Best Projector Screen Alternatives [15 DIY Ideas]

Written by: Kristy Roger
Last Updated: October 15, 2023

In the world of home theaters and outdoor movie nights, not everyone has access to a traditional projector screen.

But that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your favourite films on a big screen. From household items to natural surfaces, there’s a plethora of inventive Projector Screen alternatives that can transform your viewing experience.

Whether you’re on a budget, in a unique setting, or simply feeling creative, these projector screen alternatives might be just what you’re looking for.

Dive in as we explore some of the best and most unexpected ways to showcase your movies without selecting a Projector screen.

Let the show begin!

I recommend using the Table of Contents to quickly access the information you need.

My article is designed to cater to home cinema users of all levels, from Beginners to Advanced enthusiasts.

Painted Walls

Using a painted wall as a projector screen is a smart and cheap choice. Here’s how to do it:

Pick a Smooth Wall: Find a wall in your home that’s flat and smooth. If it has bumps, you might want to smooth it out first.

Clean the Wall: Before painting, make sure the wall is clean. Wipe away any dirt or marks.

Choose Your Paint: White paint works best for this. But there’s also special paint just for projectors that you can buy.

Paint the Wall: Use a roller to put the paint on the wall. Make sure it’s even. You should paint it more than once.

Set Up Your Projector: Place your projector in front of the wall. Make sure the picture looks straight and clear.

Control the Light: It’s best to watch in a dark room. Close the curtains or blinds to block out light.

Take Care of the Wall: Keep the wall clean. If it gets dirty, wipe it gently with a cloth.

So, if you don’t want to buy a screen, a painted wall works great for watching movies or shows with a projector!

Blackout Cloth

Blackout cloth is a great choice for a projector screen. Here’s why and how to use it:

What is Blackout Cloth?: It’s a thick fabric that people use for curtains to block light.

Why Use It?: Blackout cloth gives a clear and bright picture because it reflects light well.

Get the Cloth: You can buy blackout clothes at fabric stores or online.

Set It Up: Stretch the cloth tight and hang it on a wall or frame. Make sure there are no wrinkles.

Place Your Projector: Put your projector in front of the cloth. Adjust it so the picture looks big and clear.

Enjoy: Now, you’re ready to watch movies or shows! The blackout cloth will make the picture look great.

Care for the Cloth: If the cloth gets dirty, clean it gently. Don’t scrub too hard.

So, if you’re looking for a cheap and easy projector screen, blackout cloth is a top choice!

Spandex or Stretch Fabric

Spandex or stretch fabric is an exciting choice when you need a projector screen. What’s spandex? Well, it’s a fabric that’s super stretchy. People often use it to make clothes, but it’s great for projectors too.

Why should you think about using spandex? One big reason is that it stretches easily. This means when you set it up, you can pull it really tight. That gives you a smooth screen without any bumps or wrinkles. And a smooth screen means your movies or shows will look their best.

Setting up a spandex screen is pretty simple. First, you’ll need to get some spandex. You can find it at fabric stores or even online. Once you have your fabric, stretch it out and hang it up to ceiling. You can put it on a wall or a frame. Just make sure it’s as smooth as you can get it. Then, place your projector in front of the fabric. Adjust it until the picture looks just right.

Taking care of your spandex screen is easy too. If it gets a little dirty, just wash it gently. Remember to let it dry completely before you use it again.

In the end, if you’re looking for a projector screen that’s easy to set up and looks great, spandex could be just what you need!

Shower Curtains

Shower curtains can be a fun and smart choice for a projector screen. What’s a shower curtain? It’s a curtain you hang in the bathroom to keep water from splashing out.

Why are shower curtains good for this? They’re big and wide, which is perfect for big pictures. Plus, they’re smooth, so the movie looks clear and sharp. And the best part? They’re pretty cheap!

Setting up is a breeze. First, find a white or light-coloured shower curtain. You can get one from a store or maybe you have an extra one at home. Next, hang it up on a wall or between two poles. Make sure you stretch it out so there are no wrinkles. Now, place your projector in front of the curtain and adjust it until the picture looks awesome.

