Whether it is to save money or simply because you like DIY projects, it is fun to create something yourself occasionally instead of buying it. A projector screen is a good example. It isn’t a fancy electronic build and no electronics knowledge is required. This is a great product to save money on. If you get the best budget projector for home theater, you can save even more. That’s why I’m going to teach you how to make a projector screen.
Building a DIY projection screen is easy. You can make it stand or hang it on the wall. Once you are finished you will have a great place to watch your movies and they will look better than if you just projected them onto your wall. Whether you are having a quiet movie night or a large gathering, we have the know-how to get your screen created affordably. You can even play video games on it, just don’t let your kids play too late at night since studies show it affects their sleep.
How To Make A Projector Screen – It’s All About Location
Where you want to use it will determine the projection screen size that you need. You’ll need to think about lighting, the distance of the audience from the screen, and optimal speaker placement. A short-throw model will require a different distance than a long-throw projector.
Speaking of distance, you’ll want to know how many watts your projector uses. That way it’ll be strong enough to project onto your screen at the proper distance. Moreover, you’ll need to decide if you need a projector stand or if it will be a ceiling-mounted projector. If that’s the case, you’ll need to hide the cables for a ceiling projector. You don’t want those hanging above you or casting shadows on your projector screen.
Also, will everyone be able to see the screen properly when using your 4K projector? Think real estate: location, location, location. You can also choose to make a portable projector screen, which comes in handy for outdoor projectors. After all, if you have a portable projector your screen should be portable. A DIY outdoor projector screen will make movie night in your backyard theater easier if your backyard screen is easily movable. Don’t forget, you can also DIY a homemade projector for cheap.
You don’t want to crane your neck while watching your indoor-outdoor projector screen and you also don’t want eye strain, so a good rule of thumb is to place the screen at least 36 inches from the floor. And remember, place it in an area that does not get any ambient or outside light. This is good for your viewing, but sunlight can also harm the screen material over time.
You can choose to mount your screen on legs, a tripod or just attach it to the wall using a picture hanger. Ideally, you will create something you can use indoors and outdoors.
What Projector Screen Fabric Should I Use?
Movie projector screen fabrics come in stretchable and non-stretchable varieties. Most manual projector screens are not stretchable. The stretchable type is more common and is used in fixed-frame screens and the tab-tension kind. Stretchable projection screen material is usually best since there is some tension for a very flat surface. But what type of screen do you choose?
I am recommending Matte White since your images all look great at any angle due to how the light reflects off of it. But you can choose the right screen for you.
Alternatively, you can also use leading projector paint, which saves costs on building a screen frame.
Making A Projector Frame
Now you need a frame for your DIY projector screen material. The kind of frame depends on how and where you are using your screen. Is this for outside use? Will your screen be attached to the ceiling or the wall? If you need it to be stronger you can use metal. If you want something lightweight so that it is easy to move, light wood is your best choice. Some light woods are very strong. Plastic pipe like PVC pipes also works great.
Use screws, nuts, and bolts or brackets to connect your pieces and make your frame. Then add a stiff board to the back for extra support and sturdiness. This can be plywood. Everything that you need, like staple guns, are easily found at the hardware store.
Attach The Projector Screen Fabric
Then you simply attach your DIY screen material to the top and bottom and sides of the frame. If you are using a wood frame, a simple staple gun will do the trick. Much like adding fabric to a piece of furniture, you just staple it in place in the back of the frame, while keeping it stretched tight so there are no wrinkles on the screen surface. It should be a totally flat surface. Make sure that the finished edge on each side looks nice.
Now that you know how to make a projector screen you can see how easy it is. And now you can enjoy your movies in style. Pair this screen with a projector under 1000 or with a YG300 mini portable LED Meer pico, and you’ll be very happy. DIY projector screens are a fun project. There’s no need to buy an expensive HD projector screen or even a cheaper alternative like the screen Pjing portable video screen for watching movies. Just build your own DIY version and kiss movie theaters goodbye. You will get a lot of use out of your home theater projector now that you have a homemade projector screen.
