Basic Carpentry 101: Flats and Jacks
Movie and TV sets are usually made of lightweight modular units we call flats. The standard flat has a 1x3 frame with a luan or other thin, lightweight material skin. Flats are used as walls with openings for doors and windows, etc. The piece above the openings, windows, and doors is called the header. The piece under a window is called the plug. Understanding how to calculate rough openings is a prime skill that requires critical thinking. It is a necessary tool to be able to build sets efficiently. As an IATSE carpenter, you must be well-versed in the average style of set construction consisting of walls made up of flats with openings of all sizes. You must be able to use flats outside of traditional applications and apply them to unique situations.
Standard flat construction
Assembling the frame
Overlaps
Wildings
Headers and plugs
Door and window
Walers
Theatre flats
Details
Language: English
Format: In-person, Virtual
Trainer
Brian Lumley, IATSE Local 873
Location: Toronto, ON
Brian Lumley has taught IATSE 873 members carpentry for 10 years.