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Measuring Stage Curtains

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How do I know what size the curtains should be?

Often, there is a tag or label sewn to the rear of the drape to one side, at the top or bottom of the curtain. This should have the dimensions and the type of fabric used, as well as a date of manufacture.  If you cannot locate a tag, we need a measurement of the height and width of the curtain to provide a quotation for replacement.

How do I measure my existing curtains?

How to Measure Your Curtain’s Height:
Measure the drape from the top of the curtain to the floor.
Do not worry about where the grommets are placed – we will take that into consideration when we quote your curtains.

How to Measure Your Curtains Width:
Measure the width of the drape as it hangs!
Place your tape measure on the floor at one end of the drape and extend the tape measure to the other end of the drape. This may be confusing, especially if there is fullness in the drape (that pleated look), but do not stretch the curtain. What we need to know is how much space the curtain needs to cover.

  • If it is a Bi-parting curtain, that is 2 panels that open in the center and splits to both sides, measure both sides to make sure the measurements are the same.
  • If it is connected to a track that allows the curtain to be drawn open, as a double check count the carriers (what the curtain is attached to) as a double check for us.

Most drapes are made of sewn vertical panels that are 54 wide. This can be measured by going to the rear of the drape and stretching the material straight between two seams. This measurement should be approximately 52 ( Depending on the material it may be approximately 46 wide – note which).   The number of fabric widths used, in combination with the width of a panel,  is a great way to double check your measurements.

Confused?

Contact Parlights

 

It’s OK.  When in doubt, just give us a shout – Parlights will be happy to schedule a time to visit your facility, perform a survey, take measurements, and make recommendations.

 

You can also reach us via telephone,
301.698.9242

 

 

Curtains

More about Stage Curtains

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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.

Curtains

Types of Stage Curtains

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Types of Stage Curtains

On a typical stage there are three main types of curtains.

Main Drape
There is usually a front curtain or main drape. It is often made in two panels that are attached to a track and separate from the center moving to each side of the stage. This is called a Bi-parting traveler. Often there is a border or valence of the same color just in front of the Main Drape.

Masking Curtains
Depending on the size of the stage there may be a series of Legs and Borders. The Legs are narrow vertical panels on each side, masking the backstage area. The Borders are horizontal panels above the stage to mask lighting, tracks, and pipes.

Backdrop Curtains
Usually there is some type of curtain at the rear of the stage. This might be a Cyclorama (“Cyc”) that is used as a back drop for reflecting colored light or special effects.  Additionally (or alternately), there is often a black curtain that is made up of one or two sections (a bi-parting curtain similar to the Main Drape).

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