Fig. 338.—Construction of Framework for the Canopy of a Table at a Fair.
To make a tent-like covering, firmly bind a large-sized Japanese umbrella to a pole, and fasten the pole in the centre of the table. To hold it securely, make a bench of two pieces of board, with a hole through the centre of each, and join them together by a block of wood nailed in each end (Fig. 339). The bench can be made fast to the table by screws put through from the under side of the top of the table
Fig. 339.—Bench for Holding a Pole as a Support for a Canopy of a Booth.
In erecting the canopy place the end of the pole in the bench and it will be steady and firm. Attach pieces of string to several ribs on each side of the umbrella, stretch the strings down and fasten the ends securely to the table; paste over the strings bright-colored tissue-paper fringe (Fig. 340). Cut the paper four or six thicknesses, and when pasted on turn the fringe part uppermost, so it will look fluffy and not hang down in a tame, fringe fashion. When a red umbrella is used, and the strings are covered with fringe of the same hue, it looks very pretty. Be extremely careful that no light comes dangerously near the tissue-paper, or any other inflammable material; all the decorations must be arranged with a view to perfect safety from contact with gas, lamp, or candle.
In decorating the room remember to mass your color so the effect may be broad. If the colors are too much mingled the effect will be weakened, and in some cases lost entirely.
Fig. 340.—Tissue-paper Fringe.
Paper-flowers and plants in great abundance will be needed, and if you can persuade all your friends, as well as those actively interested in the fair, to make paper-flowers or plants, they will prove very acceptable, and after the fair is over the floral decorations can be safely stored away to do service again on like occasion. Large, showy flowers, like peonies, dog-wood, and magnolias, as well as large-leaved plants, are best to use, though the smaller ones look well in a few places.