex graphics for several customers using the FabraMax system.
"Just wanted to thank you again for help in getting our banner project sorted successfully.
I can confirm the brackets fit perfectly! Thought you'd like to know for any future business enquiries regarding these funky shell scheme designs."
This project demonstrates the approach we take when assessing unfamiliar shell scheme systems.
Rather than relying on assumptions, we investigate the framework, verify compatibility wherever possible and recommend a solution only when we're satisfied that it should perform as intended.
If your exhibition uses an unfamiliar shell scheme, send us the specifications and we will review them before manufacturing your graphics.
ShellTex™ Artwork Preparation & Ordering
Before preparing artwork, we recommend providing your exhibition stand plan and shell scheme technical specifications.
Our team can review the overall wall dimensions, upper beam depth, framework height, unusual bay widths and other relevant construction details.
Once compatibility has been checked, we can provide the appropriate artwork template for your stand.
The standard ShellTex system uses 80mm long-reach top mounting adapters, so artwork is prepared to finish beneath the upper horizontal beam.
When preparing your design, consider the position of counters, display furniture, machinery and other objects that could obscure important wording or logos.
For multi-wall installations, pay particular attention to the alignment of artwork around corners and the potential reuse of individual sections at future exhibitions.
Check Your Shell Scheme Compatibility Before Ordering
ShellTex is compatible with many aluminium and metal shell scheme systems, including numerous Octanorm-style frameworks.
However, because contractors use different profiles and construction methods, we always recommend checking compatibility before placing an order.
Complete our compatibility checklist and provide any available technical drawings or stand plans. Our team will review the information and advise on the appropriate solution.
Seamless shell scheme graphics are printed exhibition displays designed to conceal the vertical uprights of a conventional exhibition shell scheme, creating a continuous branded backdrop rather than separate panels.
Will ShellTex fit my exhibition stand?
ShellTex is compatible with many aluminium and metal shell scheme frameworks. We recommend providing your exhibition contractor's technical specification sheet so we can check compatibility before manufacture.
How do the 80mm long-reach top adapters work?
The adapters hook over the upper horizontal beam and suspend the graphic beneath it, helping the fabric clear overhead supports on compatible shell scheme systems.
What if my shell scheme has unusually deep upper beams?
We may be able to manufacture bespoke longer-reach adapters. We have previously produced 180mm adapters for shell schemes with 175mm-deep upper beams. Please supply the contractor's technical specifications for assessment.
Can the mounting clips be made in different colours?
Yes. We can manufacture bespoke fixing components in alternative colours by special arrangement to help them blend with frameworks that aren't finished in standard silver aluminium.
Do I need to attach the aluminium rails myself?
No. Aluminium rail sections are factory-fitted to the upper and lower edges of the printed fabric before dispatch.
How are ShellTex graphics tensioned?
Elasticated lower mounting clips hook underneath the bottom shell scheme beam, applying downward tension to help create a smooth finish.
Can one person install ShellTex graphics?
Wall graphics up to approximately four metres long are generally manageable by one person. For longer walls, we recommend two people so one can support the remaining folded graphic while the other hangs each section.
Can ShellTex graphics be reused?
Yes. ShellTex is designed for repeated use, provided the next exhibition stand has compatible framework and suitable dimensions.
How are ShellTex graphics packed?
The graphics concertina-fold at the gaps between the factory-fitted aluminium rails before being rolled into a compact bundle approximately one metre wide. They are then protected with bubble wrap and packed into suitable cartons.
Are reusable storage tubes available?
Yes. Adjustable hard graphics tubes are available for suitable ShellTex walls up to approximately four metres long, together with larger storage drums for very large or multiple wall graphics.
Can ShellTex be used with Octanorm shell schemes?
Yes. ShellTex has been supplied for many Octanorm-style systems, although we still recommend checking the exact framework specification before ordering.
What if my stand includes half-width bays?
Please identify the dimensions and positions of any half-width bays when supplying your stand plan. We can assess whether the rail arrangement or graphic dimensions need adjusting.
How do I order ShellTex graphics?
Start by completing our ShellTex Compatibility Checklist and providing your stand plan or technical specifications. Our team will review the information and advise on compatibility, artwork and fixing requirements.
Transform Your Next Exhibition Stand With ShellTex™
Whether you're preparing a small exhibition backdrop or a large multi-wall display, ShellTex provides a lightweight, reusable solution for creating seamless branded exhibition graphics.
Our team can help assess your shell scheme, confirm compatibility and advise on the appropriate artwork and mounting arrangements.
