How to Choose the Right Banner Finishing for Your Needs

Written By: Signs.com | Article Date:October 3, 2025

When planning a banner promotion, the first things businesses look for are great designs and layouts that will present the brand creatively. Next comes the right banner type that will stay up and promote their sales and message.

Now, part of this process also involves finding the best finishing details that protect the banner's appearance and sturdiness. Hems, grommets, or pole pockets not only add polish but also keep your banner secure and looking sharp.

This guide breaks down the banner finishings offered to you, so you can choose the proper setup to boost visibility and give your promotion a professional, lasting impression.

Banner Finishing Options

Grommets

Grommets are metal rings placed in the corners or edges of banners. They allow you to hang banners using ropes, hooks, or zip ties without damaging the material. Perfect for outdoor use, event banners, or any other area requiring strong support.

Pole Pockets

Pole pockets are the sewn sleeves on banner edges that allow for the sliding of poles or rods. They provide a clean, seamless look for stage backdrops, trade shows, or displays that require a polished finish.

Hemming

Hemming folds and stitches banner edges for stronger borders. Sometimes, small rods are added to reinforce the fold. This prevents fraying and provides lasting durability, making it perfect for long-term vinyl banner use.

To help you quickly compare each finishing option, here’s a simple chart showing their best uses and display tips.

Finish	Grommets	Pole Pockets	Hemming
Usage	These metal rings reinforce banner holes for hanging with ropes securely.	Sewn sleeves at the banner’s side edges, allowing poles or rods to slide smoothly inside.	Folded and stitched edges that strengthen the banner’s edges to prevent fraying.
Common Banner Types Used	These are perfect for standard vinyl banners displayed outdoors. They are typically used on banners intended for advertising or as event decoration.	They are often used for stage backdrops and large trade show display banners. They can also be used for outdoor events.	Almost all vinyl banners benefit from reinforced hemming.
Best Display Tips	Use the grommets to hang banners securely to fences, walls, stands, or sturdy posts.	Once the banner is mounted on frames or poles, secured their bases with strong supports or ground stakes for outdoor use.	You can combine this with other finishings for long-lasting professional durability.

4 Factors to Consider When Choosing the Optimal Banner Finish

Several factors are considered when selecting the ideal banner finish. Professionals often consider where they'll display their banner, how long it will stay up, and other elements that might take place during the promotion. Of course, they also look into the visual improvements these finishings will provide.

Here are some tips to think about before going for the finishing:

Check the banner size and weight to ensure proper support.

Large or heavy banners need sturdy finishing. Reinforced edges or multiple grommets prevent sagging or tearing, ensuring the banner remains stable and easy to hang.

Check the installation location.

Ensure that your banner is not exposed to changing weather conditions, or that it can handle intense wind, rain, or sun. Reinforced grommets help prevent banner damage, while the pole pockets keep the banner in place provided that the poles are securely planted in the ground.

Determine whether the banners are displayed in the short term or long term.

Short-term events may only require simple finishing, but long-term installations require stronger support. Banner hemming with steel rods ensures the brand's professional look remains consistent over time.

Consider the banner design and whether the finishing style can enhance its presentation.

Choose a finishing that matches the banner's layout. Pole pockets create a sleek, frameless look, while grommets work well without distracting from the design.

The best banner finishing ties your entire design together, adding durability and style. Grommets, hemming, and pole pockets keep your banners secure, improving their installation and use. Each option offers unique benefits that help your banner stand out and last longer.

Take time to match the finish to your banner’s size, location, and purpose for the best results. When your design is ready, visit Signs.com to turn your ideas into a professional-quality banner that grabs attention, and add the necessary banner finishes to ensure they stay durable from start to finish.