Drape Shop Lead / Stitcher Lead

Job Description

Job Description

Overview

When the curtain rises on that next big musical — or sweeps open in a brand-new performance space — you’ll know you had a hand in creating the beautiful, custom drapery that makes it all possible.

At BLS, we don’t just sew fabric — we craft custom curtains and soft goods that define theatres, venues, and creative spaces. From massive theatrical velours to intricate, one-of-a-kind pieces, our drape shop turns design concepts into tangible works of art through precision, creativity, and care.

We’re looking for a Shop Lead / Stitcher who blends creativity with craftsmanship — someone who understands that every seam and stitch contributes to something larger. You’ll help organize and run the drape shop, guide stitchers, manage workflow, and ensure every curtain leaving our doors meets BLS’s exacting standards for quality and finish.

This is a part-time to full-time hourly role (24–40 hours per week), with the opportunity to grow into a full-time salaried position with benefits. It’s ideal for a skilled maker who enjoys hands-on work, creative problem-solving, and being part of a growing team that produces exceptional custom work.

Key Responsibilities

Shop Oversight

Supervise stitchers to maintain efficiency and uphold BLS’s quality standards.

Assign tasks to ensure the production schedule is met.

Maintain the shop schedule in coordination with the Drape Shop Manager.

Communicate progress, setbacks, material needs, and maintenance requirements.

Fabric Handling

Select and measure specified fabrics for each project.

Cut large-scale materials accurately and efficiently.

Handle heavy fabrics safely to prevent damage.

Maintain organized material storage and workspace.

Sewing & Craftsmanship

Sew draperies and other soft goods according to build paperwork, design specifications, and BLS standard finishes.

Repair damaged draperies and curtains, ensuring they are restored to professional condition.

Execute seams, hems, pleats, and finishes that meet BLS’s standards of precision and consistency.

Quality Control

Inspect finished products for accuracy, quality, and adherence to specifications.

Identify and correct any defects or inconsistencies.

Report any subpar materials, equipment malfunctions, or maintenance needs to the Drape Shop Manager.

Teamwork & Collaboration

Collaborate with other team members to ensure projects are completed on time and to a high standard.

Assist with inventory management and organization of the drape shop.

Contribute to a supportive, creative, and detail-focused work environment.

Qualifications & Desired Skills

Significant sewing experience, ideally on industrial sewing machines.

Excellent basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Ability to follow directions with accuracy and consistency.

Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.

Excellent organizational and time management skills.

Ability to work efficiently and meet deadlines.

Works well independently and as part of a team.

Able to shift between projects as production timelines require.

Experience in a drapery or upholstery shop preferred but not required.

Experience in a theatrical environment preferred but not required.

What You’ll Be Part Of

As part of the BLS Drape Team, you’ll help create large-scale, custom curtains and soft goods for theatres, touring productions, and creative spaces nationwide. Every project is different — a blend of design, function, and craftsmanship that brings visual storytelling to life.

You’ll join a team of makers who take pride in their work, support one another, and build things meant to last.

Compensation & Advancement

Hourly Wage : $23–$26 / hour (based on experience)

Part-Time to Full-Time : 24–40 hours per week

Opportunity for advancement to a salaried position with full-time benefits (listed below) based on performance and growth

Full-Time Salaried Benefits (upon advancement)

401(k) with company match

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Two weeks paid time off (PTO) plus paid sick time

Paid holidays, including extended time around major holidays

Ongoing training and professional development

Conference and continuing education support

Supportive, creative, and growth-oriented work environment

Join Us

If you love working with your hands, have a sharp eye for detail, and take pride in building something extraordinary from the ground up — we’d love to have you on the team.

At BLS, we don’t just make curtains.

We make the moment before the show begins — and everything that follow