Professional pipe and drape systems for events
Pipe and drape is a freestanding framework used to support compatible fabric backdrops without permanent wall or ceiling fixings. A typical system combines weighted base plates, spigots, vertical uprights and horizontal crossbars, with drapes threaded over or attached to the crossbars.
Modular sections can be arranged in straight runs, corners, enclosed areas and multiple connected bays. Common applications include wedding backdrops, exhibition stands, changing rooms, theatre masking, temporary partitions, photography backgrounds and concealing storage or production areas.
Equinox or Global Truss pipe and drape?
- Equinox pipe and drape provides a black aluminium system with a telescopic upright adjustable from 1.8m to 4.2m. Two crossbar sizes cover adjustable spans from 1.3m to 2.1m and from 2.1m to 3.6m.
- Global Truss Curtain Call offers a wider choice of vertical sections, including a fixed 1.2m upright and telescopic options covering 0.9m to 1.5m, 1.8m to 4.2m and 2.4m to 6m. Adjustable crossbars cover spans from 1.3m to 2.1m and from 2.1m to 3.6m.
The Global Truss system provides additional height choices for low partitions and tall backdrops. The Equinox system provides a focused component range for common event and venue-dressing layouts. Components should remain within their specified system unless cross-compatibility has been explicitly confirmed.
What components make up a pipe and drape system?
- Base plates provide the floor-level foundation for each upright. Both ranges use 450 x 450mm steel bases with separate compatible spigots.
- Spigots connect the vertical upright to the base plate and must match the selected system.
- Uprights determine the finished height. Telescopic versions provide adjustment within their stated range.
- Crossbars span between adjacent uprights and support compatible pocket drapes or other approved fabrics.
- Top hats provide the connection points at the top of the uprights. Double-drape versions allow suitable crossbars or fabric layers to be arranged on both sides.
- Repair components are available for selected crossbar ends and other system-specific parts.
Drapes are separate unless an individual product or package explicitly states that fabric is included.
How do you calculate a pipe and drape layout?
Measure the required finished width and height, then divide the total width into bays that fall within the adjustment range of the chosen crossbar. Each straight run requires an upright and base at both ends, with another upright and base at every join between bays.
For example, a three-bay straight backdrop generally requires four uprights, four compatible spigots, four base plates and three crossbars. Corners, returns and double-sided layouts may require additional components or double top hats.
Choosing the correct drapes
Confirm the finished height of the supporting frame and select drapes with the appropriate width, drop and attachment method. Pocket drapes slide over a compatible crossbar, while other fabrics may use ties, eyelets or hook-and-loop fixings.
Allow enough fabric width to achieve the required fullness and opacity. A completely flat fabric run requires less material than a gathered or pleated backdrop. Also check the combined weight of every drape supported by each crossbar and upright.
Can pipe and drape support starcloths or banners?
Compatible drapes, lightweight starcloths and textile banners may be supported where their size, weight and fixing method are suitable for the selected system. Verify the complete suspended weight, power and controller cable routing, and the manufacturer's permitted loading before installation.
Pipe and drape is intended to support approved fabrics and lightweight display materials. It is not truss, lifting equipment or a general-purpose support frame for lighting fixtures, loudspeakers, scenery or other suspended loads.
Safe setup and stability
- Install the system on a stable, level surface using the correct base plates and spigots.
- Stay within the stated adjustment range of each upright and crossbar.
- Check every hook, locking mechanism and connection before attaching fabric.
- Consider the weight and sail effect of the drape, particularly on tall or long runs.
- Keep bases and floor-level components clear of public walkways where possible.
- Do not use the system outdoors or in moving air unless the manufacturer confirms suitability and an appropriate stability assessment has been completed.
Tall backdrops and public-facing installations should be planned and assembled by competent personnel. Additional ballast or restraint must only be applied in a manner approved for the selected system.
Drapes, staging and event lighting
Complete the installation with suitable stage drapes and LED starcloths. Related ranges include professional staging, event lighting and crowd-management equipment.