Taking care of your curtain screen is simple. If it gets dirty, just wipe it with a damp cloth. If it gets really dirty, you can even wash it.

So, if you want a big screen without spending a lot of money, give shower curtains a try. You might be surprised at how great they work!

For those who enjoy outdoor screenings, dealing with bugs can be a hassle. Check out our tips on How to Keep Bugs Off from Projector Screen for a bug-free experience

Foam Board or Insulation Sheeting

Foam board or insulation sheeting can be a cool choice for a projector screen. First, let’s talk about what they are. Foam board is a stiff board made of foam. Insulation sheeting is a material people use to keep their homes warm.

Why are they good for projectors? They’re flat and smooth. This means your movies will look clear and bright. Plus, they’re easy to move around and set up wherever you want.

Here’s how you use them. First, get a big piece of foam board or insulation sheeting. You can find them at craft stores or home improvement stores. Next, set it up against a wall or on a stand. Make sure it’s straight and steady. Now, put your projector in front of it and play your movie. Adjust the projector until the picture looks just right.

Taking care of your foam board or insulation screen is easy. If it gets dusty, just wipe it off with a cloth. If it gets a mark or stain, you can clean it with a little soap and water.

So, if you’re looking for a simple and cheap screen for your projector, foam board or insulation sheeting might be perfect for you!

Plexiglass or Acrylic Sheets

Plexiglass or acrylic sheets can be a neat choice for a projector screen. So, what are they? Plexiglass and acrylic sheets are clear, plastic-like sheets. People use them for lots of things, like windows or picture frames.

Why are they cool for projectors? They’re clear and smooth. This means you can even put the projector behind them and project from the back. This is called “rear projection.” It makes your movie night feel like magic!

Here’s how to set it up. First, get a big piece of plexiglass or an acrylic sheet. You can find them at craft stores or big hardware stores. Next, stand it up where you want to watch. You might need a friend to help because they can be a bit heavy. Make sure it’s safe and won’t fall over. Now, put your projector in front or behind it and play your movie. Move the projector until the picture looks super clear.

Taking care of your plexiglass or acrylic screen is simple. If it gets fingerprints or smudges, just wipe it with a soft cloth. If it gets really dirty, you can clean it with some soap and water.

So, if you want a clear and cool screen for your projector, plexiglass or acrylic sheets are a great pick!

Gift Wrapping Paper

Gift wrapping paper can be a fun choice for a projector screen. You know gift wrapping paper, right? It’s the colorful paper you use to wrap presents. But here’s a cool idea: you can also use it to watch movies!

Why is gift-wrapping paper good for this? It’s big and wide, which is great for showing big pictures. And if you pick a light color or white paper, your movies will look bright and clear.

Here’s how you do it. First, find a big roll of gift wrapping paper. It’s best to use one that’s plain or has a very simple pattern. Next, roll it out and hang it up on a wall. Use tape or pins to keep it in place. Make sure it’s smooth with no wrinkles. Now, put your projector in front of the paper and play your movie. Adjust the projector until the picture looks perfect.

Taking care of your gift-wrapping paper screen is easy. If it gets a tear or wrinkle, you can just replace it with a new piece. And the best part? It’s super cheap!

So, if you’re looking for a quick and fun screen for your projector, give gift wrapping paper a try. It’s a creative way to watch your favorite movies!

Accidents happen, and projector screens can get ripped. Learn how to fix them with our guide on How to Fix Ripped Projector Screen.

Bed Sheets

Bed sheets can be a great choice for a projector screen. You know bed sheets, right? They’re the big pieces of fabric you put on a bed. But guess what? You can also use them to watch movies!

Why are bed sheets good for this? They’re big, so you can see a large picture. If you pick a white or light-colored sheet, your movies will look bright and clear.

Here’s how you set it up. First, find a clean bed sheet. The bigger, the better! Next, hang it up on a wall or between two trees if you’re outside. Use some clips or pins to keep it in place. Pull it tight so there are no wrinkles. Now, place your projector in front of the sheet and start your movie. Move the projector until the picture looks just right.

