How to Build a Flat Pt 2

[@anthonyrosas1998]

Finally, a video on the correct way to build a theatrical Hollywood flat. Only difference in what we do is use a medium crown stapler only for the joints, no screws, and staple diagonally on the lauan to get a little more bite on the grain. Well done, thank you!

[@SceneryFarm]

Cheers Anthony- I appreciate the kind words! I typically use a 7/16" crown (in our world sometimes called a wide crown, which I know as a standard crown) stapler when I am building for shows. That shop (school shop) did not have a standard crown stapler when I filmed, so I used the way I was first taught how to build a flat so the students could have the video as a resource. I had not thought of diagonally with the 1/4" crown for the skins... It makes good sense. I might just become a convert :)

[@anthonyrosas1998]

@@SceneryFarm Love to chat with you, can I DM you?

[@laaxe]

"In Hollywood" (sure you're tired of that), we use three styles/studs, then use a technique called "swing-blocking", where your toggles are cut at 22-7/8 for the outer toggles, & 23-1/4 for inside toggles for all 6' wide or larger flats. Swing-blocking for big flats is a different lesson. With the Luan skin, you've done it right with the plate, but you also need to take equal care stapling the 1st outer style/stud, never starting in the middle. Use a chalk-line for layout. Quicker & accurate.

[@laurencokias9209]

Im in a stagecraft class at my school, and for our final we need to make a flat, and i was wondering what kind of glue you use. And also if there is any other tools that a high schooler would be able to use/find. It would be very helpful. Thanks!

[@2Collinscorner]

I’m going to be building 12 of these for an interactive haunt and I will need several of them to be faced on both sides. Is there any reason this design could have Lauan on both sides? Also, any recommendations on a way to make them easily assembled/disassembled on a night by night basis? Thanks in advance.

[@2Collinscorner]

My initial thought was some sort of pin system similar to the kind that hold doors on the frame.

[@SceneryFarm]

Hi Jerry That is totally doable. There are a few thoughts you should consider: a double sided flat becomes a torsion box and will not flex. Ensure it is made on a completely flat bench as it will potato chip and stay that way if not. I would suggest coffin locks as one way to have them easily strike-able or bolts into minted threaded plates- pls see my parallel riser videos for info on them- all the best of luck!

[@SceneryFarm]

@@2Collinscorner the loose pin hinges would totally work! See rose brand as a supplier for theatrical ones

[@ChrisNuccio]

Scott is right. You need another stud at 24" on center and 22 7/8 toggles at 2', 4' and 6' on center. Then you're starting to look like a tv flat.

[@melg279]

what is your helpers name pls i need to know

[@SceneryFarm]

Do you happen to know Owais? That would be fun!

[@jamesmckernan2781]

We all have our styles, thanks for your comment. Having built thousands of flats I appreciate your comments and I did not really understand them at the same time. Please look me up at York if you wish to share that bit of advice without the 500 character limit :)

[@jamesmckernan2781]

Wood glue, either white or yellow will work. Cheers J