Introduction to prop making for film, TV, theatre and display
Learn a range of sculptural techniques that are used in the ever expanding film, TV and theatre prop making industry. Explore a range of sculpting and casting methods and fabricating techniques, and experiment with materials.
Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
For those with an interest in prop making, or those wishing to start out on the path to working as a prop maker in film, TV and theatre. This intensive week long introduction to prop making techniques will focus on responding to a given brief and introduce the demands of the prop making industry. You will explore a range of sculptural materials and techniques that are employed to make props in these industries including, sculpting, fabricating, casting, mould making and paint effects and finishes. You will be introduced to the possible progression routes of further study at a higher level and/or potential employment avenues in this area.
What will we cover?
Working to a given brief, you will explore and experiment in the following disciplines in relation to prop making: - Sculpting in a variety of different materials - Mould making and casting - Fabricating - Paint effects and finishes - Carpentry - Pattern cutting in foam - Working with scale.
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Have a good understanding of the demands of a specific prop making project as appropriate to the industries of film, TV and theatre. - Use a range of appropriate techniques and processes. - Gain an understanding of the requirements of developing a prop making brief. - Understand the importance of experimentation and record keeping. - Gain an understanding of possible progression routes within the subject.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
No previous experience is necessary. This is an intensive introductory level course. There is a follow on course to develop your skills further if you wish to continue your study in this area.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
- Each day will introduce new materials, processes and tools with the last day being a self driven micro-project using the knowledge learnt over the previous days. - You will be taught by demonstration followed by practical application. - Briefs and projects will be set by the tutor. - You will be advised to utilise London's vibrant museums and art galleries for inspiration for your final day's self driven project. The British Museum is just around the corner from the Keeley Street campus. - You will receive one to one guidance and there will be group discussions. - You will be shown examples of work by practising prop makers and you will receive information about progression routes available to you.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Materials and Equipment General tools and equipment will be provided. The course fee covers most of the cost of materials for sampling and experimentation.
Please bring a sketchbook, pencils and a pen to sketch and make notes. A camera is also useful to photograph your work.
What to Wear Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes—no sandals or open-toed footwear. Old work clothes or overalls are also advised.
Health and Safety Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as facemasks for use when working with materials that may release airborne particles, will be provided and must be worn as required.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
The City Lit sculpture department offers a wide range of exciting courses that will allow you to progress from beginner to advanced and learn a range of techniques. After this course, you may wish to join a similar course to develop your skills further or try something completely different. We offer courses in prop making, metal, clay, carving in stone and wood, mould making and casting, and much more! Alternatively, you may wish to progress onto the year-long City Lit Sculpture course VU841, which helps you build your individual sculpture practice.
Please ask your tutor for advice, browse the City Lit website for inspiration, or contact our visual arts team by emailing visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or calling 0203 880 2415 Monday - Friday, 11 am - 4 pm.
The in-person information desk (at our Keeley Street campus) is open Monday - Friday from 12 pm - 1:55 pm & 3 pm - 5 pm. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday from 10:30 am -12 pm & 3 pm -5 pm. General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday between 12:00 - 13:55 & 15:00 - 17:00. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday between 10:30 - 12:00 & 15:00 - 17:00
We’re sorry. We don’t have a bio ready for the tutor of this class at the moment, but we’re working on it! Watch this space.
