Recent content by JohnSB

  1. J

    Converting to LED

    If there is constant monitering of the manufacturing process, yes they can make good stuff. IF. But there are plenty of other reasons to avoid Chinese made products if possible. The environment, political, supporting US companies etc. I'll pay more for products made here or elsewere if I have...
  2. J

    Converting to LED

    There's nothing wrong with the Chinese stuff *EXCEPT* it's made in China. Notorious for stolen technology, questionable materials, workmanship, and general quality. Unless you are buying from a local company that WILL absolutely back and service the product, I'd avoid it like the plague...
  3. J

    Any good videos on set construction?

    Sounds nice. We have an average school stage at best, can't fly much of anything. I'd love to have the kids be able to do more, but as it is now, I have to keep a few from using paint brushes like crayons. I'm going to try and recruit more from the wood working classes and art students next...
  4. J

    Any good videos on set construction?

    It's a high school. We have a thespian troupe, but the "Drama club" is unfunded, meaning the part time choir and theatre director is not paid supplemental for drama club meetings. But we do get to put on two plays every year. I really don't end up with any scraps, I have to sqeeze blood out...
  5. J

    Failed Building Inspection on Set

    Good lord you must be old!! LOL You could probably get relatively clear lumber then too, much better quality.
  6. J

    Failed Building Inspection on Set

    The 12" centers would only be for 1/2" material, some of it like OSB won't last long, especially with a big or multiple actors. It's easier to throw some 2x's in a vehicle than a 4x8 sheet. I can get a few 2x's inside my 4dr Jeep, and I can get 10' 2x's in the van, but not a 4x8 sheet. That...
  7. J

    Failed Building Inspection on Set

    I absolutely hate CDX and OSB unless they are for underlayment. Way too much chipping and splinters. You can however skim coat it with drywall mud if it's not a walked on surface or moved much.
  8. J

    Failed Building Inspection on Set

    I use 2x6 for diagonal stresses. In terms of weight, you're only talking about 15 pounds, not a big deal. With 24" centers, you're just about locked into having 3/4" sheeting which is more spendy and heavier. Going one size up in a 2x is nowhere near "way over-built". Somebody else's kids...
  9. J

    Any good videos on set construction?

    I'm about the only one with theatre experience, the tools, the time (limited), and the set construction experience. Plus I'm willing to do it. I just have to find any extra advantage and resource I can.
  10. J

    Failed Building Inspection on Set

    We don't have a shop at all, we try to do cutting outside as much as possible, and assembly on stage. A 2x6 frame is not overbuilt at all, the same size deck would be 2x8 minimum. And the 12" centers is only for 1/2" sheet, 5/8-3/4" would be 16" centers. I'd much rather slightly over engineer...
  11. J

    Any good videos on set construction?

    Yeah, I don't have that kind of time. I'd be lucky to have 6 hrs on a Saturday. Most kids do 3 or 4 activities, and that's not counting what they do outside of school. There just isn't the time. I'm hoping for a couple of kids that can work without supervision. I am going to get with the Art...
  12. J

    masonite woes

    I was looking into getting 1/4" maso for a floor covering, and discovered I could get it from the manufacturer direct. The few yards that had it, it was in poor condition.
  13. J

    Should I get a new saw? How much do y'all use your table saws?

    If you have the money and the space, go for it. A better saw is a safer saw. If you have to baby it when ripping 2x lumber, you're risking kickback and serious stress on the motor. You'll probably use it more if it works better than the old one too.
  14. J

    Failed Building Inspection on Set

    Uh, you just have to work smart. I built a 27x36' shed all by myself, you just have to plan your moves. Put the framing in place before you put on the deck.
  15. J

    Any good videos on set construction?

    I work as the tech director as a supplemental position, which basically means I do it for a little beer money. I want them to have at least a few skills before we start, I just don't have the time to teach them all, and I can't afford to keep redoing set pieces, and the money for materials is...
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