Creating an inviting and visually appealing market stall is key to attracting customers and showcasing your products. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is by choosing the right backdrop for your stall. Here are five different types of backdrops we recommend to help your market setup stand out:

1. Fabric Backdrops

Fabric backdrops are versatile, affordable, and easy to set up. You can use a sheet, a tablecloth, or a bolt of fabric from your local craft store. You can even sew one together using fabric remnants for a patchwork design. We recommend solid colours or subtle patterns to keep the focus on your products and avoid overwhelming the overall setup. These can be hung from photography backdrop stands or crafted into something custom. You can see more Fabric Backdrop Inspiration from The Finders Keepers stallholders here.

2. Stretchy Backdrops

For a professional finish, consider a stretchy backdrop or “media wall”. These are perfect for showcasing your logo and brand. Avoid using large images (that can get blurry or pixelated) or excessive text that might distract from your products. Less is more! Check out Stretchy Backdrop Inspiration from our creative community for ideas here.

3. Wooden Backdrops

Wooden backdrops are sturdy and ideal for stallholders who want to hang art or products from the backdrop to maximise their stall space. The great thing about wooden backdrops is that you can repaint them every six months to refresh your look. You can choose colours that complement your branding and products, and make sure you weigh them down so they don’t fall over. Get inspired by our stallholder’s and see Wooden Backdrops here.

4. Shelves

Shelving backdrops are ideal for stallholders who want to incorporate storage into their stall design to display extra stock, such as ceramics and candles. Our top tip for using shelves as a backdrop is to add a solid backing, such as fabric or wood, to keep the focus on your products and prevent people from seeing the chaos (or other stalls) behind you. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference! Take a look at some Shelf Backdrop ideas from our past events here.

5. Pegboards

Pegboards are an excellent choice for market stallholders seeking a versatile and customisable backdrop. These flat-pack designs from Market Stall Co are available in a bunch of sizes, styles, and accessories to suit different products. We recommend painting your pegboard to match your branding to make your stall stand out. For more Pegboard Backdrop Inspiration, check out the Pinterest board here.

Tips for Choosing Your Backdrop

• Keep It Simple: Less is often more when it comes to backdrops. Avoid cluttered designs that could distract customers.
• Reflect Your Brand: Choose colours, materials, and designs that align with your brand identity.
• Prioritise Portability: Markets often require quick setups and packdowns, so go for backdrops that are lightweight and easy to transport.
• Weights: Ensure your backdrop is sturdy and securely weighted within your stall space, especially near entrances or exits where wind can be an issue. Proper support and weighting are essential for safety and stability.
• Height: At The Finders Keepers Markets, backdrops can be up to 2.2m high and side walls 1.7m. We recommend making your backdrop taller than you.
• Be courteous to your neighbours: Make sure the back of your backdrop is clean and visually appealing, as it will be visible to neighbouring stallholders. Discuss your layout with them to manage expectations and avoid surprises during setup. A little planning ensures a smooth and happy experience for everyone!

Choosing the right backdrop for your market stall is essential for creating a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you go for a fabric backdrop, pegboard, or shelves, make sure it reflects your brand and suits your products. Have fun designing your stall!

For more inspiration for market stall backdrops, check out our Pinterest Board.

All of the photos in this post have been beautifully captured by Samee Lapham.