15 HOW TO OUTDOORCREATECINEMAAN

Going to an open-air movie is a popular summer tradition, but have you ever thought about setting up your own at home?

It doesn’t take much technical know-how, and – aside from the initial outlay on a projector – it’s a really affordable night ‘out’. Here’s how…

■ First, let your neighbours know in advance. If they’ve had warning (or even an invite), any noise should be forgiven.

■ Pick a spot that’s dry and sheltered from the wind. Make sure you can sit far enough back from where you plan your screen to be – you don’t want to get a neck ache from staring upwards. Also, avoid pitching up in a spot where streetlights might reflect against the screen.

■ Next, you’ll need a wireless projector. When shopping for one, you’ll see they all have lumen measurements. The higher the lumen count, the easier it is to see the projected image in bright conditions. In a garden after dark, we recommend at least 3000 lumens so you can have the full movie-theatre experience.

■ You’ll need something to play your film on, too – this could be a DVD or Bluray player, or a streaming device like a Google Chromecast, which you’ll need to connect to your projector through its HDMI port.

■ You can create a cinema screen by pegging a white sheet to your washing line, or string it up between two trees. It’s worth weighing it down at the bottom so that it doesn’t move around in the breeze.

■ If your guests are sitting on the lawn, lay a groundsheet on the grass to protect against any moisture, then layer up with plenty of comfy blankets, cushions and beanbags. Alternatively, set out chairs, benches or even hammocks to relax on. Make sure everyone has a good view, and keep a few blankets aside in case it gets colder later on.

IDEAL HOME TIP Do a test run before guests arrive and check the forecast ahead of time, too