How to Make Homemade Stage Props
- 1). Begin by making a list of the props you will need to make versus those you have or can gather or borrow. This list will further determine the things you will need. A hot glue gun is a necessity and should be also kept back stage during the show for any necessary repairs.
- 2). Make a drawing of what the item should look like and determine what it should or could be made out of. Would a wand work better with a dowel rod and cardboard or could you use a glass curtain finial and decorate it with ribbons and glitter?
- 3). Run your ideas past the director before constructing. He may not like the vision you have and you don't want to waste your time.
- 4). Shop around for parts and pieces that can be used, such as the glass finial for a wand. Think outside the box. A rubber ball covered with pushpins and glued to a dowel rod would make a good mace.
- 5). You will need to know how to use certain tools or find someone who does to add to your crew. Woodworking knowledge is a valuable asset.
- 6). Consider the safety of the actors. If a sword is to be used and you do not have experienced swordsmen on stage you need to be sure the sword is blunt. Wood is a good choice for this. It would then need to be painted to look authentic.
- 7). Pay attention to how the prop is to be used. While a decorative mace could be glued together, one that is used should be made with sturdy materials and screwed together firmly.
- 8). Remember that this is a stage prop. It needs to look good from the audience, not up close.
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