Aerial silks, also known as aerial fabric or aerial tissue, is a type of performance art that involves acrobatics and aerial gymnastics using a long piece of fabric suspended from a ceiling. Hanging aerial silks from a ceiling can be a bit tricky and requires careful planning and execution to ensure that the fabric is secure and safe to use.
Here are the steps to hang aerial silks from a ceiling:
Check the weight limit of your ceiling:
Before hanging your aerial silks, it’s essential to ensure that your ceiling can support the weight of the fabric and the performer. Check the weight limit of your ceiling by consulting the manufacturer’s specifications or consulting with a structural engineer.
Choose a suitable rigging point:
Once you’ve determined that your ceiling can support the weight of the aerial silks, you’ll need to choose a suitable rigging point. Ideally, you should use a rigging point that is designed for aerial performance, such as a ceiling beam or truss. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional rigger or engineer.
Install a mounting plate:
The mounting plate is the hardware that will secure the rigging point to the ceiling. You can purchase mounting plates specifically designed for aerial performance or use a standard mounting plate that is rated for the weight of the aerial silks and the performer. Install the mounting plate according to the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure it is secure.
Attach a swivel:
A swivel is a device that will allow the aerial silks to spin and twist without tangling. Attach a swivel to the mounting plate using a carabiner or other hardware. Make sure the swivel is rated for the weight of the aerial silks and the performer.
Attach the aerial silks to the swivel:
Once the swivel is in place, you can attach the aerial silks to it. Use a carabiner or other hardware to connect the aerial silks to the swivel. Make sure the hardware is rated for the weight of the aerial silks and the performer.
Test the rigging:
Before using the aerial silks, it’s essential to test the rigging to ensure that it is secure and stable. Test the rigging by gently pulling on the aerial silks and checking for any movement or instability. If everything looks good, you can move on to the next step.
Use the aerial silks:
Once the rigging is secure and stable, you can start using the aerial silks. Remember to always follow proper safety protocols when using aerial silks, including wearing appropriate safety gear, performing proper warm-up exercises, and having a spotter present.
Some additional tips to keep in mind when hanging aerial silks:
Always use hardware that is rated for the weight of the aerial silks and the performer. Never use hardware that is undersized or not designed for aerial performance.
Make sure the aerial silks are not twisted or tangled before use. This can cause instability and make it difficult to perform acrobatic maneuvers safely.
Always inspect the aerial silks and rigging hardware for signs of wear and tear before each use. Replace any damaged or worn hardware immediately.
Always have a spotter present when using aerial silks, especially if you are a beginner or performing advanced maneuvers.
Never attempt to rig aerial silks without proper training or supervision. Improper rigging can result in serious injury or death.