DIY Madame Leota Effect with INVISIBLE PROJECTOR
by VanOaksProps
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What this video covers
VanOaksProps walks through a DIY build of the iconic Madame Leota floating-head crystal ball effect, inspired by the Haunted Mansion attraction. The key innovation is routing the projection through a small angled mirror inside the globe so the projector is hidden rather than sitting visibly in front of the crystal ball. The build combines a 3D-printed stand, a translucent face form, a clear acrylic globe, and a compact short-throw projector. The result closely mirrors the in-park presentation of the effect.
Key takeaways
- ◆A small acrylic mirror inside the globe redirects the projector beam, keeping the projector completely out of sight
- ◆A translucent face form inside the globe serves as the projection surface for the floating face illusion
- ◆The crystal ball stand is 3D-printed from a free downloadable model provided by the creator
- ◆A compact projector (AAXA P6 Ultimate, provided free by the sponsor) is key to fitting the hidden setup
- ◆The overall build is more approachable than it appears, requiring mostly off-the-shelf hardware and 3D-printed parts
Who this is for
Halloween enthusiasts and Haunted Mansion fans who want a convincing, clean-looking Madame Leota crystal ball effect without an exposed projector cluttering the display.
Tools mentioned
- • 3D printer
- • ball head mount
Materials mentioned
- • 16-inch clear acrylic globe
- • translucent face form
- • acrylic mirror sheet
- • ball head mounts
- • 1/4-20 bolts and nuts and washers
- • AAXA P6 Ultimate projector
- • 3D printed crystal ball stand
⚠ Safety notes
Ensure the projector has adequate ventilation inside the enclosed globe assembly to prevent overheating.
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