How to Set Up a File for Step and Repeat Banners

Smartpress Recommendations for Step and Repeat Banner Files

• Use InDesign for file setup and design.
• For vertical logos, each logo should be a minimum size of 8″ to 10″ high.
• For horizontal logos, each logo should be a minimum size of 8″ to 10″ wide.
• To use the Step and Repeat function in InDesign, use keyboard shortcut Option + Command + U or go to Edit > Step and Repeat.
• Use guides to determine where any hem or pole pocket stitching will be on the banner – this will create a safe zone to ensure logos don’t overlap the stitching.

Step 1: Prepare Your File in Adobe InDesign

Start a New Document in InDesign and add specifications. For online printing, the file should always be designed at the finished size.

Smartpress Tip: Set your margins based on hem stitching guides, 3″ on the top and bottom and 1″ on the sides, remembering the 1/4″ bleed. Here is an example of a 111″ x 95″ step and repeat banner.

Step 2: Add Your Vector Logo

Place the vector logo on the page. As part of our online printing services, we recommend vertical logos be a minimum of 8″ to 10″ high and horizontal logos be a minimum of 8″ to 10″ wide. This will enhance visibility from a distance.

Step 3: Use the Step and Repeat Function to Replicate Your Logo and Adjust Spacing

Select logo and navigate to Edit > Step and Repeat or use keyboard shortcut Option + Command + U. The Step and Repeat window will open for you to adjust rows, columns and spacing between each logo. To see the design in progress as you adjust the settings, check the Preview box under the cancel button.

Step 4: (Optional) Offset Your Vector Logos For Visual Effect

Before submitting your design to an online printer, you can enhance it by offsetting the logos. You can do this manually by selecting individual rows and shifting them left or right. Just select every other row and move it to the left or right to offset it as much as you’d like.

Smartpress Tip: You may need to add an extra column to account for any logos that run off the banner.

(Note: In the example below, the logos that ran off the banner have been deleted.)

If you adjust things too far, the align tools can help you get your logos back on track. To find them, go to Window > Object & Layout > Align.

Step 5: (Optional) Add Additional Unique Logos to the Pattern

If you would like multiple logos on your custom banner, go back to Step 2. Place the logos side-by-side with the desired space between each one. Group the logos (Command + G) and proceed to step out and space the logos.