Ro SylvesterSee moreSee less
Ro Sylvester is a veteran of film and theatre, having made costume and props for productions such as ‘Hellraiser’ and ‘Legend’ back in the ‘80s. She ran a costume studio in Covent Garden for some time, supplying the Opera House and other West End Theatres with costumes and props. Ro also made many props and costumes for pop videos including Eddie Grant, Supertramp and New Order. From the early ‘90s, she worked in secondary and 6th form teaching, delivering exam courses in Design Technology, Textiles, Graphics, Computer Graphics and Model Making. Having retired from secondary teaching in 2017, Ro has worked to private commission in retail display, commercials and theatre. She has also worked as a tutor at City Lit, teaching; Model Making, Prop Making, Perspective, Pastel drawing and general creativity skills. She continues to create bespoke lightweight jewellery, window displays and props for theatre and film. Ro runs a lively and fast moving classroom, helping students to explore their potential and progress onto other courses where applicable. You can see much of her work and that of her students on her website.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/introduction-to-prop-making-for-film-tv-theatre-and-display295027Introduction to prop making for film, TV, theatre and displayhttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/introduction-to-prop-making-for-film-tv-theatre-and-display-1024.jpg499499GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Art & design/Courses/Art & design/3D and digital design/Courses/Art & design/3D and digital design/Model & prop making/Courses/Weird and wonderful City Lit/Courses/vm/Beginners courses in art & design/Courses/vm/Summer courses/Courses/vm/Summer courses/Summer courses in art & design228511321639172617451360813457135631228511321639165313457Learn a range of sculptural techniques that are used in the ever expanding film, TV and theatre prop making industry. Explore a range of sculpting and casting methods and fabricating techniques, and experiment with materials.002540548Introduction to prop making for film, TV, theatre and display499499https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/introduction-to-prop-making-for-film-tv-theatre-and-display-1024_12.jpgInStockDaytimeMon-FriKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2026-07-27T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experience, Advanced, Suitable for allJul 2026Art & designVU106499499Introduction to prop making for film, TV, theatre and display399324499Ro Sylvesterintroduction-to-prop-making-for-film-tv-theatre-and-display/vu106-2526Learn a range of sculptural techniques that are used in the ever expanding film, TV and theatre prop making industry. Explore a range of sculpting and casting methods and fabricating techniques, and experiment with materials.0000-Available|2026-07-27 00:00:00For those with an interest in prop making, or those wishing to start out on the path to working as a prop maker in film, TV and theatre. This intensive week long introduction to prop making techniques will focus on responding to a given brief and introduce the demands of the prop making industry. You will explore a range of sculptural materials and techniques that are employed to make props in these industries including, sculpting, fabricating, casting, mould making and paint effects and finishes. You will be introduced to the possible progression routes of further study at a higher level and/or potential employment avenues in this area.Learn a range of sculptural techniques that are used in the ever expanding film, TV and theatre prop making industry. Explore a range of sculpting and casting methods and fabricating techniques, and experiment with materials.Working to a given brief, you will explore and experiment in the following disciplines in relation to prop making:<br/>- Sculpting in a variety of different materials<br/>- Mould making and casting<br/>- Fabricating<br/>- Paint effects and finishes<br/>- Carpentry<br/>- Pattern cutting in foam<br/>- Working with scale.- Have a good understanding of the demands of a specific prop making project as appropriate to the industries of film, TV and theatre.<br/>- Use a range of appropriate techniques and processes.<br/>- Gain an understanding of the requirements of developing a prop making brief.<br/>- Understand the importance of experimentation and record keeping.<br/>- Gain an understanding of possible progression routes within the subject.No previous experience is necessary. This is an intensive introductory level course. There is a follow on course to develop your skills further if you wish to continue your study in this area.- Each day will introduce new materials, processes and tools with the last day being a self driven micro-project using the knowledge learnt over the previous days.<br/>- You will be taught by demonstration followed by practical application.<br/>- Briefs and projects will be set by the tutor.<br/>- You will be advised to utilise London's vibrant museums and art galleries for inspiration for your final day's self driven project. The British Museum is just around the corner from the Keeley Street campus.