Last updated on November 28th, 2023 at 01:05 pm
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Ready to ditch the printing and taping to join the world of projector sewing? The best ultra-short throw projector for sewing is right around the corner.
First, let’s define what an ultra-short throw projector is and why it may be right for your space. Ultra-short throw projectors are designed to create a large image size in a short distance. They are typically placed only 1 foot away from the cutting surface. If you don’t have the ceiling height for a mini projector, then you may be looking at a short throw or ultra-short throw projector.
If you are just starting out on your journey of finding a projector, I recommend taking this short quiz to find out the which type of sewing projector may be right for you.
*As an eBay and Amazon partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase using the links below.
Epson Ultra-Short Throw 470 and above
Epson UST projectors are the most often used by sewists. Models 470 and above have HDMI ports for easy connections to computers.
*Use “Projector Sewing” in a listing by Good4u-me, in a message to the seller and bid $15off the listed price to get it for $15 off!
Hitachi Ultra Short Throw
Hitachi ultra short throw projectors are another good choice for sewing. However, some models have a vent on the “bottom” of the projector. This means it will need to be place on a wire shelf, Hitachi table mount, or mounted so it can “breathe”.
SMART Ultra-short throw
Usually known for the “SMART” boards used in classrooms. All ultra-short projectors will work for sewing needs! The UX80 has the lowest throw ratio.
Why Choose an UST Projector for Sewing?
Sewists choose to use ultra-short throw projectors for three main reasons: they don’t have the ceiling height for a mini projector, they need a large image size, or they cannot mount a projector.
Height and Distance
UST projectors typically only need 0”-24” of vertical space to create an image size suitable for sewing. What a larger image size? Then, just raise your projector up a few inches. Keep in mind, that UST projectors do often have an offset. The vertical offset measures where the bottom of the image starts in comparison to the center of the lens.
There is usually about 12” of “dead space” from the where the projector is placed to the start of the image. Use Projector Central to search for the offset and details on the projector you are looking at.
Large Image Size
Larger image sizes are great for sewists that typically make larger patterns such as adult and plus size clothing. While these can be cut with smaller projection image sizes, you need to do shifting or cut in stages. It is not hard to cut a pattern larger than your image size, but it can be a hinderance if you are constantly having to do it. UST create a large image size that is practically “unlimited” for our needs. Need a larger image size? Just raise the projector up a few inches. The only issue you may run into with very large image sizes is having to add margins to patterns. That is easily done in a few clicks using PDF Stitcher.
No Mounting Needed
Don’t want to mount your projector? Then, an UST projector may be the way to go! These can be placed on the cutting table, shelf, or cart near the cutting table. Check out the Gallery to see how people setup their UST projectors. There are many options for “mounting” or setting up an UST.
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VIVO Mobile TV Display Stand for 13 to 42… | $54.99 $49.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
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Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look for in an Ultra Short Throw?
All ultra-short throw projectors will work for sewing. With that said, some things will make the setup work easier than others.
Look for a design that will allow you to place the projector up on the side. We point the projector at a cutting table which is contrary to how these projectors were originally designed. Some ultra-short throws have a curved bottom, bump on the bottoms, or a fan where they need to stand for sewing. There are many DIY solutions, or mounting options that work around these issues. But it is good to be aware of these in the model of UST you are looking at.
Cons of an UST Projector for Sewing
There are many reasons to get an UST projector, but let’s look at a few reasons why you may not want to use and UST.
Weight
Ultra-short throw projectors are often bigger and heavier. Many that are used in the sewing community are around 15”x15” and weigh around 12 pounds.
Calibration
Any time a projector is moved, you will need to re-calibrate it. This can be a downside if you are planning to only setup the projector when sewing and then putting it away. There are a few ways around this such as using a rolling cart, rolling TV stand, or using table clamp mount. Of course, if you are putting the projector in a permanent spot, you will not need to re-calibrate each time you use it.
Distortion
Since Ultra-short throw projectors are closer to the side of the cutting table, instead of above, there is a greater possibility of distortion in the image. Small bumps in the fabric or even thicker fabric can distort the image. Many users of UST projectors prefer to not cut patterns on the fold. Any “folded” pattern pieces can be unfolded in Inkscape or similar programs.
