Tools and Materials
Make Movie Night Even Better
Elevate movie nights with an outdoor movie screen — one you can build on your own. By assembling a wood frame, attaching a tarp as a screen and adding a few cozy elements like throw blankets and pillows, you have a fun way to enjoy big-screen entertainment in your own backyard. Follow the steps below to get started building a screen to watch all your favorite films outside.
How To Build a DIY Movie Projector Screen
Step 1: Choose the Ideal Location
Look for a space that’s large enough to accommodate your screen and viewers comfortably. The area of your yard should be dark enough at night and sheltered from ambient light and wind, if possible.
Step 2: Determine the Screen Size
Consider the available space in your backyard and the distance to where the projector can throw a clear image — the ideal size of your screen depends on your viewing distance. To determine the recommended width of your screen, multiply your viewing distance by 1.5. For example, if you’re sitting 10 feet away, the screen width should be 15 feet. You’ll use the size of your screen to help determine how far apart the posts need to be, and how tall, as well.
A width-to-height ratio of 16:9 is a common size for a DIY screen, matching the widescreen format used by most movies.
Step 3: Construct the Frame
Outdoor structures do best with pressure-treated wood — wood that’s already been treated to withstand weather conditions. You can also add a stain or paint for additional protection.
The frame requires four main boards and additional ones for support:
- Two 7-foot vertical boards
- Two 11-foot horizontal boards
- Four diagonal braces for additional support
Before cutting the boards, accurately measure and mark the boards to the size of your screen. Use a circular saw to cut each board to length. You’ll also cut 45-degree angles at the ends for clean corner joints. Line up the mitered edges and screw the boards together at the corners. Attach the boards together with flat corner braces. These braces will add stability and prevent the frame from sagging or twisting over time. Be sure to wear protective gear, like safety glasses and work gloves, while cutting your boards.
Step 4: Attach the Screen
With the frame laying down, use a staple gun to attach the tarp to the frame, securing the edge of the tarp to the back of the frame. Be sure the tarp is taut and wrinkle-free. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safely using the staple gun.
A white sheet, curtain, drop cloth or other light-colored fabric are good alternatives to use for a screen.
Step 5: Test the Projector and Make Adjustments
Set up the projector at the appropriate distance and project an image onto the screen. Make any necessary adjustments, like moving the frame or creating more tension on the tarp to smooth out any creases that might distort the image.
Step 6: Anchor the Screen Frame
Now that everything is in place, you can take additional measures to ensure the freestanding frame won’t fall over. Secure the frame with stakes and ropes, positioning the stakes at an angle, leaning away from the screen frame. The angled placement provides better support and prevents the frame from tipping over. Hammer the stakes into the ground and tie off straps or rope from the stakes to the frame for stability.
Sandbags can add extra stability at the base of your frame.
Finishing Up Your Project
Once your movie screen is assembled, it’s time to add seating and any finishing touches to fully set the scene. Patio furniture and folding camping chairs keep viewers off the ground. Kids might enjoy stretching out on a blanket or laying on pillows and poufs. For chillier nights, keep throw blankets within reach and consider other elements like patio heaters and fire pits for warmth. Punch up the ambience with lanterns and outdoor string lights — just make sure to position them so they won’t interfere with the movie screen. After that, it’s time for the best part: settling in to enjoy the feature film.