Measuring, Sizes & Artwork — Café Barriers
This FAQ guide offers a practical breakdown of how to request accurate quotes for café barrier systems. It outlines the key specifications suppliers need such as panel dimensions, material types, fixing methods, and artwork formats, to deliver reliable pricing. The page also highlights common cost drivers like print complexity, flame-retardant requirements, and installation needs, helping businesses streamline procurement and avoid costly revisions. If you can't find the information you're looking for on this page, please visit our Cafe Barriers FAQs page for more details.
1. Measuring & Standard Sizes
Q: How do I measure for café barrier panels, step-by-step?
A: Measure the clear distance between posts. Always measure at 3 points and use the smallest width.
Q: What are common standard café barrier panel sizes?
A: Typical widths ~975mm, 1275mm, 1775mm. Heights ~780–900mm. Confirm with your system.
Q: What measurement details should I include in my quote request?
A: Provide final finished visible size (W × H), post spacing, post diameter, cross-rail type, pocket depth, number of panels, finishing edges, and site notes.
2. Tolerances, Material Behaviour & Allowances
Q: What cutting tolerances should I expect?
A: ±5 mm up to 2m, ±10 mm up to 4m, ±15 mm over 4m. Varies by material.
Q: Do fabrics stretch or shrink?
A: Some textiles relax or shrink. Allow for change. For high accuracy, request samples/templates.
3. Fixing Types & Printable Area
Q: How do pole pockets affect printable area?
A: Pocket depth reduces visible height. Typical 30–50 mm. Specify visible height and pocket depth.
Q: How does SEG affect artwork sizing?
A: SEG uses silicone cord. Visible area reduced. Request supplier template.
Q: How much space do eyelets and hems require?
A: Hems 20–30 mm. Eyelets every 300–500 mm. Keep design clear of edge zones.
4. Artwork Guidelines
Q: What artwork formats and resolution should I supply?
A: PDF/X-1a, TIFF, AI, EPS. 150–300 dpi. Fonts outlined, images embedded.
Q: What bleed and safe zone is required?
A: 5–10 mm bleed, 10–15 mm safe zone. Confirm with supplier if using pockets or SEG.
Q: Which colour space should I use?
A: CMYK. Add Pantone references if needed. Request proof for accuracy.
5. Seams, Joins & Modular Graphics
Q: How do I join multiple panels?
A: Overlap & stitch, zipper joins, welded seams. Ask about seamless fabric joins for murals.
Q: What tolerance issues occur for multi-panel graphics?
A: Expect small misalignments. Plan seam placement to avoid splitting key visuals.
6. Standard Finishing Dimensions
Pocket depth: 30–50 mm. Hem width: 20–30 mm. Eyelets: 300–500 mm spacing. SEG: 3–4 mm cord. Seams: 20–30 mm.
7. Branding & Personalisation
Q: Can I print different artwork on each panel?
A: Yes. Expect extra artwork checks. Request test print for colour consistency.
Q: Do you offer personalised panels for promotions?
A: Yes. Use modular panels for seasonal or site-specific branding.
8. Samples, Prototypes & Mockups
Q: Should I request a sample or mockup?
A: Yes, especially for high-value orders. Hard proofs cost more but ensure accuracy.
9. Practical Tips & Pitfalls
Q: What mistakes should I avoid?
A: Don’t give raw measurements, forget pockets, or put text near edges. Allow for tolerances.
Q: What should I tell my supplier?
A: Provide final W×H, post spacing/diameter, pocket depth, finishing type, artwork bleed/safe zone, and request a production template.
10. Copy/Paste Artwork & Size Template
Finished visible panel size: [W mm] × [H mm] — quantity: [#]
Material: [270g mesh / 440gsm PVC / 260gsm polyester]
Fixing: Pole pockets [mm], eyelets [mm], or SEG cord [3–4 mm]
Artwork: PDF/X-1a — CMYK — 150–300 dpi — 5 mm bleed — 15 mm safe zone
Tolerance: +/- [5/10/15 mm]. Request template before printing.