How to Strip the Width of Aerial Fabric

For those with smaller hands, such as children, a common question we get is, “Can I cut the aerial fabric to make it narrower in width?” The short answer is yes, you can strip the fabric to reduce its width. However, it's important to understand that this can affect the fabric's minimum breaking strength as noted in the product specifications. Since we can't break-test all fabric types and widths, striped fabrics are not tested by us and therefore, we cannot strip them for you. If you choose to strip your fabric, be aware that it might not retain the same strength as when you purchased it. However, when the fabric is cut it will not fray or “damage” the product in any way.

Follow these steps to strip your fabric yourself! 

#1. Lay the fabric flat in a spacious area with a hard floor as you will be measuring and cutting. 

#2. Measure the full width of the fabric and determine your desired width. For example, if the fabric is 108 inches wide and you want it to be 90 inches wide, you would strip 18 inches off the fabric's width.

#3. Using a yardstick, measure 18 inches from one side of the fabric’s width and mark this spot with a small dot. Repeat this measurement roughly every foot and a half down the length of the fabric. You can also draw a line connecting these dots to ensure that the fabric is cut perfectly, but we find that eyeballing the scissor line is just as effective and takes less time. 

#4. Follow the dots and start cutting! A pair of sharp, new scissors is ideal to make an effortless and clean cut. We prefer to cut while seated on the floor in a straddle position. This allows a good eye line to see where you are cutting, more room for your hands while they cut. 

Take care in stripping your aerial fabric to your desired width, but keep in mind that once the fabric is hung, the edges will naturally roll inward slightly, concealing any minor imperfections in the cut.