Slating in Film: Clapperboard Guide & Techniques

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Slating in film, a crucial process managed meticulously by the 2nd Assistant Camera (2nd AC), establishes a vital synchronization point between picture and sound. The clapperboard itself, a simple yet indispensable tool, displays key information such as scene number and take number, facilitating efficient organization during post-production. Incorrect slating procedures can lead to significant delays and increased costs within the post-production workflow at facilities like Pinewood Studios, where streamlined editing processes are paramount. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of slating in film, encompassing both the technical aspects of clapperboard operation and the organizational protocols it supports, is essential for all film production personnel.

Slating, often an overlooked aspect of filmmaking, forms a cornerstone of efficient and successful film and video productions. Its function transcends simple record-keeping; it’s the linchpin connecting the chaotic energy of the set to the meticulous precision of post-production.

Slating’s core purpose resides in its ability to synchronize audio and video elements, enabling streamlined editing and assembly.

Defining Slating and Its Purpose

At its essence, slating is the act of visually and aurally marking the beginning (or end) of a take during film or video production. This is typically achieved using a clapperboard (also known as a slate), displaying key information about the shot. The primary goal is to provide a clear and identifiable sync point for editors to perfectly align audio and video tracks.

The clap of the sticks provides a sharp, distinct sound spike that is easy to locate on the audio waveform, corresponding precisely with the visual closure of the sticks on the film or video.

The Multi-faceted Benefits of Accurate Slating

Accurate slating delivers a cascade of benefits that extend far beyond mere synchronization.

Properly slated footage simplifies the organization of rushes, drastically reducing the time spent sifting through hours of raw footage. With clear visual identifiers, editors can quickly locate specific takes and scenes.

Furthermore, it enhances communication between departments. When scene and take numbers are accurately displayed, everyone from the director to the visual effects team can easily reference specific shots, minimizing errors and miscommunications.

Ultimately, accurate slating translates to reduced post-production costs and a smoother, more efficient workflow. It is an essential practice for productions of all sizes.

Single-System vs. Double-System Recording: Tailoring the Slate

The slating process varies depending on whether a production employs single-system or double-system recording.

In single-system recording, audio is recorded directly onto the camera alongside the video. While convenient, it offers less flexibility in post-production. Slating remains essential for visual identification and organization.

With double-system recording, audio is recorded separately using dedicated audio equipment. This method offers superior audio quality and control, but it necessitates accurate slating for synchronization. The clapperboard becomes the bridge linking the independently captured audio and video.

Slating, often an overlooked aspect of filmmaking, forms a cornerstone of efficient and successful film and video productions. Its function transcends simple record-keeping; it’s the linchpin connecting the chaotic energy of the set to the meticulous precision of post-production.
Slating’s core purpose resides in its ability to synchronize audio and video, providing a definitive reference point in the often-complex tapestry of cinematic creation. To truly appreciate its significance, we must deconstruct the anatomy of the slate itself, understanding the role each component plays in this critical process.

Deconstructing the Slate: Understanding the Core Components

At its heart, the clapperboard is more than just a prop; it’s a meticulously designed tool for organization and synchronization. Understanding its components is fundamental to grasping its vital role in filmmaking. From the robust clapperboard to the precisely engineered sticks, each element contributes to creating a clear and unambiguous visual and auditory cue.

The Clapperboard (Slate): A Canvas of Essential Information

The clapperboard, often simply called the "slate," serves as the primary surface for conveying crucial production information. Traditionally constructed from wood, although acrylic and digital variants exist, it’s designed for durability and clarity.
The dimensions of the slate are carefully considered, ensuring it is large enough to display information legibly while remaining manageable for the camera assistant.

The information displayed on the slate is not arbitrary; it’s a carefully curated set of data points, each serving a specific purpose.

Decoding the Fields: Production Title, Scene, Take, and More

A standard slate typically includes the following fields:

• Production Title: Identifies the project, preventing confusion across multiple productions.

• Scene: Designates the specific scene being shot, crucial for maintaining narrative order.

• Take: Indicates the number of times a particular scene has been filmed, allowing for easy selection of the best performance.

• Director: Credits the director, providing a reference point for creative decisions.

• Camera Operator: Identifies the camera operator, acknowledging their contribution to the visual aspects of the shot.

