How to Cover a Pavilion with Wedding Draping

Let’s face it,  your wedding pavilion looks sad—how do you fix that?

Throw on fabric

BOOM

instant magic!

When organizing a wedding or event in a pavilion or any outdoor setting, a great idea to elevate the ambiance is with drapery. That touch of elegance enhances your wedding decor and improves the look of a boring wooden pavilion.

pavilion draping creates a picturesque backdrop for wedding photos

In this manual, we will provide you with a complete walkthrough on how to drape a pavilion. This is hands down the easiest way to charm up your event space without going over budget.

Essential Requirements to Begin

Before starting the process of setting up your curtains or drapes, make sure you have all the necessary items and tools. Whether you’re decorating a wedding pavilion or working on home décor upgrades, having everything in place will ensure a smooth and efficient installation process.

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Here’s a simple checklist of essential materials to gather:

• Base plates to create the foundation
• Vertical upright poles to support the fabric.
• Crossbars to keep the fabric in place along the poles.
• White wall drapery (change color with tent uplights).
• Zip ties to hold the fabric in place (you provide).
• Pair of snips to cut the zip ties (you provide).
• Add string lights, to enhance the ambiance.

Step 1: Put Together the Foundation Plates

The first step in your setup is assembling the base plates. These plates serve as the foundation for the poles, so securing them properly is crucial. Fasten the screws into the center of each base plate.

ensure they are tight but not over-tightened

Make sure you complete this step for each foundation plate and position them at the bottom of every pavilion post. The pavilion posts should be 10 feet apart to match with a 10 foot crossbar.

Step 2: Position the Poles

After securing the base plates, it’s time to install the poles. Insert each pole into its corresponding base plate, ensuring they stand upright and firm.

make sure that the poles are evenly spaced & lined up correctly

This step will help ensure a symmetrical look for your drapery. Take your time to adjust the poles if necessary before moving on to the next phase of your setup.

Step 3: Secure the Crossbars in Place

Now it’s time to attach the crossbars. These bars will support the drapery fabric and keep it in place. Depending on the dimensions of your pavilion and the available space, you may need to adjust the length of the crossbars to fit the area.

while 10-foot crossbars are typically used, we’ve opted to shorten them to 7 feet to better fit this space

Once the crossbars are the correct length, securely attach them to the poles. Make sure the crossbars are evenly distributed across the entire perimeter of your pavilion, ensuring stability and balance.

Step 4: Lay the Fabric Over the Crossbars

Now it’s time to add the fabric! We recommend 4 pieces per 10 foot linear section of crossbar. Begin by draping your fabric over the crossbars. If the crossbars are shorter, you may want to use two or 3 pieces of fabric per crossbar.

for longer crossbars, consider adding extra fabric to achieve a fuller look

Gently arrange the fabric so that it hangs smoothly and evenly, making sure it falls symmetrically to the floor. This step is where the transformation of the space truly begins, and the drapery starts to take shape.

Step 5: Ziptie Fabric Center & Raise

After placing the fabric over the crossbars, it’s time to secure it. Use zip ties to fasten the fabric in place. Overlap the edges of the fabric, pull it taut, and use the zip ties to keep it secure.

this step will prevent the fabric from shifting or blowing in the wind

Be mindful when using zip ties—reposition them so they aren’t visible in photos or pictures. Once this step is done raise all your uprights in increments to the desired height.

Step 6: Adjust the Drapes

Once the fabric is secured, check to ensure that it is snugly positioned against the poles and base plates. You can tuck the fabric around the base plates to ensure stability and give it a more polished appearance.

use zip ties to keep the fabric gathered near the uprights, you may need 2 or 3 connected together

In areas with windy conditions, like a pavilion, it’s especially important to make sure the fabric is tightly secured to prevent it from fluttering or becoming messy. Take your time to make sure everything is in place.

Step 7: Enhance Security Measures

To make sure your drapery stays securely in place, especially in windy conditions, consider adding extra security. Use additional zip ties or strings on the poles to reinforce the setup.

Zip tie EVERY upright to the pavilion beam, this is what keeps your drapery from blowing over

Take a step back and evaluate the arrangement to ensure everything looks even and tidy. If necessary, make adjustments to improve the overall symmetry and appearance of the fabric.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches & Lights

To further enhance the atmosphere, consider incorporating lighting into your setup. String lights or bistro lights can add warmth and charm to your pavilion.

hang string lights along the ceiling or aim outdoor uplights from the bottom up your fabric

In addition to lighting, you may want to add other decorative elements, such as flowers, ribbons, or greenery, to complement the drapery and tie the entire design together.

Pavilion Wall Draping Final Thoughts

any combo of draping, lighting, & decorative touches will elevate the overall look & create warmth

Decorating a wedding or event venue doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. With the right supplies and a bit of patience, you can easily transform any space into an elegant venue for your celebration. While the process may seem straightforward, it’s important to pay attention to detail and ensure the fabric is properly secured.

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By preparing ahead of time and selecting the right materials, you can create a stunning backdrop that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Whether you tackle this project alone or with the help of a friend, this draping setup will be the highlight of your event.