What type of fabric should I use?
Typically the Main Drape and Valance are made of Velour – made of either Cotton or Synthetic material. Velours are available in several different weights with several factors determining which weight may be appropriate. These factors can include light blockage, sound absorption, environmental conditions and budget. One of our salespeople will be happy to help you determine which weight will satisfy the needs of your stage at a reasonable cost.
The Masking Drapes, Legs and Borders, are often made of velours as well, though there are also other, less expensive, options available.
A cyc is typically made of seamless muslin.
What is Fullness?
Fullness is the amount of fabric sewn into a linear foot of the drape.
If a curtain is sewn with 0% fullness it is referred to as “flat”.
Curtains with added fullness (or a pleated look) will have 50%, 75%, or 100% fullness pleated into the drape.
- for a curtain with 50% fullness, 18” of fabric will be pleated down to 12”
- for a curtain with 75% fullness, 21” of fabric will be pleated down to 12”
- for a curtain with 100% fullness, 24” of fabric will be pleated down to 12”
Normally stage curtains will have some fullness added, though masking drapes (legs and borders) can be sewn flat.
Cycs, Scrims, and Drops are almost always sewn flat.
Should the drape be lined?
Lining is used primarily for three reasons:
- To provide light blockage
- To provide a level of protection to the drape
- To have the rear of the drape look finished
Lining does add cost to the drape because we are essentially making two drapes.
Discussion with our salesperson can determine whether this is a needed part of your drape
What type of top, side and bottom finish is needed?
Top Finish
The top finish is usually determined by how the drape is suspended. If the drape is capable of moving (or “traveling”), that means it is suspended from a traveler track. This will require a finish of s-hooks or snaps to connect the drape to the track. If the drape hangs without being capable of moving, ties are typically the appropriate choice.
Side Finish
Side finishes are typically a 2” side hem, though there are situations when a wider side hem or turnback is called for. Your salesperson can help determine your requirements.
Bottom Finish
The bottom finish is a lined hem with chain for curtains with fullness. Curtains sewn flat of with no fullness, drops, and scrims typically have a pocket built in the hem to hold weight, and stretch the curtain. This may be a pipe pocket (a pocket sewn on the back of the drop or scrim with a skirt in front that creates a light seal between the drop and the stage), or a pocket with sewn in weight or chain. Masking drapes that are sewn flat often will have a lined pipe hem which will give a flat line to the bottom of the drape.