When planning an event—whether it’s a corporate gathering, market stall, sports competition, or trade exhibition—visual branding plays a critical role. Outdoor flags are one of the most effective tools for attracting attention and reinforcing your message. However, choosing the right type of flag, along with compatible bases and accessories, is essential to ensuring visibility, stability, and durability.
From Bow Banners to Rectangle and Teardrop Flags, this guide will walk you through selecting the ideal flag style and base configuration for your next event, making sure your brand is seen and remembered.
Step 1: Understanding Flag Styles
There are three popular outdoor flag styles used in Australia: Bow Banner Flags, Rectangle Banner Flags, and Teardrop Banner Flags. Each has a unique shape and is suitable for specific visual and spatial needs.
1. Bow Banner Flags – Curved for High Visibility
If you’re looking to create dynamic movement and an eye-catching curve, Bow Banners are a great choice. Their unique arched shape helps guide the viewer’s eye toward your message.
• Sizes Available: Extra Small to Jumbo
• Printing Options: Single-sided (mirror reverse) or Double-sided (block-out for correct display on both sides)
• Material: High-quality SignWeave™ fabric
• Poles: CE Certified epoxy fibreglass with stainless steel sleeve reinforcement
• Best Use: Outdoor festivals, store openings, sporting events
Bow Banners are lightweight and portable and come with tensioning systems that ensure a crisp display every time.
2. Rectangle Banner Flags – Bold and Structured
Rectangle flags offer maximum print space, making them ideal when you need to display large logos, detailed text, or promotional offers. Their clean lines provide a professional, structured appearance.
• Sizes Available: Small to Jumbo
• Printing Options: Single-sided or Double-sided
• Material: SignWeave™ fabric with full-colour dye-sublimation printing
• Poles: Fibreglass with double steel sleeve reinforcement for durability
• Best Use: Trade shows, storefronts, corporate branding displays
Rectangle banners remain upright even in windy conditions and offer a modern, sharp appearance.
3. Teardrop Banner Flags – Compact and Stylish
Designed to be attention-grabbing and easy to read, Teardrop Flags have a unique shape that prevents flapping. This makes them ideal for high-wind areas and situations where constant visibility is key.
• Sizes Available: Extra Small to Jumbo
• Printing Options: Single-sided or Double-sided
• Material: SignWeave™ with vivid dye-sublimation printing
• Poles: Reinforced fibreglass with a 2-year warranty
• Best Use: Car dealerships, sporting events, outdoor exhibitions
Teardrop Flags keep your graphics taut at all times and are easy to assemble and disassemble.
Step 2: Selecting the Right Base
The flag base is just as important as the flag itself. Your choice will depend on the surface, weather conditions, and portability requirements.
Here are the most common types of bases:
Ground Spike
• Best For: Soft surfaces like grass, sand, or soil
• Features: Strong penetration into the ground, wind-resistant
• Includes: Heavy-duty ball-bearing spindle for 360° flag movement
Ground spikes are ideal for festivals, beach events, or rural settings where there’s no need for artificial anchoring.
Cross Base with Water Bag
• Best For: Hard surfaces like concrete or tiles
• Features: Stable X-shaped base, water bag for added weight
• Mobility: Easy to move and suitable for indoor/outdoor use
Use this for markets, trade expos, or shopping centre activations.
U-Shaped Car Tyre Base
• Best For: Car yards or events where you can drive a vehicle over the base
• Features: Simple setup, very secure
• Bonus: No need to carry heavy base weights
Perfect for automotive promotions and roadside events.
Wall Bracket
• Best For: Permanent installation
• Features: Mountable to flat vertical surfaces
• Ideal Use: Outside shops, entrances, or along buildings
This bracket keeps the flag fixed in one location, ideal for long-term advertising.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Accessories
Beyond the flag and base, several accessories enhance usability and longevity:
Carry Bags
• Protects your flag and pole during transport
• Available for all flag types
• Makes setup and pack-up quicker and more organised
Replacement Poles
• If your pole gets damaged or worn, replace it without buying a whole new set
• Made for Australian conditions, with CE Certification
• Reinforced sleeve sections for added strength
Design Assistance
• Don’t have ready artwork? Use an online design tool to customise your flag
• Many suppliers offer templates or in-browser editing platforms
• For bulk orders, ask for a custom quote
Step 4: Match Flag Style to Event Type
| Event Type | Recommended Flag | Suggested Base |
| Outdoor Festival | Teardrop or Bow Banner | Ground Spike or Water Base |
| Car Dealership Promotion | Rectangle or Teardrop | U-Shaped Tyre Base |
| Shopping Centre Display | Rectangle Banner | Cross Base with Water Bag |
| Beach or Sporting Event | Bow Banner | Ground Spike |
| Trade Exhibition | Rectangle or Bow Banner | Cross Base or Wall Bracket |
Matching the flag to the event type ensures your branding is not only seen but also stable and professional-looking.
Final Tips for Getting It Right
• Order in Advance: Although some companies offer 24-hour dispatch, it’s best to allow a few days for proofing and revisions.
• Consider Double-Sided Printing: If your flag will be seen from both directions, double-sided flags ensure clarity from all angles.
• Invest in Quality: Australian-made materials like SignWeave™ and CE-certified poles ensure your investment lasts through multiple events.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of outdoor flag, base, and accessories is essential for a successful event. Whether you opt for a Bow Banner to catch the wind, a Rectangle Flag for maximum visibility, or a Teardrop Banner for its sleek design, make sure your setup suits your environment and audience.
With premium materials, smart design, and the right support system underneath, your flags won’t just stand—they’ll stand out.
Explore options like those from Clover Displays, who offer fast production, online design tools, and a full range of compatible accessories to bring your display vision to life.