Taking care of your bed sheet screen is simple. If it gets dirty, just wash it like you normally would. Once it’s dry, you can use it again.

So, if you want a big screen without spending a lot of money, bed sheets are a smart pick. They make movie time fun and easy!

Door

Using a door as a projector screen is a neat trick. Everyone has doors in their home, right? Well, you can use one to show movies!

Why use a door? Most doors are big and flat. That’s perfect for showing clear movies. If your door is white or a light color, that’s even better.

Here’s how to set it up. Pick a door in your house. It could be any door, like the one to your room or a closet. Make sure it’s clean. Give it a quick wipe to get rid of dust. Then, put your projector in front of the door. Play a movie and adjust the projector so the picture looks great.

Keeping your door screen clean is a breeze. If you see any marks or handprints, just wipe them off. The cool part? You’re using something you already have!

So, next time you want to watch a movie, remember your door. It’s a fun and easy way to show big, clear pictures!

Tyvek or House Wrap

Tyvek or house wrap can be a smart choice for a projector screen. What’s Tyvek? It’s a strong material that people use to wrap houses to protect them.

Why use Tyvek? It’s big and smooth. This means your movies will look clear and nice. Plus, it’s tough, so it won’t tear easily.

Here’s how to set it up. First, get a piece of Tyvek or house wrap. You can find it at big stores that sell building stuff. Next, hang it up on a wall or between two poles. Pull it tight so it’s smooth. Now, put your projector in front of it and play your movie. Adjust the projector so the picture looks perfect.

Taking care of your Tyvek screen is simple. If it gets dirty, just wipe it with a cloth. If it gets really dirty, you can wash it with water and let it dry.

So, if you want a tough and clear screen for your projector, Tyvek or house wrap is a great pick. It makes movie time fun and easy!

Is your screen sagging or loose? Discover effective techniques for tightening your projector screen.

DIY Paint Mixes

DIY paint mixes can be a creative choice for a projector screen. What’s a DIY paint mix? It’s when you mix different paints together to make your own special blend. People often do this to get the perfect color or finish. And the cool part? You can use this mix to create a wall that’s perfect for watching movies!

Why use DIY paint mixes? By mixing your own paints, you can get the right amount of shine and color. This means your movies will look bright and clear. Plus, it’s fun to make your own mix!

Here’s how to do it. First, decide what you want. Do you want a shiny screen or a matte one? Once you know, get the paints you need. You can find them at craft or paint stores. Next, mix the paints together in a big bucket. Stir well until it’s all blended. Now, paint your wall with your special mix. Use a roller to get it smooth. Let it dry before you watch any movies.

Setting up is easy. Once the paint is dry, put your projector in front of the wall. Adjust it so the picture looks great.

Taking care of your painted screen is simple. If it gets dirty, just wipe it gently. Don’t scrub too hard or you might mess up the paint.

So, if you like doing things yourself and want a special screen for your projector, try making a DIY paint mix. It’s a fun way to get the perfect movie-watching wall!

Portable Whiteboards

Portable whiteboards can be a handy choice for a projector screen. What’s a portable whiteboard? It’s a white, smooth board you can move around. People often use them to write or draw with markers.

Why use portable whiteboards? They’re flat and shiny. This means your movies or presenations will look bright and clear. And since they’re portable, you can move them to any room you want.

Here’s how to set it up. First, find a good spot to place your whiteboard. Make sure it stands steady and won’t fall over. Clean the board so it’s free from any marker marks or smudges. Now, put your projector in front of the whiteboard and play your movie. Move the projector until the picture looks just right.

Taking care of your whiteboard screen is easy. If you write on it or if it gets dirty, just wipe it off with a whiteboard eraser or a damp cloth. Always keep it clean for the best movie experience.

So, if you want a screen that’s easy to move and makes your movies look great, a portable whiteboard is a top choice. It’s perfect for movie nights in different rooms!

Curtains

Using curtains as a projector screen might sound a bit unusual, but it can actually work in a pinch. We all have curtains at home, right? They’re meant to give privacy or block out sunlight. But if you think outside the box, they can double up as a makeshift screen for your projector.

