Handprops

A handprop is anything the actor uses on stage that is not attached, therefore a handprop can be virtually anything. In order to narrow the spectrum down, here are some general guidelines to follow when making a handprop.

Scene Painting

Scene Painting is a vital aspect of putting a show together. It doesn't matter how many hours you spent putting together a mold, carving a design, or building a piece of the set; if the scene painter doesn't know how to paint the object to life the audience will never understand what you were trying to accomplish.

Foam Carving

Foam carving for set building is used for texture, decor, handprops, etc. It is used because you can make anything you can dream of and it is still light weight for stage techs and actors to use. For example, if an actor needs to lift a heavy rock during a show, instead of using a 50lb rock or even a mold that weighs 10lbs, you can use a 5lb piece of foam. It just requires more work on the acting side of things. Another example would be a set piece which requires a textured exterior, such as wood, siding or stucco. Instead of using the actual material which would weigh the set down and make it difficult to be moved around on stage and off, you could use foam, and have the same effect and it would be much lighter.

Guidelines for Posting

• Do not use any foul language or offensive statements.
• Please check your spelling and grammar.
• Do not disrespect people, organizations, or companies.
• Please do not mention another person specifically unless you have their permission.
• Make sure your postings are true.
• Please make sure your postings have a point and/or an educational value. It can be a question if it furthers the understanding of the subject.

Mold Making

Mold making is an essential part of the stagecraft experience. When the technique for mold making is learned your possiblities for creation increases ten fold. It is also very helpful when you need to make the same thing mulitiple times. Molds can be used for decor purposes, such as repeated designs on a building, handles for swords or staff toppers, etc. They can also be used as props. Here is a link to a company called Smooth-On and a step by step process for making a mold for a handprop. http://www.smooth-on.com/gallery.php?galleryid=325&cPath=1290