<br/>- You will receive one to one guidance and there will be group discussions.<br/>- You will be shown examples of work by practising prop makers and you will receive information about progression routes available to you.<p><strong>Materials and Equipment</strong><br/>General tools and equipment will be provided. The course fee covers most of the cost of materials for sampling and experimentation.</p><p>Please bring a sketchbook, pencils and a pen to sketch and make notes. A camera is also useful to photograph your work.</p><p><strong>What to Wear</strong><br/>Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes—no sandals or open-toed footwear. Old work clothes or overalls are also advised.</p><p><strong>Health and Safety</strong><br/>Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as facemasks for use when working with materials that may release airborne particles, will be provided and must be worn as required.</p><p>The City Lit sculpture department offers a wide range of exciting courses that will allow you to progress from beginner to advanced and learn a range of techniques. After this course, you may wish to join a similar course to develop your skills further or try something completely different. We offer courses in prop making, metal, clay, carving in stone and wood, mould making and casting, and much more! Alternatively, you may wish to progress onto the year-long City Lit Sculpture course VU841, which helps you build your individual sculpture practice.</p><p> </p><p>Please ask your tutor for advice, browse the City Lit website for inspiration, or contact our visual arts team by emailing visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or calling 0203 880 2415 Monday - Friday, 11 am - 4 pm. </p><p><br/>The in-person information desk (at our Keeley Street campus) is open Monday - Friday from 12 pm - 1:55 pm & 3 pm - 5 pm. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday from 10:30 am -12 pm & 3 pm -5 pm. General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday between 12:00 - 13:55 & 15:00 - 17:00. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday between 10:30 - 12:00 & 15:00 - 17:00</p>3D and digital designModel & prop makingvirtual2586634Introduction to prop making for film, TV, theatre and display499499https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/introduction-to-prop-making-for-film-tv-theatre-and-display-1024_13.jpgInStockEveningFriKeeley StreetNo longer available5-10 weeksWeekday2026-01-16T00:00:00+00:00BeginnersJan 2026Art & designVU980499499Introduction to prop making for film, TV, theatre and display399324499Naoko Tagaiintroduction-to-prop-making-for-film-tv-theatre-and-display/vu980-2526Do you ever dream of conjuring up the props for Harry Potter, Doctor Who or West End musicals? Are you an animator who wants to make props for your animation film, or are you interested in a career in window display? You will explore techniques used by the professionals to produce effective props and sets. Get hands-on experience of sculpting, fabricating, casting, mould making and using paint effects. Learn about the demands of the industry from a specialist tutor, and have a go at translating your own ideas into 3D.0015-FullStillOpen|2026-01-16 00:00:00This is course is very accessible, hands-on and friendly! You will explore a range of materials and techniques including carving and sculpting, fabricating, mould making, casting, finishing and paint effects. You will be encouraged to develop your personal interpretation and interests throughout the course.Do you ever dream of conjuring up the props for Harry Potter, Doctor Who or West End musicals? Are you an animator who wants to make props for your animation film, or are you interested in a career in window display? You will explore techniques used by the professionals to produce effective props and sets. Get hands-on experience of sculpting, fabricating, casting, mould making and using paint effects. Learn about the demands of the industry from a specialist tutor, and have a go at translating your own ideas into 3D.- Sculpting in clay and Sculpey<br/>- Carving in polystyrene and styrofoam<br/>- Mould making and casting<br/>- Life casting<br/>- Fabricating<br/>- Paint effects and finishes<br/>- Contextual research.- Sculpt objects in clay or Sculpey.<br/>- Carve a basic sculpt in polystyrene or Styrofoam.<br/>- Make a one-piece mould and cast in Jesmonite.<br/>- Understand the concept of life casting and make at least one cast.<br/>- Understand the concept of fabrication and manipulation of various materials.<br/>- Use paint effects, finishes and experiments effectively.<br/>- Identify areas within the prop making industry that might use your specific area of expertise.This is a beginner's course, so no previous experience is necessary. Although those with some experience are welcome.You will be introduced to new materials and techniques at each session, and encouraged to develop these to the best of your ability. You will be taught by demonstration followed by practical application, and given short tasks to follow. We understand that you might be more comfortable with some processes than others, but encourage you to have an open mind in order to experience all techniques and therefore gain the most from this course.