Breakaway Banners
A Reusable Entrance for Game Day
Bring team colors, a mascot, and your game-day message together in a reusable breakaway banner. Two printed panels meet at a releasable center closure to form one coordinated image. During a properly planned entrance, that center connection separates instead of requiring the vinyl itself to tear.
Also called breakthrough, run-through, bust-out, or tear-away banners, these displays are popular for youth, high-school, and college football entrances, pregame and halftime activities, pep rallies, fundraisers, and other sporting events. Basketball, lacrosse, rugby, and school celebrations can also use them where the venue and event plan are suitable.
Some options may be available by request rather than listed online. For artwork, sizing, or project questions, call PDQ Signs 903-533-8050.
Material and Printing
This breakaway banner uses 13 oz vinyl, digitally printed with UV ink for a vibrant sports graphic. The material has a matte finish and flush-cut edges, with sewn pockets along the two outside vertical edges. The 13 oz designation describes material weight, not a thickness measurement.
This offering is single-sided only. Other materials, mesh construction, alternate surface finishes, and wind slits are not offered. Grommets are not available because the banner is supported using its side pockets.
Full-color artwork is included in the printing price structure. Adding colors does not create a separate color charge; dimensions, accessories, and artwork services can still affect your total. Fade- and abrasion-resistant ink does not make the print permanently fadeproof or scratchproof.
How the Breakaway Center Works
A ½-inch-wide hook-and-loop fastening strip joins the two panels vertically down the middle. Align and press the matching strips together before use. After separation, reconnect them to prepare for the next entrance.
Unlike disposable paper, the banner is intended to separate at the fastening strip and be reused. It is not a single sheet slit partway up the center. Do not add tape, extra fasteners, or other connections across the release line that could stop it from opening as intended.
Will My Design Look Like One Image?
Yes. Plan one overall design across the two panels, allowing for the center join and side pockets. The join is visible up close but the artwork reads as a coordinated image from a distance. Each individual panel has no additional panel-joining seam apart from its finishing construction.
Keep small lettering, faces, and critical logo details away from the center connection and pocket seams where practical. Check alignment and finishing clearances on the proof before approval.
Sizes and Artwork Planning
The stated custom-size range is 6 feet wide × 2 feet high through 15 feet wide × 10 feet high. Confirm the chosen size before ordering, particularly a 2-foot-high banner, since the applicable minimum can depend on the selected construction.
Popular sizes below are listed width × height:
- 12 × 4 feet.
- 10 × 6 feet.
- 12 × 8 feet.
- 14 × 10 feet.
Rectangular and square layouts within the production limits are available. Contour, halo, and other shaped cuts are not offered. Choose dimensions around the participants, the venue, the intended opening, and the adults who will support the display, not simply the largest available size.
What Should the Design Include?
A large team name, mascot, logo, and short motto usually make a stronger impression than a crowded layout. Supply your existing artwork or request help creating a design. Confirm artwork scope and any charges with PDQ Signs 903-533-8050.
As a rough lettering guide, allow about 1 inch of letter height per 10 feet of intended reading distance: 4-inch lettering for about 40 feet or 15-inch lettering for about 150 feet. This is a planning aid, not a guaranteed maximum. Contrast, font, lighting, movement, and eyesight affect readability; seeing a banner is not the same as reading its message.
Can I Order It Blank?
Yes. Request a blank or white banner if that is what your project needs. Custom printing is also available directly on the vinyl. Permanent marker or separately applied lettering may not produce the same appearance or performance; discuss any planned alterations before ordering.
Sewn Side Pole Pockets
Each banner has two continuous 2-inch sewn pole pockets running the full height of the outside vertical edges, one on each side. Each folded sleeve is open at the bottom and closed at the top. It is not a short loop or separate strap. These pockets fit compatible poles no greater than 1 inch in diameter.
Slide poles gently upward through the bottom openings without forcing them against the closed tops. The poles remain inside the side sleeves along the banner height. These are side sleeves, not horizontal top-and-bottom pockets. The standard taped-hem description for ordinary banners does not replace this specialty construction.
Optional Aluminum Poles
Two completed poles are needed, one per side. Compatible aluminum poles are an additional-charge accessory; confirm whether they are selected on your order. A replacement banner can be ordered without poles if your existing supports are suitable.
The optional poles are 1 inch in diameter. Each section is approximately 36 inches long and weighs approximately 0.6 lb. Connections overlap by approximately 3 inches, so assembled lengths are shorter than the sum of the separate sections.
| Sections per pole | Assembled length |
|---|---|
| 1 | 36 inches |
| 2 | 69 inches |
| 3 | 102 inches |
| 4 | 135 inches |
Match the assembled length to the banner height and desired ground clearance. Where practical, plan at least 1 foot of extra pole length, but confirm the actual configuration rather than assuming every size provides that clearance. A 135-inch pole is 15 inches longer than a 120-inch-high banner, not 2 feet.
How Do the Sections Connect?
Insert the button-equipped end into the matching receiving tube, depress the spring button, and slide until it clicks into the locking hole. Check that the button is fully engaged and the joint is secure. Assemble two equal-length poles before inserting them into the pockets.
Can I Use My Own Poles?