• Date: Records the date of the filming, aiding in organization and tracking progress.

Each field contributes to the overall organization of the production, ensuring that footage can be easily identified and cataloged.

The Art of Legibility: Handwriting and Formatting

The information inscribed on the slate is only valuable if it can be easily read. Therefore, clear handwriting and consistent formatting are paramount. Standardized abbreviations and numbering systems should be employed to minimize ambiguity.
The use of a consistent marker or pen is also crucial, ensuring that the writing is bold and easily visible under various lighting conditions.

The Clapper Sticks (Sticks or Bats): Striking Precision

The clapper sticks, also known as bats, are arguably the most iconic part of the slate. Typically made of wood, and painted with alternating black and white stripes (for clear visual distinction), they are hinged at the top of the board.

Their primary function is to create a sharp, distinct "clap" sound, which serves as the audio marker for synchronization.
The precise construction of the sticks is critical; they must strike together cleanly to produce a crisp, easily identifiable sound.

The Sync Point: Where Vision and Sound Converge

The moment the clapper sticks meet represents the sync point – the precise instant when the visual and audio tracks are aligned. This seemingly simple action is the cornerstone of the entire slating process.

The editor uses this point as a reference to perfectly synchronize the video and audio, ensuring that what the audience sees and hears is in perfect alignment.
Without a clear and unambiguous sync point, the task of synchronizing audio and video becomes significantly more complex and time-consuming.
The sync point represents the culmination of all the elements of the slate, transforming it from a simple information board into a powerful tool for cinematic precision.

[Slating, often an overlooked aspect of filmmaking, forms a cornerstone of efficient and successful film and video productions. Its function transcends simple record-keeping; it’s the linchpin connecting the chaotic energy of the set to the meticulous precision of post-production.

Slating’s core purpose resides in its ability to synchronize audio and video, streamline organization, and foster a fluid post-production journey. Effective slating hinges on the mastery of specific techniques that ensure clarity, audibility, and visibility. Let’s explore these core techniques that will enable you to elevate your film or video production quality.]

Mastering the Clap: Essential Slating Techniques

The true efficacy of slating lies not just in possessing the equipment but in the precise execution of the technique. This involves a combination of physical actions, verbal communication, and an understanding of the information being conveyed. Let’s delve into the fundamental slating techniques that will ensure seamless integration between the set and the editing room.

Head Slate: Setting the Stage

The head slate, or front slate, is the standard practice of slating at the beginning of a take. Its function is to clearly identify the upcoming scene and take, providing a visual and auditory reference point for synchronization.

The procedure is as follows:

1. The clapperboard should be positioned in front of the camera, ensuring all relevant information is legible and well-lit.
2. The camera operator confirms they are rolling.
3. The sound recordist confirms that sound is being recorded.
4. The 1st AC (Assistant Camera) clearly states the scene and take number ("Scene 24, Take 1").
5. The clapper sticks are then sharply clapped together.
6. The clapperboard is swiftly moved out of the frame, allowing the action to begin.

Tail Slate: A Safety Net

The tail slate, or end slate, becomes crucial when the head slate is compromised – perhaps obscured, forgotten, or in situations where capturing the beginning of a scene is impossible. This process involves slating at the end of a take.

The process is fairly similar to the Head Slate, but instead of beginning the take with it, the slate takes place at the end. The clapperboard must be held upside down to indicate that it’s a tail slate.

The Slate Call: Precision in Pronunciation

The slate call is the verbal announcement of the information displayed on the clapperboard. Clarity is paramount.

The 1st AC must articulate the scene number, take number, and any other relevant information (such as camera roll number) in a clear, concise, and loud manner. Hesitation, mumbling, or mispronunciation can lead to confusion and wasted time in post-production.

Consistency is also key: stick to a standardized format for each slate call to avoid ambiguity.

Perfecting Slate Technique: Visually and Audibly

Beyond the information displayed, the physical act of "clapping" the slate is an art form in itself. The clapperboard should be held firmly, with the sticks aligned to ensure a sharp, distinct clap.

Visibility: Ensure the entire clapperboard is within the camera’s frame, well-lit, and in focus.

Audibility: The clap must be loud and clear, providing a distinct spike in the audio waveform for easy identification during editing.

Holding the slate steady is important. Wobbling can make the information difficult to read.