<br/><br/>You will receive one-to-one guidance and there will also be group discussions. We also encourage independent research and investigation outside of the class, but this is not compulsory. You will be shown examples of work from practising prop makers and you will receive information about further progression routes available.<p><strong>Materials and Equipment</strong></p><p>Basic materials are supplied, although you will be asked to bring in images and/or objects to support various tasks.</p><p>Please bring a sketchbook, pencils and a pen to sketch and make notes. A camera is also useful to photograph your work.</p><p><strong>What to Wear</strong><br/>Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes—no sandals or open-toed footwear. Old work clothes or overalls are also advised.</p><p><strong>Health and Safety</strong><br/>Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as facemasks for use when working with materials that may release airborne particles, will be provided and must be worn as required.</p><p>The City Lit sculpture department offers a wide range of exciting courses that will allow you to progress from beginner to advanced and learn a range of techniques. After this course, you may wish to join a similar course to develop your skills further or try something completely different. We offer courses in prop making, metal, clay, carving in stone and wood, mould making and casting, and much more! Alternatively, you may wish to progress onto the year-long City Lit Sculpture course VU841, which helps you build your individual sculpture practice.</p><p> </p><p>Please ask your tutor for advice, browse the City Lit website for inspiration, or contact our visual arts team by emailing visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or calling 0203 880 2415 Monday - Friday, 11 am - 4 pm. </p><p><br/>The in-person information desk (at our Keeley Street campus) is open Monday - Friday from 12 pm - 1:55 pm & 3 pm - 5 pm. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday from 10:30 am -12 pm & 3 pm -5 pm. General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday between 12:00 - 13:55 & 15:00 - 17:00. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday between 10:30 - 12:00 & 15:00 - 17:00</p>3D and digital designModel & prop makingvirtual399499324VU106,VU980NONEMon-Fri,Fri27/07/26 - 31/07/2610:00 - 17:0010:0017:005 sessions55-10 weeksWeekdayKSKeeley StreetRo Sylvester,Naoko TagaiBeginners, Some experience, Advanced, Suitable for all,BeginnersAvailable courses,No longer available2026-07-27T00:00:00+00:00,2026-01-16T00:00:00+00:00Daytime,EveningJul 2026,Jan 2026Art & design499499Introduction to prop making for film, TV, theatre and displayintroduction-to-prop-making-for-film-tv-theatre-and-display/vu106-2526,introduction-to-prop-making-for-film-tv-theatre-and-display/vu980-2526Learn a range of sculptural techniques that are used in the ever expanding film, TV and theatre prop making industry. Explore a range of sculpting and casting methods and fabricating techniques, and experiment with materials.,Do you ever dream of conjuring up the props for Harry Potter, Doctor Who or West End musicals? Are you an animator who wants to make props for your animation film, or are you interested in a career in window display? You will explore techniques used by the professionals to produce effective props and sets. Get hands-on experience of sculpting, fabricating, casting, mould making and using paint effects. Learn about the demands of the industry from a specialist tutor, and have a go at translating your own ideas into 3D.0000-Available|2026-07-27 00:00:00For those with an interest in prop making, or those wishing to start out on the path to working as a prop maker in film, TV and theatre. This intensive week long introduction to prop making techniques will focus on responding to a given brief and introduce the demands of the prop making industry. You will explore a range of sculptural materials and techniques that are employed to make props in these industries including, sculpting, fabricating, casting, mould making and paint effects and finishes. You will be introduced to the possible progression routes of further study at a higher level and/or potential employment avenues in this area.,This is course is very accessible, hands-on and friendly! You will explore a range of materials and techniques including carving and sculpting, fabricating, mould making, casting, finishing and paint effects. You will be encouraged to develop your personal interpretation and interests throughout the course.Learn a range of sculptural techniques that are used in the ever expanding film, TV and theatre prop making industry. Explore a range of sculpting and casting methods and fabricating techniques, and experiment with materials.,Do you ever dream of conjuring up the props for Harry Potter, Doctor Who or West End musicals? Are you an animator who wants to make props for your animation film, or are you interested in a career in window display? You will explore techniques used by the professionals to produce effective props and sets. Get hands-on experience of sculpting, fabricating, casting, mould making and using paint effects. Learn about the demands of the industry from a specialist tutor, and have a go at translating your own ideas into 3D.Working to a given brief, you will explore and experiment in the following disciplines in relation to prop making:<br/>- Sculpting in a variety of different materials<br/>- Mould making and casting<br/>- Fabricating<br/>- Paint effects and finishes<br/>- Carpentry<br/>- Pattern cutting in foam<br/>- Working with scale.,- Sculpting in clay and Sculpey<br/>- Carving in polystyrene and styrofoam<br/>- Mould making and casting<br/>- Life casting<br/>- Fabricating<br/>- Paint effects and finishes<br/>- Contextual research.