How to Set Up the Flex Collapsible China Cube for LED Mats

Quick Answer

Attach the Flex Collapsible China Cube to your 1x1 LED mat using the built-in mounting straps, then pop the frame open and adjust the black blocking panels to control light spill. This modifier gives you soft, even overhead diffusion in seconds.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

1. 1. Attach the Mounting Straps to Your LED Mat: Lay the Flex Collapsible China Cube flat with the diffusion fabric facing up. Place your Flex 1x1 LED mat face-down on the center of the cube. Wrap the built-in adjustable straps around the edges of the mat and cinch them snugly. Make sure the mat is centered so the fabric stretches evenly. Common mistake: Straps that are too loose let the mat sag inside the cube, causing uneven diffusion. Tighten until the mat sits flat against the back of the fabric.
2. 2. Pop the Frame Open: Hold the cube by its outer rim and gently push the center of the frame upward. The spring-steel ring will snap into shape automatically. Let the cube expand fully before releasing. The frame should form a round, taut drum. Checkpoint: If the frame doesn't pop open fully, one of the strap corners may be pinching the wire. Reposition the strap and try again.
3. 3. Adjust the Black Blocking Panels: The China Cube comes with removable black fabric panels that attach via hook-and-loop along the back edge. For a full 360-degree wrap-around light, leave all panels off. To create a more directional beam, attach one or more panels to block light spill in specific directions. Common mistake: Attaching all panels turns the cube into a softbox-like modifier, defeating its omni-directional advantage. Use only the panels you need for your shot.
4. 4. Position and Power On: Mount the assembled cube on a light stand using the integrated mounting straps (or a separate bracket if needed). Angle it overhead or at your subject. Turn on the LED mat and adjust brightness. The 1 1/4-stop diffusion fabric will soften the light evenly across the entire surface. Checkpoint: For overhead interior lighting, position the cube 2-3 feet above the subject. Closer placement creates a softer falloff; farther away increases contrast.
5. 5. Break Down for Storage: To collapse the cube, push the center of the frame down and twist the rim into a figure-eight shape, then fold it into a circle. The cube fits back into the included carry case. Remove the LED mat first if you plan to use it separately. Common mistake: Forcing the frame into the case while it's partially open can damage the spring steel. Always collapse fully before packing.

Product Facts

• Flex Collapsible China Cube for 1' x 1' Mats: Quick-collapse softbox design for unmatched portability. Evenly diffuses Flex 1x1 light output. Premium 1 1/4-stop diffusion fabric. Removable black blocks for precise light control. You get studio-quality diffusion that packs down small enough for location shoots, and the removable blocks let you shape the beam from a full wrap-around glow to a more directional fill.