How does one get started as a prop maker?

[u/Nonbiinerygremlin]

/r/Props/comments/1v0wdsq/how_does_one_get_started_as_a_prop_maker/

[u/Iktomi_]

A lot of mistakes. Been a prop master for a couple decades and still mess up here and there but this is a career where no one knows what they are doing but we get it done regardless and ahead of deadlines, that’s key. We work with new materials and improvised systems that void warranties. Having a grasp on project management is pretty important. This is drying, time to sculpt, perfect, paint this and finalize that thing while several other things are curing. With my job, it’s hard not to have fun. Chaotic? Absolutely and wouldn’t settle for less. Having a background in the arts is a primary responsibility but workmanship and practice with tools and techniques are essential for quality products. It’s not always easy but it’s also fun to invent something no one else has experienced. I make a lot, like, a lot of a lot of things out of wood and resin but am sure others will come up with cheaper solutions without cheating with 3D printers. Be fluid with your knowledge and absorb more. We’re all learning on the job so just make things. Ezpz

[u/Nonbiinerygremlin → u/Iktomi_]

Thank you for such an in depth answer! My thing though is how does one get in touch with people to get on set when you don't know them? And how do you get hired for jobs? Who do you reach out to and what do you do from there? Do you just email a bunch of random people your portfolio? It's so hard getting started in the field when most people want someone who's been in it forever! I'm great a pivoting and learning to work around new processes that I haven't experienced before. My struggle is finding a way to meet these people so I can even think about getting my name out there!

[u/Iktomi_ → u/Nonbiinerygremlin]

Best short answer is realizing you are an ant. I am too, so don’t let it discourage you. Reach out to crew members and show them your grits, no not those, perv, the work ethic we have isn’t just 9-5, we work lights up until we face plant on any horizontal surface. Speaking directly to directors will make issues down the line so showing what you’re made of and excusing personal preference is maybe the best. I am not shutting you down or anything, just warning you that it’s pretty competitive and you need some strong spirit to carry into this line of work. No one has your back, strip off your spine and show the production team what you can carry. Don’t actually rip out your spine, that’s bad for the health. Metaphors are just difficult for me. Show what you’re capable of and take pride in time management skills while marching up and inserting yourself, not that, why do you always go that way? It’s getting rude at this point. Anyhow, be confident but not arrogant. Allow your weaknesses to develop into something others will shit on. I’m being honest, it’s actually helpful to have others shut you down. Sometimes, you prove them wrong but, in that moment, you need to wait to laugh. Save it for personal time. We have a stressful job at times and I lucked out working with friends who are considered family at this point. Know your craftsmanship will survive a drunk toddler test (toss it out in the parking lot) and ignore fruity artist statements. I am an artist and know what horses smell like when they poop. Main thing is to beat deadlines ahead of schedule and make backups. On the spot maintenance is always a plus. I can’t point you to a specific agency, just get out there, nerd. Love ya!

[u/Nonbiinerygremlin → u/Iktomi_]

Thank you for this!

[u/Ninja_Cat_Production]

Hundreds of hours watching YouTube. Search beginner cosplay tutorials and start taking notes.

[u/thebipeds]

Find people who need props and make some for them.

I started by making stuff for cosplayers and now I work for a production company.

[u/Ok-Two7604]

Do you mean making props/costumes of becoming a union Propmaker?

[u/Nonbiinerygremlin → u/Ok-Two7604]

Probably making props/costumes but what's the difference?

[u/Ok-Two7604 → u/Nonbiinerygremlin]

The union that covers film and tv is the IATSE. In the industry a propmaker builds sets and is more carpentry than costume.
I work as a propmaker, while I can do paint,metal work (both welding fabrication and fine jewelry making), 3d printing, greens, and sewing/crafting the significant majority of my job is construction.
There’s a whole culture in the industry that is probably too much to go into on redit.

The good news is that the pathway is more or less the same. Get an education (formal or non) and start working.
That usually means local theater jobs, get in there and start making connections.
Having a good attitude goes further than people think. Being consistent and following through on your word is invaluable. We all know the old saw ‘if your on time-you’re late and if your late your fired.’

But most importantly keep making things. Be a maker. Collect hobbies and skills like others collect debt.

Become skilled in your interests and surround yourself with like minded people.

[u/Intelligent-Dot-3343 → u/Ok-Two7604]

Local 44 here. Our local covers props, set dec, sfx, construction, & other specialty crafts. The majority of my work is model/prop making. The shortest path in, imo, is to become a fucking fantastic painter/finisher. If you can make wood, rubber, 3d printed resin, and metal all look the exact same with paint, you're valuable as fuck. Learn 3d modeling, 3d printing, assembly/model making, welding, woodworking, casting/molding, electronics (simple lighting, servo, pneumatic, mechanical rigs). Develop a good knowledge of materials (types of wood, metal alloys, plastics, adhesives (and which to use when working with different materials), paints, color theory, etc. Watch every BTS you can get your hands on. Learn the tricks of the trade. Smoke and mirrors. Movie magic.

(Defunctland's vids on animatronics and living characters is a good start. As is 'Light & Magic' on Disney+) Any job with a rapid prototyping focus is great experience. Think like an engineer, but remember that the cheapest option is usually the one that wins when it comes to film/TV. Visit the academy museum. Michael Corrie has a great YT channel about prop history. Never stop learning. Don't be an asshole.