Prop Making
Can you create a period prop?
Create a newspaper front page about the poor trampled child
Try to create an authentic looking paper suitable for when the play is set.
What headline do you think the paper should have?
Can you use fonts and images to make it look real?
You can create simple sketch of the paper or try to create the actual prop
Take a photo of your designs and email your work to
We are looking forward to seeing your ideas!
Stage props backstage created by the stage management team
Creating your prop
Prop makers might make anything from fake jewellery to replica weapons and moving models. They work with a broad range of materials, including metal, latex, fibreglass, wood and textiles. Prop makers use a range of different skills to create props, such as carpentry, sculpting, casting, sewing, painting, welding and computer-aided design.
On a project, prop maker will:
discuss what props are required with production staff
interpret plans made from rough sketches to detailed designs
carry out historical or cultural research to make authentic-looking items
experiment with different materials and methods to create effects such as ageing
use hand and power tools to create props
hire or buy props when necessary
repair props
On larger productions, typically in film and TV, this role would work closely with a team including production designers, set designers, set builders, wardrobe and costume staff.
On smaller productions, often in theatre, prop makers may be responsible for set building and costume work as well as making props.
Prop Maker Eric Hart has a great guide to prop newspapers on his website: http://www.props.eric-hart.com/how-to/making-a-fake-newspaper/
LCC Backstage student creating props for a Christmas event at Lotherton Hall
Lyndsey's design tips
Try using coffee or tea (no milk!) to stain modern white paper to make it look aged and more suitable to an historical time period.
Remember that sizes of newspaper and layouts have changed over the centuries!