Dragging out, hanging, and unrolling a 10' roll of photo backdrop paper is so frustrating I seldom take pictures.  After watching some videos on making photo tents I made one using 1/2" PVC pipe, elbows with side elbow fittings, and socket by male thread fittings.  Total cost $18.

I have fabric to hand from the back and extend across the table as a backdrop, but with trips to two different JoAnn Fabrics stores I still haven't found what I think would be effective diffusing fabric to drape across the top and two sides.  Netting, voile, and similar don't diffuse the light from a small Maglite; other fabrics don't seem to let enough light through.

Can anyone tell me what to ask for?

Thanks for the prompt reply.  I have cloth for a backdrop, what I need is diffusing fabric for the sides and top.

If I used cut and paste properly, this link should show a photo tent or shed.  All of the surfaces of the tent or shed are covered with diffusing fabric.

Multimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or

YES YES YES

Don Stephan wrote on Jun 19^th, 2019 at 3:27pm:


You want a lightweight white nylon.  Rip-stop nylon works unless the item you are shooting is very glossy.  Then the grid in the nylon reflects in the item surface.  Don't use a bed sheet.  Light can go through the holes between threads,  but it is not translucent, and it will cause a color shift.  It is also possible that nylon can cause a color shift depending on the manufacturer and manufacturing process, but not usually.  I have had great luck with nylon.  I have used a lot because I make my living as a photographer.  I hope this helps.

Brian