The Prop Building Guidebook
For Theatre, Film, and TV
By Eric Hart
Published March 8th 2013 by Focal Press – 383 pages
Description
Theatre and film frequently require replicas of three-dimensional objects built for actors to use. This book lays the groundwork for an artisan to determine what materials and techniques to use to build these props. Walking the reader through the various tools and techniques used in historical and contemporary prop-making, the author presents a process for deciding the materials and methods to build any prop. With an explanation of how the craft and its products have developed over time, the budding artisan will understand not just how and when to use certain techniques or materials, but also why to use them and what advantages they give. It arms the prop maker with a structured procedure for approaching the construction of any prop. Illustrated with step-by-step examples of how to use each construction method, and explanations of different types of materials, this book gives the beginner prop artisan a strong foundation to approach the construction of props and answers the question, "How should I begin?"
The author is hosting an online component to the book along with his successful blog. It will feature additional resources for the prop maker, including books, shops, contact information, and how-to videos.
Contents
Introduction
Part One: Preparation
1. What are props? - Definitions in theatre and film; Why make?; A brief history of prop-making
2. Getting Started - Making the shape; Shape vs surface treatment; Structure
3. Breaking it Down - What your prop needs to do; Reference and research; Dividing complex shapes into simpler parts; Work- flow; Construction drawings; Mock-Ups and Patterns
4. Choosing your materials - Strength; Weight; Appearance; Realism; Resources
5. Safety - Chemicals; Respirators and Ventilation; Gloves, Sleeves and Clothes; Eyes, Ears and Shoes
6. Tools - Hand vs power tools; Jigs and measuring; Adhesives and attachment
Part Two: Materials and methods
7. Constructive Materials - Carpentry; Metal; Plastics; Cardboard and other non-traditional
8. Drape it and shape it - Fabric and Soft Sculpture; Sheet Metal; papier mâché; Fiber Glass and composites; Pepakura
9. Armatures and skeletons
10. Sculptural Materials - Foam; Clay
11. Assemblage - found object; repurposed pieces; nurnies, greebles, diapering, and kit-bashing molding and casting
Part Three: Finishing it off
12. Getting it smooth - sanding; filling
13. Getting it rough - Texture; Scenic dope and monster mud
14. Painting - Primer and base coats; faux finishes; translucent coats; protective coats
Part Four: Finding jobs and getting paid
15. Budget estimates
16. Charging for your labor
17. What types of jobs can you get as a props artisan; Where to look for work
18. Maintaining a portfolio - photography and process shots
Author Bio
Prop Builder
Related Subjects
Name: The Prop Building Guidebook: For Theatre, Film, and TV (Hardback) – Focal Press
Description: By Eric Hart. Theatre and film frequently require replicas of three-dimensional objects built for actors to use. This book lays the groundwork for an artisan to determine what materials and techniques to use to build these props. Walking the reader through the various...
Categories: Theatrical Production, Theatre & Performance Studies
