If you are interested in a DIY vinyl projector screen, there are several things you will need to know before using this projector screen material. These include the difference between supported and unsupported vinyl, the best uses for each, and how to lay vinyl on a flat surface. This is important in order to create the best possible projector screen for your home theater projector.
What is the difference between supported and non-supported vinyl?
The difference between supported and unsupported vinyl is that supported vinyl has a textile backing which prevents it from wrinkling and allows it to hang flat without any tension. This is very important to get the best possible image from your DIY projection screen. You want to have the flattest screen possible. Without this tension you will lose planarity with the projection screen, and this will ruin your projector image.
What is the best use for unsupported vinyl on a projection screen?
The best use for unsupported vinyl is in a situation where you will be creating a fixed projector screen. The reason for this is that there will always be tension on the screen. Without tension, this vinyl is not useful for projections because, as stated above, flatness is key. While you may not be able to see them with the projector off, the ripples will be more visible with the projector on. Unsupported vinyl is sometimes used on portable displays that have a built-in mechanism to provide tension.
What type of projection screen should use compatible vinyl?
Compatible vinyl is the most suitable type for portable projector screens. The reason for this is that it doesn’t require tension to lay flat, so even in less than ideal situations you can still get a good image. Compatible vinyl is also better for portable projection screens because it is usually more durable than non-compatible vinyl. Supported vinyl is considerably more expensive than unsupported vinyl, but it is a good option if you will not be using the screen in a situation where it cannot be permanently tensioned.
What should I keep in mind when using vinyl?
If you are going to lay vinyl on a flat surface, unsupported vinyl is the recommended option, and the best way to do this is to stretch the vinyl around the back of the surface and bond it to the back. Placing the screen across the front can make it difficult to remove waves. Compatible vinyl can also be used for this purpose, but it is considerably more difficult to fit without rippling, and the high cost of compatible vinyl does not make it worthwhile to make your own projector screen in this situation.