How to make large windows
Printed From: Community Theater Green Room
Category: Producing Theater
Forum Name: Set Design and Construction
Forum Discription: Post your questions or suggestions about designing or building a set here.
URL: http://www.communitytheater.org/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=5030
Printed Date: 11/23/24 at 5:16pm Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 8.05 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: How to make large windows
Posted By: Kim L.
Subject: How to make large windows
Date Posted: 4/08/11 at 8:31am
I am in a pinch to make (2) 4' x 8' windows for a show in a few weeks. I have had to change my design several times to accommodate various issues and this is my final design (which will be constructed next weekend at a set build).
The windows will go on top of platforms. So, to get them to stand up, I will run pipes vertically on each side and then bore holes in the platform for them to slide into. Lightweight windows will make my bracing idea work better (I hope and pray).
So, I can figure out how to build the outer frame. But, what stumps me are the "window panes." What wood do I use? And, how do I affix them to the outer rectangular frame? Do I need a (what is that thing called?) a router to make a groove in the rectangular frame to slide the cross pieces (to make the panes) in? I like the thickness of the cross pieces in the lattice that Home Depot sells. Do they sell something else that is that thin that can mimic the cross pieces of window pane? Or, should I try not to be fancy and just affix some 1x2 pieces to the back of the frame. Does that look good from the audience?
Helllllppp! I feel so behind with everything.
Kim
------------- Kim
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Replies:
Posted By: gelcat
Date Posted: 4/08/11 at 10:57am
I think it all depends on how close your audience is, and how realistic is the rest of the set. Keep it simple, make the mechanics happen, then take a look at it it place, and see if you need to add more dimensionality with paint or other materials attached to your basic frame.
------------- www.actorsguildonline.org
Actors Guild of Parkersburg
Parkersburg, WV
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Posted By: Kim L.
Date Posted: 4/08/11 at 11:06am
I probably didn't explain it precisely. I want to make the windows open and not painted. I think I found the lattice boards on the Home Depot website. But, if anyone has suggestions about how to affix the lattice boards to the large rectangular frame, that would be great. Do I use a router to create a channel in the frame to slide in the lattice boards? Or should I just screw them to the back of the frame? Would that look ok? Thanks.
------------- Kim
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Posted By: Majicwrench
Date Posted: 4/08/11 at 12:42pm
Simple is ALWAYS better. I would start by just screwing em into the back of the frame. Should just take a couple minutes. Go for it.
Less is more....keep it simple.
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Posted By: didj1028
Date Posted: 4/18/11 at 1:20pm
I agree with Majicwrench. simple is always better. audiences are generally forgiving and the stress of trying to do things in a complicated way just isn't worth it. If your windows don't have to open and close and we never see the backs of them, go easy.
------------- Geoff Ehrendreich
Waterloo Community Playhouse
Waterloo IA
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