Blinded Behind Sheer

Alex Parsley from Asbury United Methodist Church in Madison, AL brings us these ornaments above sheer fabric covering blinders.

The big idea of their series was about second chances. So Alex could not help but think of cyclical ideas like Repair, Restore, Redeem, and Revolution. She kept seeing circles.

So she went to the craft store in hunt of just that. She purchased about 40 quilting looms and fabric to fill each one. She bought about a yard of broadcloth of each color, which she got for about $1.88 a yard. She stretched the fabric in each loom and then hung them over the stage at all different heights with Jute rope for a very natural feel.

They had circular shaped walls of lights from a previous series that she repurposed to bring the shape consistency down to the floor. They also still had the MDF circles that were cut out to build the lights just laying around in the storeroom. So, she added them into the suspended circles. All in all, the total budget for the project was about $250.

Creating Dynamic Stage Designs with Fabric and Circular Elements

Repurposing materials from previous stage designs is one of the most effective ways to stretch your church’s budget while maintaining visual impact. This design from Asbury United Methodist Church demonstrates how creative thinking can transform simple craft store finds and leftover materials into a cohesive, professional-looking stage environment. The circular motif creates visual harmony while supporting the thematic message of renewal and second chances.

The choice of quilting looms as the foundation for the suspended elements showcases resourceful problem-solving. These inexpensive wooden hoops, typically used for embroidery and needlework, provide perfect circular frames that are lightweight yet sturdy enough to hold fabric panels. By stretching broadcloth across each loom, the team created translucent discs that catch and diffuse light beautifully, adding depth and dimension to the stage without blocking sightlines or overwhelming the space.

Material selection played a crucial role in keeping costs low while achieving the desired aesthetic. Broadcloth at $1.88 per yard represents an excellent value for creating large visual elements. This versatile cotton fabric accepts light well, creating soft glowing effects when illuminated from behind or above. The natural texture of the jute rope used for suspension adds an organic, handcrafted quality that complements the fabric circles and reinforces the theme of natural renewal and growth.

Lighting design considerations were clearly integrated into the overall concept from the beginning. The repurposed circular light walls from a previous series demonstrate smart asset management—understanding what you already have in storage and designing new sets around existing inventory. This approach not only saves money but also reduces waste and storage clutter. The MDF circles that were originally cutouts from the light wall construction found new life as additional suspended elements, creating visual continuity between the floor and ceiling elements.

The vertical arrangement of circles at varying heights creates visual interest and movement across the stage. Rather than a flat, two-dimensional backdrop, this design occupies three-dimensional space, drawing the eye upward and creating a sense of depth. The varying heights also allow for creative lighting opportunities, as each circle can catch light differently depending on its position relative to stage lights. This layering effect adds sophistication to what is essentially a very simple construction technique.

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Pro Tips for Fabric Stage Designs

Choose the Right Fabric Weight: Not all fabrics perform equally under stage lighting. Broadcloth works well for this application because it is lightweight enough to hang gracefully but substantial enough to maintain its shape when stretched. Avoid fabrics that are too heavy, as they will sag and create uneven lines, or too sheer, as they may not provide enough visual presence. Test your fabric choices under your actual stage lighting before committing to large quantities.

Plan Your Hanging Points Carefully: The varying heights of the circles in this design create visual interest, but they also require careful planning for safe installation. Use appropriate hardware rated for the weight of your elements, and always secure hanging points to structural elements like ceiling beams or rigging points rather than drop ceilings or temporary structures. Document your hanging map so that installation can be replicated consistently for each use.

Consider Fire Safety: Any fabric used on stage should be treated with fire retardant or be inherently flame-resistant. Many craft store fabrics are not fire-rated, so factor the cost of fire-retardant treatment into your budget. Some fabric suppliers specialize in stage and event materials that come pre-treated. Always check local fire codes and your venue’s insurance requirements before installing fabric elements.

Storage and Maintenance: Fabric stage elements require proper storage to maintain their appearance between uses. Store fabric panels flat or rolled rather than folded to prevent creases that can be difficult to remove. Keep elements in a clean, dry environment away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading. Inspect all hanging ropes and hardware before each installation, replacing any items that show wear or damage.

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