Everything looks tenfold better when it's on a projector. Whether it is movies, games, or watching your favorite family vacation album, a projector will work the best for all of them.
But what if you want to create our own DIY projector? The good news is that you can make a portable projector yourself in no time.
There are times when you are in the mood to have some fun on a big screen. However, you just can’t rush into the market to get a projector ASAP. In such a stance, a DIY projector is just what you need. This article will explain everything you need to know about how to prepare a homemade projector.
Not only that, but by the end, you will also get some suggestions about our favorite portable projector. So, make sure to read this article until the end.
How Do DIY Projectors Work?
The technology in a DIY projector is very similar to that used in a traditional projector. The light source in a DIY projector is usually from the screen of your mobile phone which is projected towards a magnifying glass. This magnifying glass, in return; projects a whole image onto a wall.
What Things Do I Need To Make A DIY Projector?
To make a DIY or portable projector, first, you need to gather all the necessary equipment. Here are some of the most important tools you will need for your homemade projector.
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Shoebox made of cardboard
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Magnifying glass
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Black matte paper
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Adhesive tape
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Scissors or blade
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Mirror
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Pencil
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Smartphone
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Ruler
Note: For selecting the shoe box, ensure you are not going for a size that is too wide. If you opt for a shoe box wider than your Smartphone, the light will not go reflect in a streamlined manner. Instead, it will spread onto the sidelines.
How to Make a Projector? 6-Step Guide
To make a homemade projector, here is a 6 step guide that is very easy to follow. Let's start with step one:
Step 1: Prepare the Boxing
First of all, cut off the side where you are going to stick the lens. Make sure to cut the side of the shoebox that is shorter in length. Doing so will make it easier for you to adjust the lens and move it further or closer to the projected image. With this setup, you will also be able to adjust the focus more quickly.
Next, take out the black matter paper and stick it into the interior of the shoe box. But make sure the paper is thick enough to not let any light pass through it. Now, using adhesive tape, cover the inside of the box with matte paper.
This ensures better image quality by preventing light from dispersing or reflecting. You can also use black paint to color the paper if you don't have thick black paper.
Step 2: Fix the Lens with Support
Remember the short side of the shoe box we cut during the first step? Now we have to trace the shape of the magnifying glass and use a blade or a scissor to cut through that shape. Also, ensure that the cut-out is a bit smaller than the actual magnifier so it can form a right fit.
For better image quality, ensure your magnifier has decent glass quality. A better quality of the glass will give you a more sharp and crisp video quality.
Next, you need to build a support stand for your magnifying glass. You can do this easily by cutting a strip of black paper. Cut it long enough to cover all the edges of the box, so your lens fits perfectly inside. Now you have got a box with your lens inside. With this setting, your projector will remain stable even if you move it here and there.
Step 3: Place the Mirror
Now, this is one most important step because if it is not placed properly, you will not be able to get the perfect picture. So, all you have to do to rectify the image from left to right; for that, you have to position the mirror between the Smartphone and the lens.
Adjust it at a 45-degree angle on the back of the box (opposite the lens). You can have some help from a protractor to determine the correct angle. If not, you can acquire a rough estimate by glancing down at the mirror and ensuring the lens is visible.
Step 4: Adjust the Lid
Now measure your Smartphone’s screen and cut out the lid according to its length. Also, avoid cutting the lid just the size of your Smartphone as it will just fall into the box. Position the Smartphone just above the mirror.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Your homemade portable projector is ready. Add final touches by removing some excess paper cuts, if any, as it is a craft project and would need some final touches. Check for any leaks or holes and cover them using the black matte paper.
Step 6: Enjoy The Final Show!
Point the projector towards an empty white wall and enjoy your favorite movie or TV show. If the image isn't sharp, you can adjust it by focusing on the lens. Close the curtains, turn off the lights, and grab some popcorn to enjoy the time of your life!
Bonus! 3 Best Cheap Projectors for Home Theater, Outdoor, and Gaming
If you are not in the mood to make a DIY projector and want to purchase one without spending much, here are the 3 best cheap projectors for home theater by Vankyo.
Vankyo leisure 495w
If you are looking for the best home theater projector, then the Vankyo Leisure 495w can be the best option. It is perfect for those of you who are fond of watching a series on a projector.
Vankyo Leisure 470 Pro
The Vankyo Leisure 470 pro is the best outdoor projector out there because of its compact size. If you are thinking of arranging a movie night while camping outdoors, then this can be the right pick.
Vankyo Leisure E30
The Vankyo Leisure E30 is just the best gaming projector of all. It provides some of the best results, and the setup is also easier to adjust. Because of its results, it fits the gaming of 2022 best budget projectors.
Final Words
Using a magnifying box and cardboard box, you can just have a homemade projector in no time. Remember you can also go for the projectors like Vankyo Leisure if you don’t have much time to create one yourself. So what are you waiting for? Grab a shoebox now and start crafting your homemade projector now. Or head over to Vankyo's store and make a purchase!