Expensive New
Ultra-short throw projectors are some of the most expensive projectors when purchased new. That is why most sewists get ultra-short throw projector used a second-hand market such as Facebook marketplace and eBay.
Offset
I discussed offset a little bit in the “Height and Distance” section. All UST projectors that I have seen have an offset. This means that if your cutting table is up against the wall and you put your projector on the long side of the table, then the top of your image will not start for about 12″.
For skinny tables against the wall, this means the image will not be on the table. While you can move the projector to the short side of the table, you will not be able to “rotate” the projected image. In this case, you’d be better off with a mounted short throw such as the Optoma ML1050ST.
What to Look for When Buying Used
Lamp Hours
Most UST projectors run on bulb technology. This means that eventually their bulb will “burn out”. The good news is that you can purchase a new bulb. But it is a good idea to take note how many bulb-life hours are left. Bulbs are often good for 2,000-6,000 hours, but it is best to look up the specs on your particular projector on Projector Central.
New bulbs can be purchased and run anywhere between $50 USD to $150 USD.
Model and Specs
When looking at projectors, it is important to look up the specs for the model that you are looking at. Take note where fans/vents are, connection types, and any physically features that may hinder how you plan to use it.
For example:
Epson 470 and above have HDMI ports, older models use VGA and you will need to add drivers and adapters to your computer to use.
Epson 450-465 have a bump on the bottom which require a DIY solution to make work. There are plans linked in this article on an adjustable shelf than some have used.
Epson 410-430 need a little more space to get a large image (about 2 feet).
“W” in Epson models means widescreen. And “I” means interactive. Neither is a must have for sewing.
Some Hitachi models have fans on the bottom and need to be mounted so the fan is not obstructed.
*Remotes are nice to have, but not necessary since the projector will be within reach.
*Interactive pens are fun to let the kids use, but often don’t have precision needed for making pattern adjustments.
Reputable Seller
It’s always a good idea to look at the customer reviews for the seller. Bulb hours can be changed on a projector. However, most people have had a good experience buying on eBay.
Price + Shipping
When you are comparing projectors, take note if shipping is included in the price or if it is extra. Many sellers will ship to other countries, but shipping can get costly. The newer projectors will be a higher price and older projectors are usually cheaper. However, keep in mind the differences for connection in older models. You also may need to install drivers onto your computer when using older models.
Return Policy
Many sellers offer a 30-day return policy. Check what the return policy is. This will give you a chance to inspect the projector when it arrives and a return window if it doesn’t work out for you!
Ready to Buy an Ultra-Short Throw Projector for Sewing?
Below are a few different links to search results in eBay. These will get you started with what to look for in an ultra-short throw projector. I have also included some new Ultra-short throw projectors from Amazon.
Use ProjectorCentral.com to look up the specs about the specific model you are looking at. Again, ALL ultra-short throw projectors should work for sewing purposes. Epson are among the most common to find secondhand. However, you can often find Hitachi or Smart projectors for cheaper.
Best UST Projector Recommendations
Epson projectors are often labeled as the best ultra-short throw projector for sewing. They are easy to find second-hand because many schools and businesses use them and then periodically upgrade. Make sure that the Epson projector that you are looking is an ultra-short throw. It should have a throw ratio below 0.5. The best Epson projectors to get are model numbers 470 and above because they do not have a bump on the bottom and they have an HDMI port. However, lower models can be found cheaper and can work just as well!
All Hitachi UST projectors will work, but many models, such as Hitachi CP-TW2503, have a vent where we stand them up. The work around this is to put them on a metal shelf with slats or to mount them with a monitor or TV monitor. This will allow the projector to “breathe”.
SMART and NEC are other models of UST projector that many people use. All UST throws work for sewing. It is best to use a model with a native resolution of at least 720p (the second number can be any number between 720-1080). Higher resolution such as 1080p and 4k is not “better” for our needs. In fact, 1080p projectors will often create a smaller image size than the 720p projectors.
Often people looking for an UST projector, could use a short throw projector instead. If you don’t mind mounting a projector, it is worth looking at the world of short throw projectors. I’ve reviewed the best short throw projectors for sewing.
Here are a few NEW projectors available on Amazon.
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Epson Used Ultra-Short Throws on eBay
*As an eBay and Amazon partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase using the links below.
Used Ultra-Short Throws Projectors from eBay
Hitachi Used Ultra-Short Throws