MOS: Silencing the Slate

MOS, derived from "Mit Out Sound" (or "Motor Only Shot"), indicates a take where no sound is recorded. It is crucial to clearly designate MOS shots to prevent confusion during post-production.

To slate an MOS shot, the clapperboard is held with the sticks open and stationary, or the hand is placed between the sticks while announcing "MOS" or writing "MOS" on the slate itself. This visual cue signals to the editor that the audio from that take is irrelevant.

Modern Slating: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency

[[Slating, often an overlooked aspect of filmmaking, forms a cornerstone of efficient and successful film and video productions. Its function transcends simple record-keeping; it’s the linchpin connecting the chaotic energy of the set to the meticulous precision of post-production.

Slating’s core purpose resides in its ability to synchronize audio a…]]

While the fundamental principles of slating remain unchanged, technology has revolutionized the tools and techniques used to achieve accurate synchronization and efficient workflow. From the introduction of timecode to the rise of digital slates, these advancements have significantly impacted the modern filmmaking landscape.

The Ubiquity of Timecode

Timecode is a numerical address assigned to each frame of video and audio. It acts as a precise reference point, allowing editors to quickly and accurately align different sources. This is especially critical in multi-camera setups or when audio is recorded separately.

Timecode is typically represented in the format HH:MM:SS:FF (Hours:Minutes:Seconds:Frames). Its adoption has streamlined post-production workflows by providing a shared language between all recorded media.

Jam Sync: Achieving Perfect Harmony

The process of jam syncing involves synchronizing the internal clocks of all recording devices to a single, master timecode source. This ensures that all cameras and audio recorders share the exact same timecode, eliminating drift and maintaining perfect synchronization throughout the shoot.

This method is invaluable on larger productions where multiple devices are used simultaneously. It saves countless hours in post-production by reducing, if not eliminating, the need for manual synchronization.

Scratch Audio: A Safety Net for Sync

Scratch audio, often recorded directly to the camera, serves as a backup reference for syncing audio and video. While not intended for final use, this low-quality audio track provides a basic waveform that can be visually aligned with the primary audio recording.

It is a safety net particularly useful when timecode synchronization fails or when dealing with older equipment. Scratch audio provides a simple and effective method to ensure a baseline level of sync.

Smart Slates: The Digital Revolution

The most significant advancement in slating technology is arguably the development of the digital, or "smart," slate. These devices replace the traditional clapperboard with an electronic display that shows critical information such as timecode, take number, scene number, and other relevant metadata.

Advantages of Digital Slates

Digital slates offer several advantages over their traditional counterparts. The electronic display is easily readable in all lighting conditions, eliminating potential errors caused by illegible handwriting. Many models also feature built-in timecode generators that can be jam synced to other devices on set, ensuring accurate synchronization.

They also offer superior durability compared to traditional slates. This is important in demanding production environments.

Metadata Integration

Smart slates can often record and transmit metadata wirelessly to the editing system. This streamlined data transfer significantly reduces the time spent manually logging and organizing footage. The editor gains immediate access to key information, expediting the post-production process.

In conclusion, modern slating techniques have transformed the film and video production landscape. Technology allows for more precise synchronization, more efficient workflows, and a reduction in human error. While the core principles of slating remain the same, these advancements have elevated the process, making it an indispensable tool for modern filmmakers.

The Slating Team: Roles and Responsibilities in Production

Slating, often an overlooked aspect of filmmaking, forms a cornerstone of efficient and successful film and video productions. Its function transcends simple record-keeping; it’s the linchpin connecting the chaotic energy of the set to the meticulous precision of post-production. Understanding who does what within the slating process is crucial to avoiding costly errors and maintaining a smooth workflow. On a film set, various roles intertwine to ensure proper slating, each with distinct responsibilities.

The Core Roles in Slating

Effective slating hinges on a clear division of labor. While the 1st AC typically operates the clapperboard, the sound recordist, script supervisor, and even the director, all play vital roles. Their collective efforts guarantee that each shot is accurately identified, recorded, and seamlessly integrated into the final product.

The 1st Assistant Camera (1st AC): The Slate Operator

The 1st AC is typically the primary operator of the clapperboard. This role involves more than just clapping the sticks.

