Stage curtains create a barrier between the audience and the objects on the stage. While heavy velour or velvet curtains were common, canvas stage curtains are affordable DIY stage curtain alternatives and are used in many smaller theaters. Plus, treated canvas is flame retardant, which is ideal when they’re used near light fixtures.
Cotton theater curtains look great, but repetitive use can increase the need for repairs. Explore how to address the most common stage curtain repairs with quick fixes.
Broken Hems at the Bottom or Along the Seams of the Stage Curtains
Hems can break and split, rip, fray, or unroll. The repair depends on the exact issue. Either way, you just need a needle and heavy-duty thread. A sewing machine is better if you have time to take the curtains down, but a handheld sewing machine is a brilliant investment for emergencies.
A split seam occurs where two pieces of canvas are sewn together to form a larger curtain. If the hem loosens and the two curtain sections begin to separate, it creates problems. Start by sewing the seam where the two curtains start. As you reach the hem, fold it up and make sure that’s secured, too.
If stitches loosen and a hem unrolls, tuck it back up and secure it with a few blanket stitches for strength. A blanket stitch is easy to do as you insert the needle about ¼ inch ahead of where you need the stitch. As you pull the thread tight, ensure that the needle is in the loop the thread forms.
This will create a tidy, strong stitch that won’t tear apart. Continue along the hem going about an inch past where the hem started to unroll to ensure it’s secure.
Frayed hems and torn hems are other common types of broken hems that we’ll address below.
Discoloration, Fading, and Stains on the Curtains
Bright lights may discolor darker colors over time, and there’s not much you can do about it. If the discoloration bothers you, it might be time to replace the curtain.
To address discoloration caused by dust, you can have the curtains dry cleaned or washed, if possible, and ensure the stage curtains dry fully before hanging them back up. You should avoid washing flame-retardant canvas, as it degrades the flame-retardant qualities.
Stains caused by paint splatters, a spilled beverage or food item, or another on-stage prop or item are easily spot-cleaned. A handheld steam cleaner may be enough to quickly remove a stain, depending on the cause. Larger stains may require the curtain to be taken down. Remember that you cannot wash any flame-retardant canvas. If it’s necessary, retreat the canvas with a product like Flamex PF.
Flame Retardant Dissipation Occurs Over Time
For stage curtains that are treated with a flame retardant, it is important to keep them clean of dust. Vacuum them regularly using an upholstery attachment. Humidity levels in the theater also impact the existing flame retardant. Local fire codes may require you to have canvas curtains retreated every three to five years, but that’s an easy fix.
Purchase a flame-retardant sealant solution and apply it to the curtains. Make sure you allow the proper amount of time for it to cure. Most solutions require 24 hours to cure before you hang them.
Frayed Edges on the Curtain’s Hems and Seams
Frayed hems need proper repairs to prevent further fraying. A canvas repair kit patches the frayed area. Plus, the adhesive used in the repair cements the fray from being able to continue. Once the canvas repair is made, check it periodically to ensure it’s not coming loose.
If the curtains are long enough, address a frayed hem by trimming the frayed edge and creating a new hem at the bottom of the canvas theater curtain. This takes more time, but it addresses the issue and is perfectly even.
What if the seam or top of the curtain frays? The same repair is used. A canvas patch kit is a solid investment for any stage where curtains are opened and drawn repeatedly during a performance.
Ripped and Torn Stage Curtains
A torn or ripped hem is one of the hardest repairs to make. It can happen if an actor’s heel or stage prop snags on a curtain. Torn curtains also happen at the top of a curtain if someone pulls too hard, and they can happen in the middle of a curtain if there’s a prop like a tree that snags the curtain as it’s being opened.
Fix a torn hem or stage curtain by working on the backside of the canvas fabric. Invest in a canvas repair kit that has patches and a strong adhesive. Apply the patch over the tear for a strong, hard-to-see emergency repair.
Missing Grommets Where the Curtains Hang on Tracks
DIY canvas curtains usually have grommets spaced every 18 to 24 inches. With excessive use, grommets may come loose or rip out. Grommet repair kits make it easy to replace missing grommets. Replacement grommets come in black, brass, and nickel, which makes it easy to get an exact match to the other grommets. Measure the grommets that are currently in the canvas stage curtains to ensure you purchase the correct grommets. If you need ½ inch grommets for your stage curtain track and hangers, a kit with ¼ inch grommets won’t fit.
To repair a grommet, you’ll need the hole punch and a rubber mallet to hammer the top and back grommet sections together. When you purchase a kit, it may come with eyelet press pliers or a handheld grommet press machine, which eliminates the need for a rubber mallet and offers a faster, more precise grommet replacement.
A manual grommet press is a hand-held tool where you place each section of the grommet on the holders, feed the canvas curtain between them, and squeeze the handles to press the two sections together. It’s easy to use and makes it easy to replace missing grommets in seconds.
Work With a Pro to Repair or Replace Worn Stage Curtains
DIY canvas stage curtain repairs don’t have to be impossible. With the right tools and fabric, it’s easy to handle the most common issues on your own. Save money and get the job done quickly and correctly.
Chicago Canvas has the tools you need to complete canvas curtain repairs. A stage curtain has an end-of-life, which is usually between 10 and 15 years with proper care and maintenance. If it’s time for new stage curtains, we offer a variety of fabrics for stage curtains, including flame-retardant canvas. We also offer custom fabrication services. Our customer support team is happy to help you figure out if repairs or replacements are best.