Existing poles must be no greater than 1 inch in diameter and suitable in length, condition, and end shape. Diameter alone does not prove compatibility. Avoid sharp or damaged ends, and check fit without forcing the sleeve.
Are Standalone Poles or Carry Bags Included?
Standalone poles are not a standard purchase option for this offering; ask about a replacement solution if needed. A carrying case for the banner is not included. Confirm the availability, inclusion, and price of a pole bag separately when selecting poles.
Assembly: Five Illustrated Steps
1. Lay Out and Join the Two Panels
Lay both panels printed-side-up on clean grass, carpet, or another non-abrasive surface. Avoid concrete, asphalt, and dragging the print. Align the matching hook-and-loop strips down the center and press them together along their length so the overall design lines up.
2. Assemble the Poles
Join the male and female ends of the pole sections. Depress each spring button, slide the sections together, and allow the button to engage fully in its locking hole. Assemble two equal-length poles and check every joint before use.
3. Slide Poles Into the Side Pockets
With the center strips connected, feed one assembled, compatible pole into the bottom opening of each full-length outer side sleeve. Slide gently toward the closed top without forcing the pole. Poles are an optional additional purchase if you do not already have suitable supports.
4. Raise and Support the Banner Evenly
With enough helpers, raise both sides together. Keep holders on firm ground outside the running lane. Maintain gentle, even outward support to reduce center sag, without overstretching the vinyl, bowing the poles excessively, or pulling the closure open prematurely. Never use chairs, tables, or ladders as holding positions during a run-through.
5. Check the Release and Prepare the Entrance
Before the team approaches, confirm the center separates as intended, the route is clear, and holders know to expect a sudden loss of tension. Plan a controlled entrance with the event organizer. The center closure should release; the vinyl should not need to tear. Reconnect the strips after use to prepare the banner for another entrance.
How Many Helpers Are Needed?
At least two people are needed to support the two sides; larger banners may require four or more. The appropriate size and number of helpers depend on the event, weather, participants, and their ability to control the display. Do not use chairs, tables, or ladders as holding positions during a run-through.
What About Center Sag?
Check panel alignment, equal pole lengths, and even support from both sides. Adjust the display from stable ground rather than reaching from elevated furniture or pulling excessively on the poles. Use a smaller or more manageable banner if helpers cannot control the selected size.
Game-Day Use and Precautions
Will It Tear When Players Go Through?
The intended action is separation of the center closure, not tearing of the vinyl. Repeated use is possible, but damage can still occur from wear, snagging, poor alignment, excessive tension, or inappropriate handling. Inspect the pockets, print, material, and center fastening before each use.
How Fast Should Participants Go?
This guide does not establish a safe speed or guaranteed release force. Do not treat a dramatic entrance as a reason to maximize speed or impact. The event organizer should plan a controlled entrance appropriate to the participants and follow the supplied product instructions. Stop if the closure does not release normally.
What Should Holders and Players Know?
Keep poles and holders outside the running path. Tell holders to expect a sudden loss of tension when the center separates. Keep participants spaced to avoid collisions, and prevent loose panels from becoming a trip hazard or being stepped on. Arrange supervision and a clear route before the entrance; a breakaway banner does not eliminate injury risk.
Can It Be Used Indoors and Outdoors?
Yes, with a suitable venue and event plan. Vinyl and UV ink provide weather resistance, not all-weather safety. Wind can make a large hand-held display difficult to control. Do not use it in unsafe weather or when the helpers cannot maintain control.
Cold weather makes vinyl more rigid and less flexible. Check the material and center release in the actual conditions before use, and do not force stiff material or use damaged fasteners.
How Long Will It Last?
An estimated three or more years is possible with appropriate use, care, and storage. This is not a guarantee; frequency of entrances, weather, handling, and maintenance affect actual service life.
Cleaning and Care
How Do I Clean the Vinyl?
Wipe with a soft microfiber or non-abrasive cloth dampened with warm water and a little dish soap. Allow the banner to air dry completely. Do not machine wash or tumble dry, and avoid abrasive cleaners or sharp objects.
How Do I Care for the Center Fastening?
Keep plants, loose fibers, string, rope, and fabric from becoming caught in the hook-and-loop strips. Remove debris promptly and check that the matching strips still engage and release correctly. Do not add adhesive or extra closures to compensate for a worn fastening.
How Do I Ease Wrinkles?
Lay the panels on a clean, non-abrasive surface and allow gentle warmth on a mild sunny day to relax light creases. Avoid excessive heat or forcing the vinyl flat. Deep storage creases may not disappear completely.
How Should I Store It?
Clean and fully dry both panels, reconnect the center strips, and roll rather than fold. For this breakaway-banner construction, roll with the printed side inward to help protect the graphics. Keep the roll in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and weather. Do not place heavy items on it, and keep poles and sharp hardware from rubbing against the material.
Why Work With PDQ Signs?
Built Around Your Team
Plan the artwork, size, and pole options for your event.
Plan Your Game Day
Share the date and confirm production and delivery.
Help With Your Design
Bring artwork or an idea. PDQ Signs 903-533-8050.
Planning a sports entrance? PDQ Signs 903-533-8050.
Images illustrate construction and setup concepts, not certified safety procedures or exact measurement drawings. Confirm the selected dimensions, accessories, charges, and supplied instructions before ordering and use.