Ever feel like your dungeon mastering would be easier with a screen designed just for you? Many Game Masters struggle with off-the-shelf screens missing their favorite rules, tables, or personal style. Crafting a custom DM screen isn’t just a creative project—it can make your sessions smoother and more fun.
This article will guide you through making a DM screen tailored to your needs, covering materials, design tips, useful references, and creative upgrades. Let’s make your perfect command center!
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Custom DM Screens: How to Make a Unique DM Screen for Your Table
Every Dungeon Master (DM) knows the value of keeping secrets and keeping things organized during a Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) session. A DM screen is essential—it hides your notes, NPC stats, and roll results from prying player eyes. But did you know that making your own custom DM screen can be both easy and hugely rewarding? Let’s delve into how you can build a one-of-a-kind, practical, and stylish DM screen that matches your game and personality.
Why Build a Custom DM Screen?
A DM screen isn’t just a barrier. With a custom screen, you’ll enjoy these advantages:
- Organization: Keep cheat sheets, maps, and quick-reference info easy to see.
- Personalization: Show off your personal style or set the mood with art or embellishments.
- Functionality: Add features like magnets, dry-erase panels, or dice towers.
- Immersion: Enhance the atmosphere with thematic designs or engravings.
Standard screens are useful, but making your own means you get exactly what you need for your campaigns.
Key Steps to Making a Custom DM Screen
Creating your ideal DM screen can be as simple or complex as you wish. Here’s a straightforward process to guide you from start to finish.
1. Decide on Your Priorities
Ask yourself:
- What do I want my screen to do? (Just hide notes, or hold items and references?)
- What materials do I prefer? (Wood, cardboard, acrylic, etc.)
- Is portability important?
- Do I want it to match a specific theme or campaign?
2. Choose Materials
You have a variety of options, ranging in price, function, and look:
- Cardboard: Inexpensive and easy to work with—perfect for first-timers or simple customization.
- Wood: For an elegant, sturdy, and impressive table presence.
- Acrylic/Plexiglass: Modern, durable, and can be used with dry-erase markers.
- Magnetic Boards: Allow for modular panels and attachments.
- Binders or Presentation Folders: Ultra-simple, great for travel or quick builds.
3. Design the Layout
Determine how many panels you want. Most screens use three or four panels that stand upright. Consider:
- Panel Size: Should be tall and wide enough to shield your notes but not block your view of players.
- Orientation: Landscape screens provide a lower profile, portrait screens offer more hiding space.
- Number of Panels: Four panels give more surface area; three work well for smaller tables.
Sketch what you want on each side:
- Player Side: Eye-catching artwork, campaign symbols, or nothing at all.
- DM Side: Reference charts, initiative trackers, quick rules, or custom inserts.
4. Gather Reference Information
Print out or prepare whatever you consult most often, such as:
- Conditions and status effects
- Random encounter tables
- Rules for skill checks or combat
- Custom notes, campaign maps, or session agendas
Attach these to the DM-facing sides for quick access.
5. Construction
For a DIY Cardboard Screen:
- Take three or four sturdy cardboard panels (like from cereal boxes or shipping boxes).
- Cut them to a uniform size (generally 8×11 inches or larger).
- Tape or hinge them together with duct tape, gaffer tape, or even strong cloth to form a folding screen.
- Decorate the player-facing side with your chosen artwork (printouts, drawings, or even fabric).
- Affix your reference sheets to the DM side (with tape, glue, or removable adhesive).
For a Wooden or Acrylic Screen:
- Cut wooden panels to desired size, or source acrylic sheets.
- Sand and stain wood for aesthetics, or leave acrylic clear for dry-erase use.
- Connect panels with small hinges (from hardware stores) or with magnetic clasps for easy setup and storage.
- For extra flair, engrave symbols, names, or campaign logos.
- Use sticky tack or magnetic clips to attach reference material to your side. For acrylic, you can slide in printed sheets or use dry-erase markers directly.
For Magnetic or Modular Screens:
- Glue thin metal sheets to the panels or use pre-made whiteboards.
- Use magnets to hold different reference cards or tiles in place.
