How to Make a Green Screen

Last Updated: June 3, 2021

Are you interested in special effects in movies and TV? A green screen is one of the key components for making your actors appear to be somewhere they're not. It's easier to get set up than you might think. Soon, you'll be adventuring on far off planets or deep underwater (at least on the screen!).

Steps

1
Get green non-reflective fabric (felt, fleece) from the Internet or a craft store, or paint fabric green. See "Tips" below for help with the paint formula.
2
Cut the fabric to desired size.

Advertisement
3
Make a frame out of PVC that is slightly bigger, i.e. if fabric is 4'x 6' make frame 5' x 7'.
4
Cut holes in the fabric near its edges every foot.
5
Drill holes on the inside of the PVC frame every foot following pattern used on the fabric.
6
Loop bungee cords or strong rubber bands through holes in both the frame and fabric so that it is taut.
7
Shoot in well and evenly lit room. Enjoy!
8
Finished.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I make it work?

Community Answer

Use a video editing software (such as openshot) to add a chroma key filter, which allows you to replace the green screen with a video etc.
Question

Could a dark blue work as a green screen?

Community Answer

Sadly no, it can't. Chroma keys don't work. Try buying green fabric from the closest craft store.
Question

What is a good app for a green screen using Android?

Community Answer

Kinemaster or Powerdirector. These are free and can be easily downloaded from Google Play.

Warnings

be careful when stretching the bungee cords or rubber bands

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 22 Not Helpful 9
be careful when using drill and wear safety glasses

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 17 Not Helpful 11