Display Question again - for any display guru's out there!

[cstovin]

Hi all, I have decided on a display configuration based on feedback from my earlier posts....what I didn't address was lighting issues. I am going to build some shelving like was mentioned before in my posts, as well have a table in the back part of my booth from the IKEA shelves - that was also an excellent idea.

 

What I am wondering is what everyone uses for lighting IF and WHEN they use lights. IKEA has some that I was thinking I MIGHT be able to route a small groove in the rear of my shelf units so the cord can fit inside and be somewhat hidden, then the light could hang or clamp to the back part of the shelf and shine forward to the pieces under the light and the shelf below.

 

For the more expensive pieces and not "bulk" items, those are the items I wanted to display on the shelfing; items that are a little more expensive, and not so much made in bulk. Items that are more bulk will go in the rear on the table shelving display.

 

 

For shows that are less formal, I won't mess with the lighting at all - but I wanted feedback on what you all use at higher level shows for lighting and how you attach them to your displays so they are no distracting from your display, but doing their job and enhancing it?

 

 

Thank you for the feedback!

 

Charlene

[GEP]

Charlene,

 

I used clamp lights from IKEA for several years when I was starting out. I think they did a great job, even though they were very affordable. You need 6 minimum to light a 10x10 display, but 8 would be better.

 

It was only when I started doing high-end indoor shows that I decided I needed to upgrade my lights, so that's when I bought track lights. I now use (2) four-foot lengths of track, plus (8) track light fixtures, and I think this is enough light for a 10x10 display. I install them with cable ties, so it's pretty fast to put them up and take them down. The track lights cost about $350, which I consider a big splurge as far as festival gear goes. I think it's my most expensive gear, aside from my canopy. But now that I've used them a few dozen times, I think they have paid for themselves in terms of easy installation and a professional look.

 

I bought the track lights at http://lampsplus.com and I will gladly recommend them.

 

I posted a new photo where you can see current light setup:

 

http://www.goodelephant.com/photos.html

 

 

Mea

[cstovin]

Thank you again~ I did see the clamp lights at IKEA and was wondering how they would work - I guess that answers my question! I got into a Western Art Show next month, and this will be my first jurried event, and I know a presentation is important I have done shows with my leatherwork, but the format (saddles) were different; but I want to be professional without breaking the bank. Thank you for taking the time to respond.

 

 

I got my husband to start on my shelves this weekend! ( ;0) ), and I am making a trip next week to look at what there is at IKEA for what you had already suggested for my table area display; just needed to figure out this last part. It all looks good on paper, but we will set it all up in the garage to make sure it all fits together well, looks good, and looks like I am thinking it will!

 

 

Thanks again!

 

Charlene

[GEP]

Yes you should definitely practice your setup at home before you head off for the first show. I would even advise that you time yourself so you know how much time you need for setup and takedown. It sure cuts down on stress when you know these things before you get on site. Have a great show! If possible, can you post a photo of how your display turned out?

 

Mea