- Swap out information quickly between sessions depending on campaign needs.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Laminate Your References: Laminate charts or rules for durability and easy clean-up if you make notes with dry-erase markers.
- Use Sheet Protectors: Slide printable material into plastic sleeves so you can change them anytime.
- Try Velcro or Magnets: This lets you attach initiative trackers, maps, or card sleeves to your screen.
- Test the Angle: Ensure your screen stands stable and doesn’t tip over easily.
- Think Portability: If you game at different locations, use lightweight materials and make sure your screen folds flat.
- Customize for Your Game: Add notes or quick reference sheets specifically for rules or homebrew systems you use.
Benefits of a Custom DM Screen
You’ll notice immediate perks from taking the time to craft your screen:
- Speed: Faster reference means less time hunting through books.
- Confidence: Hiding your prep, die rolls, and surprises lets you control the narrative.
- Immersion: Players love thematic or beautiful screens that blend with your setting.
- Adaptability: Make adjustments as campaigns change or your needs evolve.
Challenges and Solutions
Every project comes with potential obstacles—but none you can’t handle.
- Material Cost: Wood and acrylic can be pricey. Cardboard or upcycled materials work great if you’re on a budget.
- Crafting Tools: Not everyone has saws or drills at home. Try local maker spaces or stick to simple materials.
- Complex Designs: Start simple and add complexity later. Modular designs let you expand over time.
- Shipping/Storage: If ordering custom wooden screens, compare shipping costs or look for local craftsmen to save.
Cost Considerations and Shipping Tips
Building your DM screen can be affordable—or a serious investment, depending on your approach.
- DIY Options: With cardboard, tape, and printouts, you can build a screen for under $10.
- Basic Craft Store Screens: Simple folding presentation boards or foam core can be had for as little as $5-15.
- Premium Custom Screens: Handcrafted wooden or engraved acrylic options may range from $50 to $300 or more.
- Shipping: Heavy wooden screens can incur high shipping costs, especially if coming from overseas. Save by purchasing local, choosing lighter materials, or even DIYing with hardware-store supplies.
- Upcycling: Repurpose old binders, folders, or packaging for free materials.
Remember, the most important part isn’t the price tag—it’s making a screen that fits your style and needs.
Extra Features to Consider
Want to go above and beyond? Here are some ideas to elevate your DM screen:
- Dice Towers: Attach a dice tower to your screen for secret rolls.
- Dry-Erase Panels: Track initiative or HP easily with dry-erase surfaces.
- Clip Holders: Hang pens, cards, or even snacks.
- Artwork Inserts: Make the player side display changing images for different settings or campaigns.
- Integrated Lighting: Add LED strips for a dramatic effect during night sessions.
Wrapping Up
A custom DM screen is more than just a utility—it’s a reflection of your play style and creativity. Whether you keep it simple with cardboard or invest in a handcrafted wooden masterpiece, personalizing your DM screen can make every game night feel special. The process is flexible: don’t be afraid to start basic and improve as you go. Most importantly, have fun and design a screen that helps you bring your worlds to life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What materials are best for making a custom DM screen?
The best material depends on your goals and budget. Cardboard is easy and cheap; wood offers durability and aesthetics; acrylic allows for dry-erase notes and a modern look. Consider mixing materials for function and style.
How tall and wide should a DM screen be?
Most DM screens are about 8-12 inches tall and 12-36 inches wide (across three or four panels). It should be tall enough to hide papers, but not so tall you can’t see players or the table.
Can I add or swap out reference sheets later?
Absolutely! Use clear sheet protectors, magnetic attachments, or Velcro to swap out cheat sheets, campaign notes, or quick-reference tables as your needs change.
How do I keep my DM screen from falling over?
Ensure stable hinges, use heavier base material, or add non-slip feet. For lightweight screens, position items (like dice bags) at the base to provide extra support.
Are premade custom DM screens worth it?
If you’re looking for a showpiece or want metal, hardwood, or engraved features, premade screens from artisans can be stunning and functional. However, they are pricier and may have high shipping costs—DIY screens offer great quality and personalization for much less.
Making a custom DM screen is a creative journey. With a little planning, you can build the perfect command center for your adventures—crafted by you, for your players, and your epic stories.