A scrim is typically made of cotton and is a really light textile that's often used in theater. It's woven loosely so there are spaces between the fibers. The interesting thing about scrims is that they react very differently according to how they're lit. If a scrim has a design on the front of it and it's lit only from the front, audiences will see only the design. If the scrim is also lit from the back, audiences will see only a faint design but everything behind the scrim. If the scrim is lit only from the back, an actor standing behind it will appear to have a glow around him. Scrims are sometimes used in plays about the supernatural or when a production has to switch locations at a moment's notice.
By using large quantities of fabric, you can decorate your set by draping fabric all around it. Measure the size of your stage, and calculate how much fabric you need. When measuring, use a pliable measuring tape to accurately assess how much fabric you need. Bend the tape as you would the fabric, and record the length in a notebook. Then simply pick a type of fabric, such as velvet, cotton or chiffon, and hang it securely using construction staples, nails or curtain hangers. Draping creates a wistful effect for a stage.
Some plays call for rooms with large windows, such as ballrooms and estate houses. One way to decorate these stages is to hang large, flowing curtains. Decide on a lightweight fabric, like cotton, linen or silk, for these curtains. With a lightweight fabric, you can create a more active set by using fans on either side of the stage to make the curtains billow during the show. Hang the curtains as you would hang them at home, only use very thick rods, and secure them tightly to your set.
Tulle and wallpaper can add texture and depth to your set. Use wallpaper as you would in your own home. Decide on a pattern that's appropriate for your play, and apply it with a strong adhesive. Remember, your wallpaper will be exposed to heat from the stage lights, so apply it with a very strong glue. Tulle can act as a form of wallpaper as well, or can hang in bow or ribbon form on the wall of the set. Tulle is an excellent fabric to use if there is a wedding in your play.
Measure the amount of fabric you need for a projection. Purchase a white or light-colored fabric, and stretch it across an area of your backstage wall. This portion of the stage can be used for projections of images or moving images. Screens like this can compensate for limited set design, because you can tell your story through moving images. Make sure the screen is taut and secured in a wooden frame, then decide on the images you want in your show.