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.
Why Use a China Cube Over a Standard Softbox?
A China cube creates a round, omnidirectional light source that mimics natural overhead window light. Unlike a rectangular softbox, the collapsible design packs flat and sets up instantly without speed rings or umbrella rods. The Flex Collapsible China Cube is purpose-built for Westcott's 1x1 Flex LED mats, so there's no adapter hunting.
What You'll Need
You need a Westcott Flex 1x1 LED mat (sold separately) and the Flex Collapsible China Cube itself. The cube includes built-in mounting straps and a carry case. No tools or additional hardware are required.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
- 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.
Flex Collapsible China Cube for 1' x 1' Mats