What are Lenses?

How Lenses work

Designs are engraved into clear acrylic sheets (often called Plexiglass). The design is then cut out to create what we call a lens.

A lens slides into a slot at the top of the stage (box). The stage holds an LED light that shines upward through the lens, highlighting the engraved design.

Lenses come in different shapes and sizes.

Backdrop Lenses

Backdrop lenses span most or all of the width of the stage. They create the main setting for the scene.

Different box sizes use different backdrop sizes, and larger boxes may hold more than one backdrop.

Accent Lenses

Accent lenses are smaller pieces that add detail within the scene.

They are often placed in front of backdrop lenses to add characters, objects, or foreground elements.

Lens Styles

Below are examples of common lens styles.

Dome

The cut line forms an arch across the top.

Panorama

The cut is wider than it is tall, creating a broad scene.

Outline

The cut follows the shape of the design.

Painting the Lenses

Painting the lenses adds depth and definition. Color helps each element stand out instead of blending into the other lenses when left clear.