Articles - Miscellaneous Topics Magic Workshop Ultimate Magic Backdrop Resource - Plans, Tips, and IdeasI was researching magic backdrops for my own use and I thought some of the information I compiled would be useful in a single location. There are various routes you can go and this article should give you a pretty thorough listing of resources and ideas to pick from. It will also cover some of the benefits and drawbacks of using a backdrop.
Please Note: A special thanks goes out to Donald Dunphy for his contributions to this article.
Why Use a Backdrop
- Professional look which translates into more bookings and/or better fees
- Great for photos after the show
- Hide your stuff behind it for cleaner look
- Hides Distracting Mirrors and Other Objects
Disadvantages of Using a Backdrop
- Not Usable Outside in Windy Conditions
- Cost
- One extra thing to lug around
- Extra set-up time and pack-up time
Ready to Go Backdrops
Jeff Jones - Magic Back Drops
These are specifically designed for magicians and a complete ready to-go systems with fabric. Prices range from $500 to $800 depending on size and fabric choices, Sets up in 30 seconds and take down in 1 minute. Comes with carrying bag as well.
Online EEI - Multi-Purpose Backdrop
A very economical no-frills backdrop.
Trade Show Banners and Backdrops
Designed for the trade show industry but can use a magic back drop. Various options available with custom printing available.
- Banner Stands To Go
- Pod Exhibition Systems (UK)
- Instant Pano (Europe)
- Sugar House Banners
- Ah Banner
- AAA Display Group
Spider Back Drop
Themed Backdrops
- Backdrop Fantastic
- Tim Sonefelt Backdrops
- Denny Manufacturing
- Dan Wolfe's Banner Box - Portable Backdrop System
- Backdrops.us
B Screens
These can be used as backdrop but is really an illusion which can produce a person in virtually any setting.
DJ Skirts
Various supplies and backdrops suitable for DJs and other performers
Brick Wall in a Bag
Klamm Magic - Instant Up Portable Backdrop
Assemble or Build Your Own
Speaker Stands
Use 2 speaker stands at the support for your backdrop. These are the ones that are designed to hold speakers high in the air and are used at concerts and by DJs. These stands are designed to hold heavy speakers so will be plenty sturdy for a backdrop. You will need to figure the best way to attached the crosspiece but a trip to the hardware store should yeild many possibilities. A PVC 1" T connecttor may work for this. Next, you need a crosspiece or pole. Try a expandable curtain rod or even an adjustable painters pole. 3/4" metal electrical conduit can also be used and coupled together so that it can taken apart for transport.
PVC
Construct your own frame out of PVC. Not as easy to assemble as other types but has the advantage of being low cost and lightweight. Be sure to use the thicker pipe (Schedule 40) and big enough diameter pipe 1" to 1.5" inch so it is strong enough. Glue as many fittings as possible and secure the rest by drilling a hole through the pipe and fitting and putting in a pin or thin bolt with wingnut for more stability.
Do-It-Your-Self Spider Frame
Wal-Mart sells a portable air-mattress bed which includes a metal spider-like frame. You would need to attach a cloth yourself preferably one that doesn't wrinkle too much. This method is outlined in a book, The Magic of Thinking Creatively, by Barry Mitchell which is available on his website. The bed is available here online at Walmart.com.
Tate the Great Backdrop Free Plans
Check out this simple to construct backdrop plans document on how to build a backdrop for under $100.
MacGyvermagic - Build Your Own Backdrop DVD
I haven't seen the DVD but here's another option for the do-it-your-selfer.
Stan Kramien Article with Backdrop Tips
This article gives some ideas with illustrations for a portable backdrop.
PVC Backdrop and Room Divider
Here's an instructables article which shows how to build a PVC pipe based backdrop.
Backdrop Fabric
Fabric can been quite expensive so look for close-out or other deals wherever possible. Here are some fabric types and resources that may work for you:
Duvetyne
Is a theater curtain type material which is designed to block out all light. Try a web search to find it. You may also try this alternate spelling "Duvateen."
Crushed Velvet
Many people use this as a backdrop material and has the added advantage of not showing wrinkles well.
Lame Fabric
These fabrics have a metallic sheen to them and make a suitable backdrop material.
Other Resources
Backdrop Frames
Instant Pano
This is a spider web type frame that opens in less than 10 seconds, you can just buy the frame or complete with fabric.
Photography Backdrop Frames
There are a number of available frames which are used for backdrops for taking pictures. Some have successfully used these for magic back drops although you may need to consider how to cover the tripod end supports for a finished look since for photography this really isn't a concern. These supports are available from a number of place, try an internet search on Photo Backdrop as a starter. Here's are some but there are many more:
Abbott's Jet Set