How Do I Measure a Frame for a Replacement SEG Graphic?
If your trade show display frame is still in good condition but the fabric graphic is outdated, faded, or damaged, replacing the graphic can be a practical way to refresh your booth without purchasing an entirely new display.
However, ordering a replacement SEG graphic requires accurate measurements. SEG stands for Silicone Edge Graphic—a printed fabric graphic with a thin silicone strip sewn around its edges. The silicone edge fits into a groove around the display frame, holding the fabric in place for a clean, nearly seamless appearance.
Capital Exhibits offers SEG-compatible fabric frames and illuminated lightbox displays, including products that allow you to purchase graphics separately from the hardware.
This guide explains how to measure your existing frame, what information to record, and how to avoid common mistakes when ordering replacement SEG graphics.
1. Understand How an SEG Graphic Fits Into the Frame
Unlike a standard banner that hangs from a rail or attaches with hooks, an SEG graphic has a flexible silicone strip sewn into the fabric perimeter. The strip presses into a channel in the aluminum frame, keeping the graphic stretched across the display.
This design is commonly used for fabric backdrops, modular exhibit walls, and LED lightbox displays.
Capital Exhibits' SEGO Modular Lightbox Display uses dye-sublimated fabric graphics with SEG finishing. Its product listing also offers graphic-only and hardware-only options.
Before measuring, identify whether your frame is a standard fabric frame or an illuminated lightbox. The type of frame and its channel design can affect the specifications needed for a replacement graphic.
2. Gather the Tools You Need
Before starting, prepare the following:
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A tape measure marked in inches; millimeter markings are also useful.
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A notebook or phone to record measurements.
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A camera or smartphone for taking reference photographs.
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A helper for measuring large or tall frames.
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Access to the original product listing, invoice, or graphic template, if available.
If the display has LED lighting, also note whether the replacement needs backlit fabric or standard frontlit fabric.
3. Measure the Frame Width and Height
Start by assembling the frame completely on a stable surface, if it is a portable display. If it is wall-mounted, make sure you can safely access the measurement points.
Step 1: Measure the width
Measure horizontally from one side of the frame to the other. Record the measurement in inches and note exactly where the tape measure begins and ends.
Step 2: Measure the height
Measure vertically from the top of the frame to the bottom. Keep the tape straight and record the result.
Step 3: Identify what you measured
This is the most important step. The outside frame dimensions, visible opening, channel dimensions, and finished graphic dimensions are not always the same.
Different frame profiles and manufacturers can require different measurement methods. Some supplier guides use the outer frame dimensions; others specify measurements taken at the channel or live opening. Do not assume that the visible opening automatically equals the size of the replacement graphic.
If you do not have the original template, record the outside dimensions and take close-up photos of the channel. Ask the supplier to confirm the correct finished graphic size before printing.
4. Inspect the Silicone Edge and Frame Channel
The channel is the groove around the frame into which the silicone strip is inserted. Its shape and dimensions help determine whether a replacement graphic will fit correctly.
If an old graphic is installed, gently remove one corner so you can inspect the silicone edge and frame groove. Do not force the material if it appears stuck or the frame could be damaged.
Record the following information:
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The channel or groove profile, where accessible.
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The width and thickness of the silicone strip, if you can measure them.
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The depth of the frame profile.
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Whether the frame accepts graphics on one side or both sides.
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Whether the display is illuminated.
These details can help the supplier identify the correct finishing requirements. For example, Capital Exhibits lists a 3.3 x 8 ft SEGO lightbox with LED lighting and SEG graphics, while its Aspen SEG frame products have their own specifications and are not designed for backlighting.
5. Do Not Rely Only on the Old Fabric Graphic
It may seem easier to measure the fabric you are replacing, but the old graphic may have stretched, shrunk, or become distorted over time.
Instead, use the frame and its channel as the primary reference, and provide photographs of the existing graphic as supporting information. If you still have the original graphic template or product specifications, use them to help verify the measurements.
Because frame designs vary, have the supplier confirm whether it needs the outside dimensions, channel-to-channel dimensions, or a specified finished artwork size before you approve production.
6. Determine Whether You Need Frontlit or Backlit Fabric
The correct graphic material depends on your display.
Frontlit SEG graphics are generally used on frames where the fabric is illuminated by ambient light or external lighting.
Backlit SEG graphics are designed to transmit light from LEDs behind the fabric, as in an illuminated lightbox. Using the wrong material can affect the appearance of colors and the way light passes through the graphic.
For example, Capital Exhibits' SEGO Modular Lightbox Display uses backlighting to illuminate its fabric graphics. Before ordering a replacement, confirm the material and finishing requirements for your exact model.
7. Take Photos Before Ordering a Replacement Graphic
Photos can help the supplier identify the frame profile and verify the measurement method. Capture:
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A straight-on photo of the complete frame.
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A close-up of one corner with the silicone edge or channel visible.
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A photo showing the tape measure at the width and height measurement points.
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A side view showing the frame's depth.
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A photo of any brand label, model number, or product identification.
For larger frames, take measurements in more than one location to check whether the frame is square and consistent. If measurements differ, report the discrepancy rather than choosing a number arbitrarily.
When requesting a replacement, provide the photos along with the measurements and ask the supplier to confirm the finished graphic dimensions before printing.
8. Where Can You Buy Replacement SEG Graphics?
Capital Exhibits offers fabric display systems with SEG finishing, including options where graphics can be purchased separately from the frame.
Here are useful products to review:
SEGO Modular Lightbox Display
An illuminated modular display using SEG fabric graphics, suitable for exhibitors who want a backlit presentation.
Aspen SEG Fabric Frame Backwall
A fabric-frame display with replaceable silicone-edge graphics. Check the product specifications to confirm compatibility with your existing frame.
Showbird 65 20-Foot Lightbox
A wide illuminated display with SEG-finished graphics. Its product listing includes graphic-only options.
These are examples of compatible display systems, not a guarantee that their graphics will fit another manufacturer's frame. Always verify the exact frame model, channel profile, and required graphic dimensions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I measure the outside of the frame or the inside opening?
It depends on the frame profile and the manufacturer's measurement method. Record the outside dimensions and photograph the channel, then ask your supplier which measurements are needed to determine the finished graphic size.
Can I order a replacement SEG graphic without buying a new frame?
Yes, some display systems offer graphic-only packages. Capital Exhibits lists graphic-only options for several SEG-compatible products. Confirm that the replacement is compatible with your existing frame before ordering.
Can I use a regular fabric graphic in an LED lightbox?
Not necessarily. An illuminated frame generally needs fabric suitable for backlighting. Confirm the material requirements for your specific lightbox.
What happens if my measurements are slightly wrong?
The graphic may be too loose, too tight, or difficult to insert into the frame channel. The best way to avoid problems is to provide clear measurements and photos and obtain confirmation of the finished graphic size before production.
Conclusion: Measure Carefully Before Ordering SEG Replacement Graphics
Replacing an SEG graphic can refresh your trade show booth without requiring a completely new display. The key is to identify the frame profile, measure the correct reference points, inspect the silicone edge and channel, and confirm whether you need frontlit or backlit fabric.
Before placing an order, gather your width and height measurements, take clear photographs, locate the original model or template if possible, and ask the supplier to verify the final dimensions.
Explore Capital Exhibits SEG Fabric Frames and Modular Lightbox Displays to find display options and graphic packages for your next exhibition.
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