HOLLY GRACE DESIGN

An introduction to prop making at the Bristol old vic theatre school
 
During this short course I was introduced to different prop making skills, using some new materials and becoming more familiar with certain techniques. 

We started with carpentry, creating a small wooden stool with a laser engraved detail. The top panels of the stool are joined using biscuits and glue before being clamped into place to dry. All corners were planed to knock off the sharp edges and all surfaces were sanded using an orbital sander. I chose to engrave my initials on the top, setting the laser to engrave to my desired depth. The legs are secured together using mortise and tenon joints, secured with wood glue. (not yet finished, more images to be added). 

The second project looked at creating a clay sculpt to create a plaster mould. I chose to make a likeness of my dog, using reference pictures to create my sculpt. This was then surrounded by walls, sealed with hot glue, before being covered with plaster. Once set the clay was removed and liquid latex poured into the inverted shape. After ten minutes I poured the excess latex out and left it to fully dry. The latex forms a thin outer shell which is then filled with expanding foam before being released from the plaster mould and painted. (not yet finished, more images to be added). 

We also made silicone moulds of small objects. I created a barbie logo badge from modelling clay which was then covered in silicone. Once set I used this mould to create a resin casting. 

Finally, we looked at creating larger than life food for stage, using polystyrene. I chose to carve a croissant. This was then rasped and scrimmed before being painted. (not yet finished, more images to be added). 

I learnt a lot on this short course and have come away with a new level of confidence for using standard prop making techniques and materials.