Mold Making
Basic techniques for
creating single or multiple piece molds using urethane or
silicone rubber.
Each student will make a mold from an object
using materials determined by the end use of the object to
be molded. Multiple techniques and principles will be discussed
during this workshop to give an understanding of the many
variations for constructing a proper mold for casting.
Each student will complete one mold from
start to finish that will be ready for casting.
Casting
Curing methods and preparation for finishing
will be the focus of this section.
With so many casting materials on the market
today, this portion of the workshop will provide students
with a general knowledge of what is available from clear resins
to soft foams. The end use and finish of the piece being cast
determines the casting material and techniques to be used.
Each student will cast objects from their
own molds using multiple casting materials.
Finishing/Painting
Once a casting has been produced and pulled
from the mold, the final finishing and painting can make or
break a prop.
In this section of the workshop, various
finishing techniques will be explored while keeping the focus
on the logevity, flexibility and realism of the prop. Understanding
the visual and functional requirements of the films 'shot'
is critical in the success of your prop.
Rubber Food
Fake food can be a big part of prop building.
Whether from the heat of the lights or animal actors that
would otherwise eat the real thing, realistic rubber food
is a part of a prop builder's skills set. We will explore
how to mold and replicate realistic looking rubber food.
Each student will choose a food to be molded,
cast and finished.
Basic Airbrushing and Finishing
Basic airbrushing equipment, paints and techniques
will be the focus of this section.
Students will gain the basic knowledge of
the equipment available and their function in the finishing
and painting of the cast props. Whether it's a chrome finish
on a flexible knife blade or a translucent colour on a clear
cast crystal, airbrushing can be an integral part of prop
finishing.
Foam Carving
Various carving and finishing techniques
using styrofoam blocks will be explored. Hotwire tools and
carving instruments will be used to create interesting sculptures
and organic shapes. Final finishing, coating and paint washes
will also be utilized.
Breakaway Concrete
Basic principles in mixing, casting and finishing
of breakaway concrete used in film special effects is the
focus of this section.
Inexpensive and Realistic Skeletal Corpses
Using pre-made skeletons, all students will
get their hands-on using latex, paints and a variety of materials
to create realistic looking corpses.
