Diffusion frame

[Mike H.]

I want to build my own diffusion frame and I'm looking for the right materials. I've built larger frames out of thick pvc tubing, but I haven't come across anything smaller. Pvc would be perfect because it's really light and you can take it apart for portablility.
Anyone know where I can get small pvc tubing ideal for a smaller diffusion frame? Any other materials come to mind? I need something that I can quickly disassemble and pack away.
Thanks,

[Crafters of Light]

What size are you looking to make the frame(s)?

[Mike H.]

24" x 36" would be a good place to start. But, it would be great to have a modular configuration where I could piece together a large 4'x4' by adding more tubing.

[ggrantly]

Square aluminum tubing will work though by the time you monkey around with a project like this, a Scrim Jim may be a easier, especially since you can buy scrims and reflectors to fit, and it is a modular system. In any event, here goes:

From a metals supply house, purchase 1" x 1/16" square aluminum tubing in the lengths you want for your frame. The 1/16" thickness will be plenty strong enough for a 4x4 frame. For the corner fittings or couplings, buy 1 1/4" x 1/8" thick. The 1" will slide inside of the larger tube. To make corner elbows, take two of the short lengths and have them tig welded at 90deg. The only thing to watch is if the 1 1/4" tube has a seam inside, you will need to file it flat so make the legs short. The tubing can be had seamless, but it will depend on the supplier stock. To finish, drill holes in the elbows and or couplings (accurately so they will be universal) and use sheet metal screws or better yet "quick pins" to hold the frame together.

One other suggestion for the tubing; if you order from a larger supply house like Alaska Copper and Brass, they will have 1" square tube with radiused corners which is nicer on the hands and fabric. See stock #490475. If you know the dimensions you need, they will cut to length and ship UPS. The 6063 alloy is easier to weld, the T-6 alloy is stronger. Either will work fine for what you are doing.

http://www.alaskancopper.com/pdf/al/square_tubing.pdf

http://www.alaskancopper.com/al_pt.php

If you do a good job of this, it will be better than a Scrim Jim, but will be some hassle to do.

Grant

[Crafters of Light]

If you still want PVC, Home Depot or Lowes both carry 1/2" schedule 20 and/or 40 pipe. I think you might have some issues with this size for anything over 36 X 36.

The other choice would be the 3/4" Schedule 40.

For versatility, cut in 12" lengths and use couplers and elbows for a press fit.

One trick a friend had to keep his frames together was threading a long enough piece of bungee type cord through it and then stretch it putting the frame under tension.

[Mike H.]

Thanks for the tips. I'll try Home Depot for the pvc tubes, and if that's a no go I'll look at a Scrim Jim. Matthews Road Rags look really nice too, but pricey :o

[Chris Santucci]

Thanks for the tips. I'll try Home Depot for the pvc tubes, and if that's a no go I'll look at a Scrim Jim. Matthews Road Rags look really nice too, but pricey :o

Electrical conduit would be my first low budget choice. You can get it at Lowe's or The Home Depot along with corner fittings, etc.

PVC contains phthalates, lead, cadmium, and/or organotins, and manufacture or burning of it results in *dioxin* added to our ecosystem. It should be banned. Avoid.

[Mike H.]

I just did a search on pvc. What a bummer...

[RyanT]

What is your limitation in terms of space? Why don't you just buy a 3x3 frame instead of a 4x if that extra foot is the problem...it's really not even that expensive...

[Michael Carter]

I've been a Westcott Scrim Jim user since they first came out - something like 18 years ago?? I still have my first set of frames and fabrics. I've gotten grannies at the fabric store to make me some special rags for it.

Really nice system for up to 6x6. After all those years, the velcro was coming loose from the frames, so I devoted a day with solvents and epoxy and a pop riveter to re-attach them. Another decade ahead!

Not the cheapest thing out there, but damn... well thought out gear that can be configured all sorts of ways. Find a good seamstress to make you fabrics and save some $$.