DIY Panel System (Semi-Pro Panels)

Been crazy busy preparing for my first art fair.
I could not afford a set of pro-panels so I decided to build a 9 panel/3 wall system.

The frame is made of 2x2 pine.

I used 1/4'' plywood on the face

I finished the wall and legs with graphite colored outdoor carpet.

I purchased 2'' velcro, some snap grommets and curtain hooks to make some hangers.

I would have purchased harmon hooks, but didn't have time to fill out the order form, mail it in and hope to get them in time for the art fair this weekend.

The grommet was installed backwards on this, but you get the idea.

I hung one of my heavier pieces on the hook for a few hours and it never budged.

Finished size is 28x38 and has real glass in the frame.

Here are 3 panels side by side. When installed in the tent all 3 walls (9 panels) will be fastened together to make one solid piece. I will also be taking measures to ensure they are anchored and attached to the tent.

Finished size with carpet for the individual panels are 39'' wide by 6'6'' tall.

Please feel free to share your thoughts, good or bad on this.

Replies

Leslie Turner September 8, 2013 at 11:50pm

Thanks Ernie. I bought your E-manual last year and it gave me some ideas. Then my Dad and his welder got involved.
Leslie Turner September 7, 2013 at 3:06pm

Forget trying to find carpet to match at Home Depot or Lowes. Go to a Carpet or Flooring store. You can get the same carpet that is used on ProPanels, in all the same colors and more. They will have to order it, but my Floor store had it for me in less than a week. You can get it in 6'and 12' widths. Get together with another artist and order a roll to get the best price.
- Scott Ansert > Leslie Turner September 7, 2013 at 6:22pm
  
  Thanks Leslie.
- Ernie Kleven > Leslie Turner September 7, 2013 at 4:42pm
  
  Thanks Leslie. I was going to suggest that but I wasn't sure about it. Now I know what to tell other customers with a similar problem. In appreciation I'm sending you my new 4th printing of the E-Manual.
Leslie Turner September 3, 2013 at 10:55pm

I used contact cement to attach the carpet to the pipe and 3/4 inch foam insulation framework and sewed the top edges of the carpet together with an industrial needle and twine. Works great, even when hanging heavy fused glass art. Ordered my carpet from a local flooring store, matching the carpet on my Pro Panel pedestals. Lowes and Home Depot did not have the right carpet.
- Ernie Kleven > Leslie Turner September 6, 2013 at 6:47pm
  
  I just wanted to jump in here to say that I have re-done my website to include a page on my E-Manual for making your own carpeted display panels. I will still have my ad on ebay but this may be easier for some. Peace!
  
  http://www.erniekleven.com/display_panels.htm
  - Scott Ansert > Ernie Kleven September 6, 2013 at 7:09pm
    
    Only problem I have is that Home Depot or Lowes doesnt carry carpet that remotely resembles the Driftwood colored panels my wife already bought. Not even special order. Still looking but resigning myself to the fact that we are just going to have to buy the carpet sleeves from Armstrong.
    - Ernie Kleven > Scott Ansert September 6, 2013 at 7:45pm
      
      I totally understand Scott. Wish I could be of more help to you.
Scott Ansert September 3, 2013 at 8:46pm

Just wanted to say that I havent bought Ernies plans on Ebay but I have emailed him with questions and he has been very helpful. My biggest problem is finding any kind of carpet that resembles our Driftwood colored panels to use on other items that we didnt get from Armstrong but we want to match. Anyone have any ideas on that? Thanks
amy beth August 3, 2013 at 3:21am

are you zip tying these to a metal frame? I just wondered how you were going to make them stand upright outside of a garage setting :^)

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