DIY Outdoor Movie Screen
There's something special about watching films under the Australian night sky. Whether it's a summer evening with mates or a family movie night in the backyard, outdoor cinema creates memories that last. The fresh air, open space, and uniquely Australian experience of making the most of our outdoor lifestyle makes it unforgettable.
Gathering under the stars with snacks and cold drinks, sharing favourite films with family and friends—it's the kind of evening that brings people together. And the best part? Creating your own backyard cinema doesn't require a massive budget. With some basic materials from Bunnings and a bit of weekend DIY effort, you can set up a quality outdoor movie screen right at home.
Inspiration for the night
Materials You'll Need:
White blockout fabric or sheet (minimum 2.4m x 1.5m)
PVC pipes (25mm) or treated pine timber for the frame
Galvanised screws and drill (for timber frame)
PVC elbow joints (for pipe frame)
Octopus straps or bungee cords
Tent pegs for securing
Projector
Bluetooth speaker or soundbar
Weatherproof extension leads
Building Your Screen:
Determine your screen size. A good size is at least 2.4 metres wide by 1.5 metres tall for comfortable viewing.
Build your frame. If using PVC pipes from Bunnings, cut them to length and connect with elbow joints to form a rectangle. For a more permanent setup, use treated pine timber (handles Australian humidity better) and screw pieces together with galvanised brackets.
Secure the fabric. Drape your white sheet over the frame and pull taut. Use bungee cords or octopus straps to secure it firmly—Australian wind will test any loose setup. Secure every 30cm around the edges for even tension.
Position your projector. Set it 3-4 metres back from the screen (check your projector's specs). Ensure it's level with the screen centre and protected from evening dew—even clear nights can damage electronics.
Set up sound. Don't rely on projector speakers outdoors. Position a Bluetooth speaker or soundbar at screen height for better audio quality.
Test before guests arrive. Run a quick film to check picture quality and sound levels whilst you can still make adjustments.
The Malibu Outdoor Recliner - perfect for sitting back and enjoying your movie!
Australian Conditions Tips:
Timing matters. Wait for proper darkness—in summer that means starting around 8:30-9pm. Set up in daylight if it's your first time.
Weather protection. Check the BOM forecast beforehand. Protect electronics from dew and have extra bungee cords ready for windy conditions.
Comfort counts. Light citronella candles for mozzies, have blankets ready for cooler evenings, and ensure seating is genuinely comfortable. While picnic rugs work for kids, proper outdoor recliners make all the difference for extended viewing—the ability to recline and adjust position transforms a novelty into something you'll want to do every weekend.
With a clear space, proper setup, and comfortable seating, you can create memorable outdoor cinema experiences right in your own backyard. Our outdoor recliners are built for exactly this—extended outdoor lounging with weather-resistant construction and integrated covers so you don't have to haul everything inside afterward.
Your backyard cinema awaits!