How to tent a room
* Use either existing picture rails for the framework, or create the equivalent by fixing softwood battens at the appropriate height. The essential tool to attach fabric to battens: a staple gun.
* Simplify the Raj Tent version by making a canopy that stretches across the ceiling, from one opposite batten to the other; the canopy consists of cut lengths of fabric that overlap, to look like one.
* Measure across the ceiling, and allow approximately 10 per cent extra fabric; for a billowing canopy, allow one-andahalf times the width of the ceiling.
* Do not hang any fabric close to working electric lights or heat sources.
* To determine the amount of fabric needed for the walls, measure the walls of the room from side to side and top to bottom, allowing 10 per cent extra. The walls of the tent are created by hanging vertical cut lengths from the picture rails or battens. For extra effect, you could pleat them, but allow extra fabric.
* The stapled joint, between the ceiling and wall sections can be hidden by adding a broad trim or scalloped edging from a good haberdashery department. Alternatively, make an edging from felt in a contasting colour, using a cardboard template of a castellated edge as a cutting guide.
Sources
* Theatrical fabrics including felt: B&B Brown (0870 534 0340).
* Indian fabrics: Rainbow Textiles, Southall (020 8574 1494).
* Foam rubber to create instant seating: Shepherd’s Bush market.
* Moroccan items: Goldborne Road, W10.
* Middle Eastern food, Goldhawk Road, W12.
* Lanterns, cushions, glass votives, leather pouffes, Syrian metal tables and Tunisian bowls, all from Raj Tent Club (020 7376 9066). Also available to hire.
* A customised tented room from the Raj Tent Club costs from £1,000; tents to hire, from £500.
* For exotic catering, Marks recommends The Lotus Food Co (020 8428 6300; www.thelotusfoodco.com).
