Putting down a green screen, especially one with a flat bar, requires a specific technique to avoid damage. Here's a breakdown:
Understanding the Challenge
Unlike green screens with round wire frames, some, like the one described in the provided reference, utilize a 9/16 inch flat bar for rigidity. This is great for keeping the screen taut, but it makes folding and storing the screen more difficult. According to the reference, this flat bar is "a royal pain in the behind if you want to fold it".
Folding Instructions
Since the reference primarily highlights the difficulty of folding a green screen with a flat bar, rather than providing step-by-step instructions, I'll detail a generally accepted method for folding such screens, which involves these steps:
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Preparation:
- Lay the green screen flat on the floor or a large, clean surface.
- Ensure there are no obstacles in the surrounding area.
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First Fold:
- Grasp the top and bottom edges of the green screen.
- Gently bend the frame inward to form a large, oval shape. This will be difficult with a flat bar, and you need to make sure you are bending it in the correct direction; bending the opposite direction can cause damage
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Second Fold:
- Continue to carefully bend the frame inward, further compressing it. The flat bar may require more force and finesse than a round frame.
- You're aiming to create a shape similar to two overlapping circles or an "8".
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Final Compression:
- Once in this compressed form, apply gentle pressure to further fold the screen into a smaller, more manageable size.
- You may need to slightly twist the edges to align and compress the folded screen properly, being mindful of the flat bar.
- The video in the provided link (as implied by the title) may offer a good guide for folding these types of screens.
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Securing:
- Secure the folded screen with an elastic band or a carrying case. This keeps it compact for storage.
Key Points
- Gentle Handling: Avoid forcing the frame, as this can damage the flat bar or the screen fabric.
- Correct Direction: Be sure you are bending the screen in the correct direction - forcing the bend the wrong direction could damage the frame
- Patience: Folding a flat bar green screen can take practice.
- Storage: Store the folded screen in a safe, dry location.
- Practice: It will likely take a few tries to be able to do this smoothly.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Lay screen flat |
| 2 | Bend into oval / large circle |
| 3 | Bend into figure 8 |
| 4 | Compress and secure |
