In The Limelight
Fabric Glossary
The Basics

Commando Cloth and Duvetyne

Duvetyne
Duvetyne has a light absorbing, brushed matte finish on one side. Because of its light weight (8 oz.), duvetyne is only minimally effective at concealing lighted areas. For this reason it is better for covering objects, than space.

Commando Cloth
Very similar to duvetyne but heavier (12 oz. and 16 oz.) and available in a variety of colors. Because of its heavier weight Commando Cloth is virtually impermeable to light and is sometimes used as a less expensive (and less durable) substitute for lightweight velour.

Both Duvetyne and Commando Cloth have an applied flame retardant. [about flame retardancy]

Muslin and Canvas

Muslin
Muslin is available in a variety of weights. It is used for both opaque and translucent backdrops, as well as for bounce drops and cycs. Muslin is available in white, natural, light blue and gray, and is available in non-flame retardant, and flame retardant. [about flame retardancy]

Canvas
Canvas is a heavy cotton material available in a several weights and widths. It may be used for applications such as ground cloths where muslin is too light.

Scrims

Sharkstooth Scrim
A flame retardant* 100% cotton fabric that resembles a close-knit netting. When Sharkstooth Scrim is lit from the front at an oblique angle and the area behind the scrim is dark, the scrim appears to be opaque. When the scene behind the scrim is illuminated it becomes "visible" and if the lights on the front of the scrim are removed, the scrim becomes virtually "invisible." In addition to this "now you see it, now you don't" effect, scrims may be used to "shield" a cyc or other backdrop from bounce light or flare, or to subtly soften the look of a scene or scenery.

Leno/Filled Scrim
Similar to a Sharkstooth Scrim with the openings filled in. Used for bounce drops and cycloramas to diffuse and soften reflected light.

Bobbinette
Bobbinette has a more open weave than scrim. Because it is less opaque it offers greater transparency when lit from behind.

Made from natural fibers with an applied flame retardant, scrims may be sensitive to environmental conditions and physical abuse. They may shrink or expand due to humidity or excessive use of stretchers or weight. Scrim is typically available in black, white, light blue, light gray and natural (used for painting). [about flame retardancy]

Velours

Velour
Velour is the most commonly used fabric for front curtains, legs, borders, etc. It has velvet-like appearance. Cotton velour is available in a variety of weights (16 oz., 21 oz., 25 oz.) and colors. The appropriateness of a weight is a factor of the amount of wear and tear expected, as well as the size of the drape. In addition, heavier velour will be more effective at blocking light or reducing sound transmission. Cotton velour has an applied flame retardant. Like all natural fiber fabrics, velour will be impacted by environmental conditions such as humidity, however with its heavier weight, it is less sensitive than many other fabrics.

Synthetic Velour
Synthetic Velour come in several weights (15 oz., 22 oz., 26 oz.), and a variety of colors and offer some advantages over cotton. Most are inherently flame retardant and they may be more suitable in difficult environmental conditions.

Flame Retardancy

Flame Retardant (FR)
Flame retardant fabrics have been treated with a flame proofing compound. These fabrics retain this fire retardancy for a limited time. Typically, flameproofing chemicals are water soluble and painting, washing, etc negate the fire retardancy. Excessive humidity may also reduce the flame retardancy over time. These fabrics can be re-flameproofed.

Inherently Flame Resistant (IFR)
These fabrics are made from a fiber that is noncombustible and flame resistant. This flame resistance is good for the life of the fabric.

Non-flame Resistant (NFR)
These fabrics have not been treated, or cannot be treated. They are frequently used for backdrops that are to be painted. There are flame-retardant solutions that can and should be added to the paint.

For more information, call call 1-800-243-4950