1. The "Floppy Paper" Problem

You bought a beautiful digital template from Digital Moments Rio, customized it, and printed it at your local shop or at home. It looks great, but there is one problem: it's just a piece of paper.

If you try to put a standard 24x36" poster on an easel, it will curl, flop over, or blow away instantly. To get that professional "wedding sign" look, your print needs to be rigid.

2. The 3 Main Ways to Display Signs

Depending on your budget and DIY skills, choose one of these three paths:

3. Method A: Using Poster Frames (The Easiest Way)

If you don't want to mess with glue, simply buy a poster frame in the size of your print (usually 18x24" or 24x36").

• Pros: Protects the print from rain/spills; the frame adds weight and style.
• Cons: Frames can be heavy and expensive; glass can glare in photos.

Tip: Remove the glass/plastic front for the event to avoid glare in photos, or buy "non-glare" plexiglass.

upsimples 24x36 Poster Frame

Simple, modern frame that fits standard large format prints. The lightweight design is easel-safe and budget-friendly.

Best Seller

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4. Method B: DIY Foam Board Mounting (Pro Technique)

This is how professionals make signs for cheap. You glue your paper print onto a lightweight "Foam Board" (or Foam Core). To do this without bubbles, use the "Hinge Method".

The Step-by-Step "Hinge" Workflow:

1. Align: Lay your print on top of the foam board. Do not glue yet.
2. Weight: Place heavy books on the bottom half of the print to keep it from moving.
3. Spray & Stick (Top): Lift the top half of the print. Spray adhesive on the exposed board. Smooth the print down from the center out.
4. Spray & Stick (Bottom): Remove the books. Lift the bottom half of the print. Spray the remaining board and smooth down.
5. Trim: Use an X-Acto knife and a ruler to trim the excess white edges of the foam board for a clean finish.

Why this works: By gluing one half at a time, you ensure the paper never shifts alignment. This is the secret to bubble-free mounting.

5. Essential Tools for DIY Mounting

To do Method B, you need the right glue. Standard school glue will warp the paper and create ripples. You need Spray Adhesive.

Elmer's Spray Adhesive

The secret weapon. Provides a permanent bond that doesn't wrinkle paper. Fast tack and water-resistant.

Essential

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Elmer's Foam Board (18x24)

Lightweight but rigid boards. 3/16" thick. Perfect for A2/A3 signs or smaller welcome displays.

The Base

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X-ACTO Compression Basic Knife Set

You need a razor-sharp blade to cut through foam cleanly. Dull blades will tear the foam.

Precision Cut

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18" x 24" Self Healing Mat

Protect your floor or table while trimming your mounted sign.

Protection

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6. Method C: Professional Rigid Printing

If you have the budget, you can ask a print shop (like Staples, Office Depot, or online printers) to print directly onto "Mounted Poster" or "Foam Board".

This is the "stress-free" option. You send the PDF file, and pick up a hard board ready to place on an easel. It typically costs 3x-4x more than DIY mounting.

7. Choosing the Right Easel: Wood vs. Metal

The easel makes or breaks the display. A flimsy easel will collapse if someone bumps into it.

• Metal (Instant/Foldable): Great for portability and modern looks. Usually adjustable height. Make sure it has "rubber feet" for grip.
• Wood (Tripod): Classic, sturdy, and rustic. Better for outdoor events as they are heavier and resist wind better.
• Tabletop: Small easels for 8x10" bar signs or guestbook signs.

8. Featured Easels (2025 Picks)

Amazon Basics Instant Easel

Portable, foldable, and strong enough to hold a standard foam board. Comes with a carrying bag.

Best Value

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Adjustable Wooden Easel (45")

Sturdy pine wood construction. Ideal for weddings, rustic themes, or outdoor venues where stability is key.

Sturdy Choice

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9. Decorating Your Sign

The sign is just the centerpiece. To make it "Pinterest-worthy", add:

• Floral Swag: Use a zip-tie to attach a bouquet of faux or real flowers to the top corner of the easel.
• Draping Fabric: Chiffon or cheesecloth draped over one side adds softness.
• Balloons: For birthdays, a balloon garland running down the leg of the easel is a huge trend in 2025.

10. Troubleshooting & Outdoor Wind-Proofing

Don't let your sign fly away. Use these pro tricks:

• Zip Ties / Cable Ties: Punch two small holes at the top of your foam board and use clear zip ties to secure it to the easel frame. It won't go anywhere.
• Double-Sided Tape: Place strong tape on the easel ledge to "stick" the bottom of the sign in place.
• Sandbags: If the easel itself feels light, drape a small sandbag (or a decorative heavy rock) over the back leg of the easel.

11. Frequently Asked Questions

What size foam board should I buy?

Buy a board slightly larger than your print (e.g., 20x30" board for an 18x24" print). It's much easier to mount in the center and trim the excess than to try and line it up perfectly on the edge.

Can I use regular glue?

No. Liquid glue (like school glue) contains water, which will ripple the paper as it dries. Use spray adhesive or double-sided mounting sheets.

How do I transport a 24x36 sign?

Foam board is fragile—corners dent easily. Keep the cardboard corners from the packaging on until you arrive at the venue, or wrap the sign in a towel/blanket in your car.