Prop Building

If you have something you cant rent, buy, or convince your director you don't need, it's going to be a build. This could be anything from an ice sculpture to a rubber weapon, to an intricate electronic device. The build process can be both fun and painful. First, you're going to need a concept which should be discussed with the producers, director and production designer. From there, you may need illustrations and designs drawn up. Occasionally, a napkin sketch is all there's time for. Sometimes a build may not be obvious when reading the script and the need for one will arise from practical limitations, safety concerns or FX/Stunt requirements such as the need to make something rubber.

Things to consider


 * How is the prop being used. Does it need to be dropped? Will it be in the rain? Does the actor need to turn it on or off in the scene? Does it need remote control?
 * What is the budget? What is the timeline?
 * Who's going to make it? What parts or components do they need?
 * Are other departments involved like lighting, special effects or computer playback? Does it need to be camera tested for flicker?
 * What kinds of batteries does it need and what tools do you need to change them?
 * If you need to touch it up, do you have touch-up paint?
 * How soft should a rubber prop be? Soft enough to be safe, firm enough to not wiggle?

There are countless talented independent artists and build shops in the Vancouver area specializing in a wide variety of skills. Once you get to know many of the builders you get a sense of who's right for which job. Of course, you might not always have a choice if a shop is too busy to help you, or you need something done over a weekend. Below is a list of some of the Vancouver area build shops that may be able to help with your builds.

Charron Custom Prop Building

Dark Horse Design

Flying Fox Prop Shop

IRL Creative

Hopewell Works

Li-Leger Creative

Little Big Workshop

Pantheon Design

Pro Model Builders

Maker Machine

Red Model Design

Unlimited Design

White Monkey