Scrim Jim Question

[Strouty]

I recently stumbled across a great deal on a large (6'x6') scrim jim set (frame, several fabrics, clamps, etc) and decided to go for it. I had a couple questions if anyone happens to own one.

1. Can you use standard 'rags' from places like canvasgrip on the scrim jim? I realize that might defeat the whole point of the scrim jim's velcro siding, but it would be nice to be able to have access to non-westcott rags when needed, especially given the cost difference.

2. Can you support a 6x6 overhead with just one clamp? The plan was to throw it on a combo stand with some sand bags.

3. Going along with #2, is there an easy way to hand boom it overhead? The idea would be to have mobile overhead diffusion for 'walk and talk' type shots.

Thanks!

 

[Erik Naso]

I recently stumbled across a great deal on a large (6'x6') scrim jim set (frame, several fabrics, clamps, etc) and decided to go for it. I had a couple questions if anyone happens to own one.

1. Can you use standard 'rags' from places like canvasgrip on the scrim jim? I realize that might defeat the whole point of the scrim jim's velcro siding, but it would be nice to be able to have access to non-westcott rags when needed, especially given the cost difference.

2. Can you support a 6x6 overhead with just one clamp? The plan was to throw it on a combo stand with some sand bags.

3. Going along with #2, is there an easy way to hand boom it overhead? The idea would be to have mobile overhead diffusion for 'walk and talk' type shots.

Thanks!

1. I haven't tried it but if you sue the bungee type with the grommets it could work.

2. I dont recommend that. It would be unstable and flap around with a slight breeze. Safety is important

3. I use a smaller 4x4 to do this and it works but you cant really walk with it shade over head very easily.

I used a 4x4 and a reflector in these spots.

https://vimeo.com/47132125

This spot is with a larger overhead scrim jim. Blog post here.

https://vimeo.com/62464367

 

[David W. Jones]

Can't help you with the Scrim Jim stuff, but I do own a bunch of Canvasgrip stuff including frames, and it's all pretty nice for the little coin.

 

[Michael Carter]

I recently stumbled across a great deal on a large (6'x6') scrim jim set (frame, several fabrics, clamps, etc) and decided to go for it. I had a couple questions if anyone happens to own one.

1. Can you use standard 'rags' from places like canvasgrip on the scrim jim? I realize that might defeat the whole point of the scrim jim's velcro siding, but it would be nice to be able to have access to non-westcott rags when needed, especially given the cost difference.

2. Can you support a 6x6 overhead with just one clamp? The plan was to throw it on a combo stand with some sand bags.

3. Going along with #2, is there an easy way to hand boom it overhead? The idea would be to have mobile overhead diffusion for 'walk and talk' type shots.

Thanks!

You can make 3 sizes of frame with your set - only the smallest (sort of 36" square) will work on a single stand.

I did a walk-shot years ago, we just used two c-stand booms. The rectangular size (like 3' x 6') is often your best bet for non-moving overheads though. Less fabric to act as a sail but good coverage.

I doubt standard rags with bungees will fit properly, since the westscott frames aren't straight 4x4, 6x6, etc.

That said, buy a few yards of loop-side velcro fabric and find someone who can sew. I have strip lights, green screens, etc made for my system. Your local fabric store usually keeps lists of ladies who sew curtains and things. They'll look at a sample rag and say "this is easy". You can get all sorts of sizes and fabrics for cheap.

Add "Scrim Jim" to your eBay saved searches with alerts. Every month it seems someone is clearing out fabrics, new or used. I've gotten large diffusions for like $60.

My first frame pieces are close to 20 years old and still used every week. it's a great system. When the velcro eventually pulls loose from the frame, drill out the rivets, get some epoxy and a pop riveter, sand the old glue down a bit, and replace the velcro. You can do this in an afternoon.

Can't help you with the Scrim Jim stuff, but I do own a bunch of Canvasgrip stuff including frames, and it's all pretty nice for the little coin.

Canvas makes great stuff, but the Westscott is a very different system than the standard hollywood frames & rags. Very lightweight, faster setup, much easier for one or two guys to deal with. The interlocking parts make it easy to pack and give you 4 different sizes. You can buy extra straights & corners and really expand your frame options, getting, say. a 6x6 overhead, a 6x6 white reflector, and a 3x6 silver reflector one day, and a different setup the next. Really well thought out and long lasting.