Do you wonder how to make theater curtains?
Then you have come to the right place because, in this post, we will be discussing the steps in making theater curtains.
But before that, let us first know more about theater curtains.
So these curtains add function, style, color both to small and large theaters.
They are typically hanged on tracks, so you will be able to open and close them.
In making theater curtains, it is best to pick rich colors which will work well into space.
Heavy fabrics that will drape well are also good.
Even though this project only requires straight and simple seams, it is still considered huge since the heavy fabric you will be using is massive.
Materials Needed
Before anything else, you need to prepare the materials first. Below is the list.
- Fabric
- Nylon webbing
- Snap hooks
- Sewing machine
- Upholstery needles
- Thread
- Ironing board
- Iron
- Tape measure
- Pressing board
Steps To Make Theater Curtains
Now that you have gathered all the materials needed let us now proceed with the procedure.
So, how to make theater curtains?
Step #1. Measuring the fabric
The very first thing that you need to do is to measure the length of the theater curtains.
It must extend from the top towards the stage or even lower to it.
Leave six inches for the bottom hem and two inches for the top hem.
Then decide on the width of the curtains.
Needless to say that it must be able to cover the entire width of the stage.
But more fullness can make the stage curtains richer and prettier.
Typically, you can add curtains through pleating – either by knife or box pleats.
For smaller theaters, about 50% fullness is required. But for formal theater, a hundred percent fullness is recommended.
Step #2. Determining fabric quantities
For you to be able to make adequate width, you need to seam several fabric lengths.
Then, multiply the length by 1.5 to create a 50 percent fullness.
But if you desire a hundred percent fullness, multiply it by 2.
Make sure to jot down these measurements so that you will avoid any errors when buying the fabric and cut it.
Step #3. Deciding for the pleating
At this point, you need to decide on what kind of pleats you will use.
As stated earlier, you can either go for a box or knife pleats.
Also, ensure that you have enough thread at hand.
Consider moving the sewing machine into a larger table to be enough space for you to work on this project.
Step #4. Cutting the fabric
After you have determined the right amount of fabric you need, you can now begin cutting the fabric into its desired length.
Use pins to mark the spot are needed to be cut off.
Press the fabric when necessary.
Step #5. Sewing the panels
Now, start sewing the panels together to make the desired width of the theater curtains.
Then hem the edges, 6 inches at the bottom and 2 inches at both sides—Mark the pleats using fabric marker pens.
Press them in place. Make sure to hide the seams in the pleats and sew them into place.
Step #6. Coordinating nylon webbing
Now press the top hem. It must be about two inches.
Then stitch it into place. Finally, secure it further by sewing the nylon webbing reinforcements.
Step #7. Finalizing the curtains
Double-check the sturdiness of the seams. Then attach any additional snap clips and tiebacks.
Once done, your curtains will be ready to be hanged on the stage.
FAQs
In this section, we will be answering the most common questions related to theater curtains.
Question #1. What fabric is used in theater curtains?
Typically, theater curtains are made of mohair, polyester, and cotton.
Question #2. What are theater curtains?
These are the front curtain on a theater.
It is also called the ac curtain, house curtain, or main drape.
They are usually hanging downstage right behind the proscenium arch.
Typically, its main purpose is to open and close on performances to conceal or reveal the scenery or the stage from the audience.
Question #3. What is the color of theater curtains?
Since the theater was originally from Europe, its inspiration has always been based on European styles.
That is why red curtains are often used for theaters.
The color suits the grandeur of theatrical ambiance. It is also associated with royal patronage.
Question #4. Why are theater curtains red?
The trend in using red curtains for theaters has remained since red the boldest color that can allow the spotlight to be shown on stage,
Other curtain colors will absorb the light, making it hard for the audience to see the speaker.
Question #5. What does red curtain mean?
Red is a color associated with romance and love, bringing a sense of excitement to a room.
It’s A Wrap!
Finally, you already know how to make theater curtains.
Just remember when working with velvet, you need to use the right pressing tools that are appropriate for this type of fabric.
Also, remember that this is a huge project. It can consume a lot of time.