Cotton Silk Muslin
A look at what is currently available on eBay
a few questions about muslin backdrops?
I am planning on getting a few muslin backdrops, but i want to ask a few questions about them first...
1) how easily do they tear? Would i be able to set it up outside on, say, gravel, and it not tear when someone walks on it?
2) How can you clean them? If they were to get dirty (like the white one i am getting), will i be able to clean them easily? And, if so, are there any specifics i need to know about cleaning them?
3) What material is it made out of (muslin, obviously, but what does it feel like? cotton, silk, those plastic table tops you can get during holidays?)
thanks ^_^
~*Tear*~
i wasn't going to actually use it on gravel, but i just wanted to give an example ;p just to see how strong it generally is ^_^
~*Tear*~
Muslin is, by definition a cotton fabric and generally quite strong. I suppose these days some cotton blends may be called muslin.
I use a couple of muslin backdrops from time to time indoors and out. I would describe then as over sized bed sheets. They would not tear easily when people wearing ordinary street shoes walk on them but would probably not do well if someone in spike heels walked on them if they are on gravel or muddy terrain.
I take mine to a laundromat with commercial sized machines to wash them (weigh the unwashed backdrop to get an idea of the size machine to use, most commercial washing machines have a recommended load size by weight).
Also, be aware, they are like big kites. If there is any breeze at all you will need weight bags to prevent most support stands from tipping over.
Good luck. HTH
ADDED COMMENT RE: Canvas ~
It is true that canvas is much more durable than muslin however it is
a) Very heavy which means that it is more difficult to set up, often requiring 2~3 people to place on a support, and can easily bend or strain the support stands.
b) Much more difficult to clean because you will not be able to wash it in machines. Talk to people who use sailboats to find out how they clean canvas sails!
c) Much more limited in the available selection of colors and patterns (but of course can be painted any way you would like).
d) Significantly more expensive!