10.2 Sourcing and Creating Props

Props are the unsung heroes of set design, bringing scenes to life with authenticity and detail. From sourcing at prop houses to custom fabrication, designers have a wealth of options to find or create the perfect items for any production.

Managing props involves careful budgeting, tracking, and maintenance. Balancing rental and purchase decisions, implementing inventory systems, and establishing handling protocols ensure props are available and in top condition throughout filming.

Sourcing Props

Prop Houses and Specialty Stores

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Top images from around the web for Prop Houses and Specialty Stores

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  VFS Film Production: 'Milligan’s Stew' | The Studio Intensiv… | Flickr View original

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  Sound Design Foley Prop Room | Foley is the art of recording… | Flickr View original

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  The Making of Harry Potter 29-05-2012 | Prop-Making Magic A … | Flickr View original

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  VFS Film Production: 'Milligan’s Stew' | The Studio Intensiv… | Flickr View original

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• Prop houses offer extensive collections of items for film and theater productions
• Provide wide range of props from furniture to small decorative objects
• Often organized by time period, style, or type of prop
• Allow production designers to browse and select items in person
• Thrift stores and antique shops serve as valuable resources for unique, vintage items
  • Offer affordable options for period-specific props
  • Require more time investment to search for appropriate items
  • Can yield unexpected finds that add authenticity to set designs

Online Marketplaces and Digital Resources

• Online marketplaces (eBay, Etsy) expand sourcing options beyond local availability
• Provide access to rare or specialized props from sellers worldwide
• Allow for keyword searches to find specific items quickly
• Digital prop libraries offer 3D models and textures for virtual set design
• Social media platforms can connect designers with collectors or specialty prop makers

Rental vs. Purchase Considerations

• Rental options provide cost-effective solutions for short-term use
• Purchasing becomes more economical for props needed throughout production or multiple projects
• Factors influencing rental vs. purchase decisions include:
  • Duration of prop use in production
  • Storage capabilities of production company
  • Potential for prop reuse in future projects
  • Uniqueness or customization requirements of the prop
• Rental agreements often include maintenance and insurance considerations

Creating Props

Custom Fabrication Techniques

• Involves designing and building props from scratch to meet specific production needs
• Utilizes various materials (wood, metal, plastics, foam) based on prop requirements
• Techniques include:
  • Sculpting for organic shapes or detailed figurines
  • Molding and casting for creating multiples of the same prop
  • Woodworking for furniture or architectural elements
  • Metalworking for weapons or industrial props
• Requires collaboration between designers, artisans, and specialty craftspeople
• Allows for precise control over prop appearance, size, and functionality

3D Printing and Digital Fabrication

• 3D printing enables rapid prototyping and production of complex prop designs
• Benefits of 3D printing in prop creation:
  • Ability to produce intricate geometries difficult to achieve with traditional methods
  • Quick turnaround for last-minute prop needs or modifications
  • Consistency in producing multiple copies of the same prop
• Process involves:
  • Creating 3D models using CAD software
  • Selecting appropriate printing materials (plastics, resins, metals)
  • Post-processing printed props (sanding, painting, assembling)
• Other digital fabrication methods include CNC milling and laser cutting
  • Useful for creating precise cuts or engravings on various materials

Prop Management

Budgeting and Cost Control

• Prop budgets encompass sourcing, creation, and maintenance costs
• Factors influencing prop budgets:
  • Scale of production and number of props required
  • Complexity and uniqueness of props needed
  • Duration of production and potential for prop reuse
• Strategies for managing prop budgets:
  • Prioritizing key props that require higher investment
  • Balancing between renting and purchasing based on long-term cost-effectiveness
  • Negotiating bulk discounts with suppliers or prop houses
  • Allocating contingency funds for unexpected prop needs or damages

Prop Tracking and Maintenance Systems

• Implement inventory management systems to track prop locations and condition
• Utilize digital databases or specialized software for large productions
• Develop a check-in/check-out system for props used on set
• Establish maintenance schedules to ensure props remain in good condition
  • Regular cleaning and repairs to extend prop lifespan
  • Documentation of prop condition before and after use
• Create protocols for handling delicate or valuable props
  • Special storage requirements for fragile items
  • Insurance considerations for high-value props
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure proper prop handling and placement during filming