How do I achieve a smooth, professional look with velvet spins?

I'm starting a costume project that requires several sections of spinning velvet panels, and I'm struggling with the mounting hardware. I want the movement to look graceful, like a dancer's spin, but the velvet is heavy and tends to snag or bunch up when it rotates. I've tried using lightweight rods, but they seem to lose tension quickly. Has anyone worked with large-scale spinning fabrics like this before? I'm looking for advice on the best type of bearing or pivot point to ensure a consistent, smooth spin without excessive friction or visible seams. Any tips on pre-treating the velvet to minimize static cling would also be greatly appreciated.