They are responsible for:

• Clearly and audibly announcing the scene and take numbers.
• Ensuring all information on the slate is accurate and legible.
• Positioning the slate in front of the camera so it is visible and well-lit.
• Striking the sticks sharply to create a clear sync point for audio.

The 1st AC’s diligence directly impacts the efficiency of post-production. Their actions facilitate seamless synchronization and reduce the risk of errors.

The Sound Recordist: Monitoring and Syncing Audio

The Sound Recordist, also known as the Boom Operator or Sound Mixer, relies heavily on the slate for audio synchronization. They use the visual and audio cues from the slate to align the recorded sound with the corresponding video footage.

Their responsibilities include:

• Listening for the clarity and volume of the clap.
• Confirming the accuracy of scene and take information announced.
• Using the slate information to label and organize audio files.
• Troubleshooting any audio-related issues during the slating process.

Without the sound recordist’s attentive monitoring, the synchronization process would be significantly more challenging, if not impossible.

The Editor: Assembling the Puzzle

The editor’s role begins in post-production, where they rely on slate information to organize footage and synchronize audio and video. They use the visual and audio markers created by the slate to assemble the various shots into a cohesive sequence.

Their use of slate data:

• Quickly locate specific scenes and takes.
• Ensure perfect synchronization between audio and video tracks.
• Maintain a clear and organized workflow throughout the editing process.

Effective slating, therefore, directly translates to efficiency and accuracy in the editing room.

The Script Supervisor: Maintaining Continuity

The script supervisor plays a critical role in maintaining continuity and accurately logging takes based on slate information. They meticulously record details about each shot, including the scene number, take number, and any relevant notes about the action or dialogue.

Their responsibilities include:

• Tracking the progress of the shoot and ensuring that all scenes are covered.
• Identifying any discrepancies or inconsistencies between takes.
• Providing detailed notes to the editor to facilitate a smooth and accurate assembly.
• Ensuring that slates are correctly marked with all relevant information.

The script supervisor’s work is invaluable for ensuring the final product adheres to the script and maintains a coherent narrative.

The Director: Oversight and Decision-Making

The director has the ultimate oversight role in ensuring that proper slating procedures are followed. They are responsible for setting the tone and expectations for the entire production, including the slating process.

The director’s input includes:

• Emphasizing the importance of accurate and consistent slating.
• Providing clear direction to the crew regarding scene and take numbers.
• Monitoring the quality of the slating process and addressing any issues that arise.

While they may not be directly involved in operating the clapperboard, the director’s influence is crucial for ensuring that slating is given the attention it deserves.

Other Roles: Clapper Loaders and Video Assist Operators

While the 1st AC typically handles slating, a dedicated Clapper Loader might be assigned on larger productions. This allows the 1st AC to focus on other camera-related tasks. The Video Assist Operator plays a less direct role, primarily managing the video signal from the camera, but may occasionally assist with ensuring the slate is visible in the video feed.

Collaborative Responsibility

While individual roles are defined, successful slating requires a collaborative effort. Each crew member must understand their responsibilities and work together to ensure accuracy and consistency. Clear communication, attention to detail, and a shared commitment to quality are essential for maximizing the benefits of slating and minimizing the risk of errors. By understanding and respecting each other’s roles, the slating team can contribute significantly to the overall success of the production.

Slating, often an overlooked aspect of filmmaking, forms a cornerstone of efficient and successful film and video productions. Its function transcends simple record-keeping; it’s the linchpin connecting the chaotic energy of the set to the meticulous precision of post-production. Understanding the core concepts that underpin effective slating is, therefore, paramount to ensuring a seamless workflow and a polished final product.

Decoding Slating: Key Concepts for Seamless Production

At its heart, successful slating relies on a few fundamental principles. These concepts ensure that the efforts on set translate into a smooth and organized post-production experience, minimizing wasted time and maximizing creative potential. Let’s delve into the key components:

The Imperative of Synchronization

Synchronization, often shortened to “sync,” is the raison d’être of slating. The clapperboard serves as a bridge between the visual and auditory realms.

When the sticks meet, they create a distinct visual marker, captured by the camera, and a sharp, audible clap. This simultaneous event provides an unmistakable point of alignment when merging separate video and audio tracks during editing.

Without precise synchronization, the entire process of post-production can become a labor-intensive and frustrating exercise.

Data Management: The Foundation of Organization

Beyond the simple act of clapping, the information meticulously inscribed on the slate is of paramount importance.

