Most wall graphics are a one-way trip. Once they are up, taking them down means scraping, tearing and repainting. Phototex works differently. This printable self-adhesive woven fabric removes in one piece without damaging the surface beneath, and it can be repositioned and reused. That opens up uses that would be impractical with conventional wall graphics: exhibition stands that tour, retail displays that change with the season, rented homes and offices, and event graphics that come out again next year.
Repositioning during installation
If a panel goes on out of line, there is no need to panic. Peel it back gently to the point where it went wrong and reapply, smoothing out from the centre. Lift slowly rather than snatching, and avoid folding the fabric back sharply on itself, as a hard crease can be difficult to flatten out. Keep the adhesive side clean while it is exposed.
Removing a finished installation
- Start at a top corner. Lift the corner with a fingernail or a plastic card, not a metal blade.
- Peel back at a low angle, keeping the fabric close to the wall rather than pulling it straight out towards you.
- Work slowly and evenly across and down the panel. If you meet resistance, slow down further.
- On larger panels, have a second person support the removed section so it does not fold onto itself.
- Once removed, check the panel for dust or debris on the adhesive side.
Phototex is designed to come away in one piece without surface damage. As with any self-adhesive product, results depend on the surface: paint that is poorly bonded to the wall, or very fresh paint, may lift regardless of what is applied over it. If the wall condition is doubtful, test a small area first.
Storing panels for reuse
- Reapply the original release liner if you kept it, or use a clean silicone release paper.
- Roll panels loosely, printed side out, around a wide core to avoid tight curves.
- Label each roll with the job name and panel order.
- Store in a clean, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.
Reapplying
Prepare the new surface exactly as you would for a first installation: clean, dry, smooth and dust-free. Then apply in the same way, smoothing from the centre outwards. Because Phototex does not suffer from edge curl, weakened adhesive or peeling in normal use, reused panels should sit flat. How many times a panel can be reused depends on how carefully it is handled and stored, and on the surfaces involved, so treat each move with care.
Ideas for reusable graphics
Touring exhibition walls, seasonal retail campaigns, pop-up shops, children’s bedroom murals that change as they grow, and temporary branding in leased offices are all good fits. See more on our applications page, or read about the material on the Phototex product page.
If you are planning graphics that need to move, our team can help you think it through. Phone 01252 624 411 or get in touch.