When you think of signage or exhibition panels, the classic rectangle likely comes to mind — practical, simple, and easy to install. But today’s competitive visual landscape calls for more. What if your panel could break free from the box? Custom-shaped panels are an exciting trend, helping brands stand out and express creativity. Whether for a trade show, retail display, or shell scheme graphics, unique shapes can instantly capture attention and reflect brand personality. This blog explores how custom panels are made, why they’re effective, and how using creative shapes can elevate your next signage or display project.

The Popularity of Rectangles: Why They Became the Standard

Rectangular panels have been the industry standard for decades. There are a few simple reasons for this. First, rectangles are easy to produce. Sheets of material like Foamex or acrylic come in rectangular sizes, so it makes sense to work with them directly. Secondly, rectangles are simple to print, transport, and mount. They fit neatly on walls, in frames, or within shell scheme systems.

They also offer plenty of flexibility for design. Logos, text, and graphics sit comfortably within a rectangle, making it a safe and practical choice.

But design trends are changing, and more businesses are looking for something fresh. This is where custom-shaped panels come in.

Why Shape Matters in Design

The shape of your panel or display affects how people see and remember it. Different shapes send different messages.

• Circles feel soft and friendly.
• Triangles feel energetic and modern.
• Organic or abstract shapes feel bold, unique and creative.

When you move away from the basic rectangle, you immediately grab attention. People notice shapes that break the pattern. In a busy exhibition hall or retail space, that can be the difference between someone stopping or walking by.

Think of signage in a children’s play area, a trendy café, or a tech event. In these places, the look and feel of the design matter just as much as the message. A custom shape can help reflect a brand’s personality, whether it’s fun and playful or sleek and cutting-edge.

How Custom Shapes Are Made

Thanks to modern technology, creating custom shapes is easier than ever. Businesses can now produce detailed and accurate shapes using:

• CNC cutting – A computer-controlled machine cuts the panel material into almost any shape.
• Laser cutting – Provides high precision for more delicate designs.
• Router cutting – Ideal for thicker materials and strong finishes.

Common materials for shaped panels include Foamex, acrylic, Dibond and aluminium composite. These materials are strong, lightweight, and easy to cut. They also allow for full-colour printing, so your design can look exactly as you imagined.

Once cut, the panels can be mounted on walls, fixed into exhibition systems, or displayed on stands. Installation depends on the shape and size, but the process is often just as simple as with a standard rectangle.

Where Custom Shapes Really Shine

Custom-shaped panels work well in many industries. They are especially useful in areas where visual impact and creativity are important.

Retail Spaces

Shaped panels can be used for hanging signs, point-of-sale displays, and window graphics. They help stores stand out and create a unique shopping experience.

Exhibitions and Events

Exhibition panels don’t have to be square. Unique shapes can help your brand get noticed in a busy event hall. When used within shell scheme panels, they can add personality and make your booth stand out from others using standard templates.

Corporate Interiors

Offices and workspaces are using shaped panels to showcase branding, display values, or create feature walls. These shapes add interest to plain spaces and reflect modern design trends.

Hospitality Venues

Restaurants, cafés and hotels use shaped panels for menus, signage and decor. They can create mood, guide customers, and support the overall theme of the venue.

Public Spaces Education

Schools, community centres and libraries use creative signage and shaped displays to inspire and engage visitors. From themed murals to directional signs, shapes help make information more appealing.

Brand Benefits of Breaking the Box

Using custom shapes isn’t just about looking good – it also helps your brand. Unique shapes:

• Help your booth or store stand out
• Make your logo and message more memorable
• Show your creativity and innovation
• Help you stay ahead of design trends

If your brand has a strong personality – playful, bold, modern, or creative – then using a custom-shaped panel is a great way to reflect that visually. It gives your business a professional look while showing you're not afraid to do things differently.

Things to Consider Before Going Custom

Before switching from standard to shaped, there are a few things to think about.

• Mounting and Display: Will it hang, sit on a stand, or be attached to a wall? Unusual shapes may need custom fixtures.
• Transport and Storage: Some shapes might not stack as neatly or may need extra protection.
• Graphic Design Fit: Make sure your text and images work well with the chosen shape.
• Functionality: It should still serve its purpose – giving information, branding, or guiding people.

Working with a professional printing company can help you get these details right.

Creative Inspiration: Thinking Outside the Rectangle

Shapes offer limitless options. Here are some suggestions that have worked well:

• Speech bubbles for customer quotes or signage in retail stores
• Geometric designs like hexagons or triangles for tech or fashion brands
• Silhouettes of products, like a coffee cup for a café or a shoe for a footwear display
• Curved edges or rounded corners for a more modern, elegant look
• Layered shapes that add depth and movement to the design

These shapes can transform simple exhibition panels into works of art that catch attention and communicate more than just information.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Panel Design?

As printing and cutting technology keeps improving, we’ll see even more exciting options in custom panel design. In the future, panels might include:

• Interactive features like touch elements or lighting
• Sustainable materials cut into clever shapes to reduce waste
• 3D elements that add depth and motion to flat panels

Design is always evolving, and shaped panels are a part of that movement. They offer a simple yet powerful way to show creativity and grab attention.

Conclusion: Break the Mould with Confidence

It’s clear that custom-shaped panels have a lot to offer. They’re creative, eye-catching, and help brands stand out in a crowded world. Whether you’re designing shell scheme panels for your next event or creating long-term signage for your business, think beyond the rectangle. Shapes add personality, creativity, and a fresh perspective to your design.

If you're ready to move beyond traditional panels and want something that truly represents your brand, speak to the experts. Board Printing Company can help you create custom-shaped exhibition panels that turn heads and leave a lasting impression.