This metadata—scene, take, director, camera operator, date, and other crucial details—forms the backbone of organization in post-production.

Accurate and consistent data management allows editors and post-production teams to quickly locate specific takes, track continuity, and efficiently manage the vast amounts of footage generated during a production.

Efficient Data Tracking

The ability to efficiently track this data is the difference between a smooth, creative process, and a disorganized nightmare.

Consistency is key; adopting a standardized format for slate information across the entire production ensures clarity and minimizes the risk of errors.

The Slate as a Visual Beacon

The slate acts as a readily identifiable visual marker for each shot. This allows editors to quickly identify and categorize footage.

In a sea of clips, the slate provides a clear visual indication of the scene and take, streamlining the selection process and preventing costly mistakes.

The "Clap": An Auditory Alignment Tool

The sharp "clap" produced when the sticks strike together creates a distinct audio spike that is easily identifiable on the audio waveform.

This auditory event serves as the counterpart to the visual marker, providing a precise point for aligning the audio and video tracks.

The clarity and audibility of the clap are, therefore, crucial; a muffled or poorly recorded clap can negate the entire purpose of the slate.

Continuity: Preserving the Narrative Flow

Accurate slate information is vital for maintaining continuity between shots. The script supervisor relies on the slate to track which takes have been successfully recorded and to identify any discrepancies or inconsistencies.

This information ensures that the narrative flows seamlessly, preventing jarring jumps or illogical transitions that can detract from the viewing experience.

By accurately recording the take number and other relevant details, the slate helps maintain the integrity of the storytelling process.

The Slating Landscape: Understanding the Film Set Environment

Slating, often an overlooked aspect of filmmaking, forms a cornerstone of efficient and successful film and video productions. Its function transcends simple record-keeping; it’s the linchpin connecting the chaotic energy of the set to the meticulous precision of post-production. Understanding the core concepts that underpin effective slating is, therefore, intrinsically linked to understanding the environment in which it takes place: the film set.

The Film Set: Ground Zero for Slating

The film set is more than just a location; it’s a microcosm of organized chaos, where numerous professionals converge with specialized equipment to capture a director’s vision. It is within this dynamic space that slating assumes its critical role.

The film set demands strict adherence to protocol, clear communication, and a collaborative spirit. Slating isn’t merely a technical task; it’s an integral part of the set’s ecosystem, directly influencing the smooth operation of filming.

"Rolling": The Prelude to Action

One of the most frequently heard terms on a film set is "Rolling!" Understanding its significance is crucial for anyone involved in the slating process. "Rolling" is the cue, typically called out by the sound recordist, indicating that audio recording has commenced.

Immediately following "Rolling," the camera operator will announce "Speed!", signalling that the camera is up to speed and also recording. Only after both of these acknowledgements is the environment deemed ready for the slate. The timing and sequence of these calls are essential.

The clapper loader or assistant camera operator then announces the scene number, take number, and production title, followed by a crisp clap of the sticks.

Navigating Set Etiquette: The Unspoken Rules of Slating

Beyond the technical execution, navigating the film set requires an understanding of unspoken rules or etiquette, particularly concerning slating. These rules promote efficiency, minimize disruptions, and maintain a professional atmosphere.

Clear Communication: The Key to Harmony

Effective communication is paramount. All parties involved, from the camera operator to the sound recordist, must be on the same page. Ensuring the scene and take numbers are clearly communicated and understood prevents costly errors down the line.

Timing is Everything: Patience and Precision

Slating requires precise timing. The slate should be presented clearly in front of the camera for a few seconds before the clap, allowing ample time for the camera to focus and record the information.

Rushing the process can lead to illegible information, missed sync points, and ultimately, headaches in post-production.

Respecting the Sound: Avoiding Unnecessary Noise

The audio integrity of the take is paramount. While the primary purpose of the slate is to create a sync point, care must be taken to avoid any extraneous noise that could interfere with the recording. This includes unnecessary chatter or movement during the slating process.

Acknowledging Authority: Deferring to the Director and Script Supervisor

Ultimately, the director and script supervisor hold sway over the set’s activities. If they request a change in procedure or have specific instructions regarding slating, their directives should be followed without question. Their decisions are made with the overall vision of the film in mind, and adhering to their guidance ensures a cohesive and efficient workflow.