Now, let’s be honest. Curtains aren’t the best option out there. A proper projector screen or even some of the other alternatives might give you a clearer image. But if you’re in a situation where you just want to quickly set something up for a casual movie night, a curtain can do the trick.

To make it work, choose a curtain that’s as plain and light-colored as possible. Busy patterns might distract from your movie. Hang it up and smooth out any wrinkles. Then, set up your projector, making sure the image fits well on the curtain.

Remember, this isn’t a perfect solution. The image might not be as sharp, and the colors might be a bit off. But it’s a quick fix that’s easy to set up and take down. And when you’re done, you can just toss the curtain in the wash if it gets dirty.

In short, while curtains aren’t the ideal choice for a projector screen, they can be a handy backup option when you’re in a bind. Just manage your expectations and enjoy the show!

Tarp

Using a tarp as a projector screen? It’s not the best idea out there, but it can work if you’re in a pinch. Tarps are made for covering stuff up, not for watching movies. But if you’re trying to set up an impromptu outdoor movie night and don’t have anything else on hand, a tarp might just do the trick.

First things first, don’t expect cinema-quality. The material and texture of a tarp can make the movie look a bit off. If you have a light-colored tarp, that’s your best bet. Dark tarps will mess with the colors and brightness.

To set it up, hang the tarp and pull it tight. You don’t want any wrinkles or sagging. Then, place your projector in front and play around with the settings. It might take a bit to get the picture looking decent.

And a heads-up: if it’s windy, your tarp might flap around, which can be annoying. So, make sure to secure it well.

In short, while a tarp isn’t ideal for projecting movies, it’s better than nothing. Just know it’s a makeshift solution and enjoy the experience for what it is!

Flat Rock Surface

Projecting onto a flat rock surface? It’s definitely not your typical choice, but let’s be honest, it can create a unique viewing experience, especially if you’re out in nature. Flat rock surfaces, like those you might find at a campsite or in a garden, can serve as an impromptu screen if you’re feeling adventurous.

Now, straight up, a rock isn’t going to give you the same clarity as a proper projector screen. The natural texture and color of the rock will influence the image quality. If the rock is uneven or has a lot of color variations, it might distort the movie visuals.

To make the most of it, find the flattest and smoothest rock surface you can. The larger and more even the surface, the better your projection will be. Once you’ve picked your spot, set up your projector at a distance where the image fits well on the rock. You might need to fiddle with the focus and settings a bit to get the best possible picture.

A word of caution: be mindful of the environment. If you’re in a natural setting, make sure you’re not disturbing any wildlife or ecosystems.

In conclusion, while a flat rock surface isn’t the go-to choice for movie night, it can offer a unique and rustic viewing experience. It’s all about setting the right mood and embracing the great outdoors. Just keep your expectations in check and enjoy the ambiance!

Final Thoughts on Best Projector Screen Alternatives

When it comes to watching movies, sure, a traditional projector screen is ideal. But let’s be real: not everyone has one, and sometimes we just have to make do.

The alternatives we’ve discussed might not give you that cinema-perfect clarity, but they can get the job done in a pinch.

Whether you’re trying to save some cash, working with limited space, or just in a situation where you need a quick fix, there’s usually a way to improvise. It’s all about being resourceful and making the best of what you’ve got.

So, the next time you’re itching for a movie night and don’t have the perfect setup, just remember: it’s the experience and the company that truly matter. Roll the film!

Author of this Post:

Kristy Roger

Home Cinema Consultant & Tech Enthusiast

Holding a background in Industrial and Electrical Technology from the University of Alberta, Kristy has spent 5+ years consulting on home theater products at a top electronics firm. As a certified Technical Professional with Lean Six Sigma credentials, Kristy expertise ranges from projector nuances to hands-on experience with leading models. Kristy have been sharing her knowledge online for two years, blending professional insights with personal experiences from her own home cinema setup. Off the screen, She is a dedicated mom to Jerry, Ryan, and our two pups, Cuddle and Paw.