Making Your Own Outdoor Movie Theater

At a minimum, you will need a projector and screen. Most likely though you'll need a few other odds-and-ends and may even desire some things to make your outdoor home theater the envy of the block. Think about these:

- projector
- extension cord
- projector screen
- table
- chairs
- outdoor sound system
- outdoor buffet

Projector screens can be purchased for as little as ~$100 to multiple hundreds of dollars. I put one together for about $60. What's more, if mine gets dirty then I can just fold it up and toss it into the washer. Here's what I used:

- A king-sized white flat sheet
- Two curtain rods
- Needle and thread
- String

Why a king-sized sheet? It's all a matter of sizing. We hang our screen off of the trim surrounding our windows. Because of the size of some windows, our screen had to be rather long to assure ease of projection and viewing ... driving us to the length of a king-sized sheet. A smaller sized sheet is preferable but make that choice after considering where you intend to place your projector.

The sheet should be laid flat on the floor with the extended rods in position. Fold the ends over the rods, grab needle & thread, and get to work. Don't worry, once this part is finished it is all downhill. Be sure to leave a little room when sewing the space for your curtain rods so that they can be easily removed for washing.

Our window trims are ideal for hanging the projector using string. If the exterior of your house is different then you'll need to figure out alternatives. Small hooks could be discretely placed around windows, in wooden trim, or even on a playset (which is one of the spots we use).

String or small linked chains can be attached to either end of the top curtain rod. This is a matter of how fancy and attractive you want your screen to be. String is the ultimate in utilitarianism as well as the cheapest alternative. Chain though may be found for a small additional expense and really ups the fashion score.

Pick a spot that is exposed to as little ambient light (eg, street lights, exterior lights) as possible. Hang or setup your screen being mindful of any winds that may be blowing. If you made your own screen and added a curtain rod to the bottom then hanging it off of your house should provide it with good protection from all but strong winds. Tripod-mounted screens can be a little trickier and should be placed in locations sheltered from as much wind as possible.

Set your stand (we use a small plastic table) about where you want the projector. Be careful to keep it away from any path family may use - don't want any accidents. Also be sure to set it upon flat ground or otherwise stable surface.

Now setup the projector. You will probably need an extension cord. Turn it on and work on getting the picture straight. If the image is too small then carefully move the projector away from the screen; if it is too large then carefully move it closer to the screen. Each repositioning will likely require another round of focusing and straightening.

Grab your chairs, drinks, snacks, and blankets. Settle down and enjoy the show!