PROJECT

Project specifications

The client requested a sizeable ruched cloth to serve as a visually striking centrepiece for their Winter 2023 theatre production.

NAIDU needed a design to maintain a gathered look throughout, remain operable for live shows, and blend seamlessly into the set without disrupting the visual aesthetics.

Custom fabric solution

We proposed using a lower bar with rings to secure fly lines and ensure smooth operation. A hidden pocket was created to keep additional pickup points invisible.

Unique challenges

Given the cloth’s large width and complex gathering, we began by determining the ideal gathering ratio for the seams. The main challenge was achieving the perfect ruched effect without interrupting the fly lines.

To address this, we created a pocket along the cloth’s bottom to intersect with all seams, maintaining a balanced look. The horizontal stitching across the cloth had to be executed precisely to prevent snagging the hidden strings, which would interfere with movement.

The next step involved fitting rings along the seams to secure the fly lines while ensuring they didn’t disrupt the gathering.

This intricate process required careful planning, sample testing, and client collaboration to guarantee the harmonisation of the visual and operational elements.

Results

After approximately 40 hours of intensive sewing — each seam requiring five rows of stitching — the final ruched cloth met the client’s visual requirements and provided the functionality needed for live adjustments during the show.

The result was a striking set piece that complemented the production’s aesthetic while maintaining complete operational control.