How do I get rid of folds in the fabric when people are standing on the floor?
Sometimes the backdrop will need something to cling to. For this we would recommend going to your local carpet store and ask about a low-pile rug to place under your backdrop. These are generally fairly inexpensive and possibly free because they often have extra cuts leftover from previous jobs.. We would also recommend taping down the edges to minimilize movement with masking or painter's tape. This will hold the backdrop in place without leaving behind residue on the fabric like duct tape might.
How do I store it?
Our backdrops can be stored practically any way you want--folded, or stuffed in a bag or crate. This is the flexibility that comes with a wrinkle-resistant, washable backdrop cloth. JerseyCloth is wrinkle free. PrismaCloth or InspiraCloth may require steaming between usages if stored in a hard folded manner.
For long-term storage you can either fold your backdrop, stuff it into a bag or crate, or slide it to the side on your backdrop track system. You can even roll it, if you prefer, though it probably will not roll well on a permanent mounted roller system (the fabric will be too thick). If you'd like to store it rolled, we recommend going by your local carpet store and asking for a carpet roll. Generally, these local businesses are more than happy to give these away, as they usually have several available that are just going to be thrown out otherwise. It's been our experience that there is an unending supply of these rolls for free as long as you don't ask for too many at one time.
How do I steam my backdrop?
Hand-held steaming method
1. Before you unfold the background, make sure the area is clean and dry. Mount or hang the backdrop for use using the provided rod pocket sewn into the top of your backdrop.
2. Move the steamer over the wrinkled areas quickly and repeatedly until each wrinkle is gone. We also recommend against putting cloth or anything else around the mouth of the steamer that would cause moisture to accumulate and transfer to your backdrop. If this does happen though, just let it air dry--it will not be a problem.
3. After you have steamed the half of the background that is reachable from your standing position, you'll need to flip it so that it hangs from the opposite end. Then steam the side you were previously standing on.
4. After steaming the background, we recommend that you do no re-fold the background for short-term storage, as this may cause the wrinkles to return. Simply hang the backdrop, and gently fold the sweep/floor portion of the backdrop up onto itself until it is ready for use.
Dryer steaming method - Jersey ONLY
1. Before you unfold the background, make sure the area is clean and dry. After the backdrop is unfolded, loosely wad up the backdrop and place in the dryer with a clean, damp hand towel. This will provide the moist heat ot steam your backdrop.
2. Dry the backdrop and towel on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until the wrinkles have relaxed from the cloth.
3. Mount or hang the backdrop for use using the provided rod pocket sewn into the top of your backdrop. Your backdrop should be ready to go!
4. After steaming the background in the dryer, it is recommended that you do not re-fold the background for short-term storage, as this may cause the wrinkles to return. Simply hang the backdrop, and gently fold the sweep/floor portion of the backdrop up onto itself until it is ready for use.
What If My Clients Spill Or Stain My Backdrop During A Shoot?
Our dye sublimation printing process locks in the colors of your backdrop which makes it safe for you to lightly launder your backdrops as necessary. Enzyme based spot removal methods such as Shout or Tide have proven to work well. We recommend colder temperatures if you're throwing them in the washer with a quick tumble dry after. These are just suggestions of course to use at your own discretion. We recommend testing out any process on a small corner of your backdrop before apply the technique to your whole backdrop.