How To Set Up Artwork for SEG Graphics

When setting up files to be printed on SEG fabric for use with SEG frames and lightboxes, there are a few things to keep in mind. SEG, short for Silicone Edge Graphics, is printed fabric signage with a thin silicone beading sewn around the edges that fits into edgeless framing. The silicone beading fits into a recessed groove around the perimeter of the frame to stretch the fabric completely smooth.

Here we’ll explain the settings and calculations needed to be confident your file is set up correctly to fly through prepress checks and result in a final print that looks exactly as intended.

SEG Graphics that Fit Perfectly

Artwork set up for SEG graphics is different than any other material we offer for two reasons.

The first reason is the silicone beading sewn around the perimeter that allows the fabric to be displayed in an SEG frame or light box. Extra material is needed to tuck into the approximately half inch deep frame channel. Therefore, the print needs to be larger than the frame.

The second reason is that SEG fabric is stretchy, and needs to stretch across the frame or light box tightly to create a smooth drum tight display. For this reason, it is important to keep all images and text within the bleed and safe area. The safe area is the portion of the image that will be guaranteed to print correctly, without any distortion or stretching.

By using the calculation and prepress checklist below you can set up your file to the exact size needed to include the extra fabric needed, and account for the stretch needed to fit perfectly within the frame.

Simplified Set Up for SEG Graphics

Is math not your favorite subject? No worries, you don’t have to provide artwork files at the exact cut size. We have a simplified option. When setting up your artboard add 1 inch to the frame size to make sure there is enough fabric to tuck down into the half inch frame channel. Once the file is received our prepress team will run the numbers and crop slightly to the precise dimensions for the perfect fit in any size SEG frame or light box.

Preparing Artwork for SEG Graphics Checklist

Now that you know how to calculate the cut size of the fabric the usual considerations need to be taken for setting up artwork for SEG fabric print use. Follow the checklist below to ensure you file is set up correctly for print.

More information on how to best set up files for printing can be found on our FAQ page. For more explanation of the terms above see the Print Lingo Definitions section further down the page.

Why is Calculating the Cut Size Important?

A precise balance of tension is needed for SEG fabrics look their best while being easy to install. To strike this balance every time, no matter the frame size, we use a cut size equation.

What Happens If SEG Fabric Prints Are Too Large?

If SEG fabric graphics are produced too large they will be loose. The graphic will sag and appear baggy and billowy. If touched or pick up nearby vibrations the fabric will undulate in a wobbly wave like motion across the graphic. Wrinkles and creases will also show if a print is not sized correctly as there is not enough tension to smooth them out. Not the ideal sleek smooth look SEG displays are known for.

What Happens If SEG Graphics Are Too Small?

If pulled too tight the fabric print will look strained and skewed especially around the perimeter. A fabric that is too tight is also very difficult to stretch across the frame and press the silicone edge beading down into the frame.

How Does the SEG Fabric Cut Size Formula Work?

Curious about how did we arrive at the numbers in the cut size formula? To get the perfect fit several factors are taken into account. Mainly the stretch of the material, the size of the silicone edge beading, and the position the beading is sewn on the fabric.

The first number added to the frame size, 0.75″, takes into consideration the extra material needed to reach down into the frame channel. The frame channel depth is a 0.5″, so naturally you would think 1 inch total would need to be added, not 0.75″. This would be true if the fabric reached all the way down in to the channel. However, the silicone beading added along the edge of the fabric and sticks out slightly past the fabric for the exposed silicone to grab against the metal and stay in the frame channel. Subtracting the area the beading adds results in an extra 0.375″ of fabric on each side, 0.75″ total, added to the frame size.

The second part of the equation is to multiply the fabric size by 0.9975″. This takes into account the amount of stretch in the fabric material. This multiplier allows the stretch to be adjusted exponentially depending on the size of the print.

*Please note this formula will not work for all fabric materials or vendors as all fabrics have a unique amount of stretch, reaction to printer heat settings, and inks.

The key to successful graphic printing is knowing how much fabric material needed for the size of your frame. Luckily, it’s easy with our formula that takes into account the stretch and extra area needed to attach silicone beading on the edge of the fabric. By using this formula and following our prepress checklist you can be sure all artwork files are set up correctly before submitting them for print. The end result? A perfect fitting SEG graphic!