The red velvet rope is for use with the stainless stanchions.  The rope and stanchions are rented separately but pictured here for the purpose of use and functionality.  The ropes have a clasp on each end to allow the configuration needed for your specific event. The 8′ length is the distance measured when the rope is completely straight-  for the pictured effect you would allow 6′-7′ distance between each stanchion.