Old Backdrop

[rdmor2]

Hello. I'm new in control booth. My church is about to begin a bible play and I've volunteered doing the props and backdrops. I have some experience in painting backdrops and doing some props. One of the challenges I'm facing right now is working with an old backdrop (20 ft. x 50 ft.) that needs to be cut and framed. After the play the drop needs to be taken off from the frame, fold it, and then store it. My question is what is the best way to attach the drop onto the frame and then be able to take it off without damaging it?
Anybody's help will be very much appreciated.

 

[Van]

I've seen old backdrop systems that simply used two pieces of wood that pinched the fabric of the drop between them. That's probably the most non-destructive you're going to get. I've seen ways of framing drops where they are lashed to a frame, but this requires grommets approx. every 8 - 12 inches around the perimeter.

 

[derekleffew]

I've seen touring shows use industrial Hook-and-Loop/Velcro™ (Link) to put painted canvas onto an aluminum "Broadway-Style" flat frame. Comes adhesive-backed. To supplement the adhesive, sew the soft/female part to the fabric and screw the hook/male to the frame. Took a fair amount of futzing to get out all the wrinkles, but the closest audience member was fifty feet away. Hint: Use 3/4" Loop, and the widest Hook possible (2", 4", or the width of your framing members) to allow for stretching/repositioning.

 

[Footer]

I've seen old backdrop systems that simply used two pieces of wood that pinched the fabric of the drop between them. That's probably the most non-destructive you're going to get. I've seen ways of framing drops where they are lashed to a frame, but this requires grommets approx. every 8 - 12 inches around the perimeter.

The "clapboard" method is my favorite for this type of application. Be sure if you do it though, that you get freakishly strait lumber otherwise you will be chasing wrinkles all day long.