Troubleshooting and Best Practices: Avoiding Common Slating Errors

Slating, often an overlooked aspect of filmmaking, forms a cornerstone of efficient and successful film and video productions. Its function transcends simple record-keeping; it’s the linchpin connecting the chaotic energy of the set to the meticulous precision of post-production. Understanding the nuances of common slating errors and implementing best practices is therefore paramount for any film crew aiming for seamless post-production workflows.

Identifying and Rectifying Frequent Mistakes

Numerous pitfalls can undermine the effectiveness of a slate, leading to confusion, delays, and increased costs in post-production. Avoiding these common errors is crucial for maintaining a smooth and professional workflow.

Illegible Writing: Clarity Above All Else

One of the most pervasive issues is illegible handwriting. The information on the slate is only useful if it can be easily read and deciphered.

Sloppy or rushed writing defeats the purpose of the slate entirely. To combat this, ensure that the designated person writing on the slate takes their time and uses clear, block-style lettering.

Using a slate marker with a bold tip and regularly cleaning the slate surface also greatly improves readability. If you’re using a digital slate, verify that the displayed information is large enough and clearly visible on the monitor.

Inaudible Claps: The Sound of Synchronization

A weak or muffled clap is another common problem, rendering the audio sync point unusable. The "clap" sound is critical for synchronizing audio and video; without a clear, sharp clap, the editing process becomes significantly more complicated and time-consuming.

Ensure the clapper sticks are held firmly together and struck with sufficient force. Pay attention to the surrounding environment; external noise can mask the clap.

If possible, position the slate closer to the microphone to capture a cleaner audio signal.

Using a dedicated clapper loader can help ensure consistent and effective claps. Always double-check audio levels to confirm a clear recording.

Inaccurate Information: The Cardinal Sin

Perhaps the most damaging error is inaccurate information on the slate. Incorrect scene numbers, take numbers, or other metadata can lead to misidentification of shots, causing significant confusion and wasted time in post-production.

Implement a strict verification process to ensure all information is accurate before each take. The script supervisor should be actively involved in confirming scene and take numbers.

Double-check the date and project title, and never assume that the previous take’s information is still correct. Consistency and accuracy are key to smooth post-production workflows.

Visual Obstruction: Ensuring a Clear View

The slate must be positioned to ensure visual clarity. Obstructions, such as crew members or equipment blocking the view of the slate, render it useless.

Always ensure that the slate is held in a position where all information is fully visible to the camera. Avoid placing the slate too close to the lens, which can cause focus issues. Also, avoid blocking any part of the information with hands or fingers.

Overcoming Challenges in Difficult Shooting Environments

Certain shooting conditions present unique challenges to effective slating. Adapting techniques and employing specific strategies can mitigate these issues.

Low Light Situations: Illumination is Key

In low-light environments, the slate may be difficult to read on camera. The key to overcoming this is to ensure adequate illumination of the slate.

Use a small, portable light specifically designed for illuminating the slate. Digital slates with illuminated displays are particularly useful in these situations.

Alternatively, carefully position an existing light source to brighten the slate without creating harsh shadows or glare. Ensure the information on the slate is easily readable without overexposing the shot.

Fast-Paced Environments: Speed and Efficiency

In fast-paced shooting situations, such as documentary filmmaking or action sequences, there may be limited time to properly slate each take.

In such cases, prioritize essential information and streamline the slating process. Consider using a simplified slate with only the most crucial data, such as scene and take numbers.

Utilize timecode slates that automatically display and record timecode information. Work closely with the camera operator to develop a quick and efficient slating routine.

Noisy Environments: Overcoming Auditory Obstacles

Noisy sets present a challenge to capturing clear audio of the slate clap. Exterior locations, machinery, or large groups of people can drown out the sound needed for synchronization.

In these situations, get the slate as close to the microphone as possible. Consider using an external microphone specifically for capturing the slate clap.

Communicate with the sound recordist to ensure they are aware of the noisy environment and are taking steps to mitigate the issue. Repeating the slate information verbally can also provide a backup reference.

So, next time you’re on set, remember these tips and techniques. Mastering the art of slating in film might seem small, but it’s a crucial step towards a smooth and organized shoot – and ultimately, a better final product. Good luck, and happy slating!