- Have a good understanding of the demands of a specific prop making project as appropriate to the industries of film, TV and theatre.<br/>- Use a range of appropriate techniques and processes.<br/>- Gain an understanding of the requirements of developing a prop making brief.<br/>- Understand the importance of experimentation and record keeping.<br/>- Gain an understanding of possible progression routes within the subject.,- Sculpt objects in clay or Sculpey.<br/>- Carve a basic sculpt in polystyrene or Styrofoam.<br/>- Make a one-piece mould and cast in Jesmonite.<br/>- Understand the concept of life casting and make at least one cast.<br/>- Understand the concept of fabrication and manipulation of various materials.<br/>- Use paint effects, finishes and experiments effectively.<br/>- Identify areas within the prop making industry that might use your specific area of expertise.No previous experience is necessary. This is an intensive introductory level course. There is a follow on course to develop your skills further if you wish to continue your study in this area.,This is a beginner's course, so no previous experience is necessary. Although those with some experience are welcome.- Each day will introduce new materials, processes and tools with the last day being a self driven micro-project using the knowledge learnt over the previous days.<br/>- You will be taught by demonstration followed by practical application.<br/>- Briefs and projects will be set by the tutor.<br/>- You will be advised to utilise London's vibrant museums and art galleries for inspiration for your final day's self driven project. The British Museum is just around the corner from the Keeley Street campus.<br/>- You will receive one to one guidance and there will be group discussions.<br/>- You will be shown examples of work by practising prop makers and you will receive information about progression routes available to you.,You will be introduced to new materials and techniques at each session, and encouraged to develop these to the best of your ability. You will be taught by demonstration followed by practical application, and given short tasks to follow. We understand that you might be more comfortable with some processes than others, but encourage you to have an open mind in order to experience all techniques and therefore gain the most from this course.<br/><br/>You will receive one-to-one guidance and there will also be group discussions. We also encourage independent research and investigation outside of the class, but this is not compulsory. You will be shown examples of work from practising prop makers and you will receive information about further progression routes available.<p><strong>Materials and Equipment</strong><br/>General tools and equipment will be provided. The course fee covers most of the cost of materials for sampling and experimentation.</p><p>Please bring a sketchbook, pencils and a pen to sketch and make notes. A camera is also useful to photograph your work.</p><p><strong>What to Wear</strong><br/>Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes—no sandals or open-toed footwear. Old work clothes or overalls are also advised.</p><p><strong>Health and Safety</strong><br/>Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as facemasks for use when working with materials that may release airborne particles, will be provided and must be worn as required.</p>,<p><strong>Materials and Equipment</strong></p><p>Basic materials are supplied, although you will be asked to bring in images and/or objects to support various tasks.</p><p>Please bring a sketchbook, pencils and a pen to sketch and make notes. A camera is also useful to photograph your work.</p><p><strong>What to Wear</strong><br/>Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes—no sandals or open-toed footwear. Old work clothes or overalls are also advised.</p><p><strong>Health and Safety</strong><br/>Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as facemasks for use when working with materials that may release airborne particles, will be provided and must be worn as required.</p><p>The City Lit sculpture department offers a wide range of exciting courses that will allow you to progress from beginner to advanced and learn a range of techniques. After this course, you may wish to join a similar course to develop your skills further or try something completely different. We offer courses in prop making, metal, clay, carving in stone and wood, mould making and casting, and much more! Alternatively, you may wish to progress onto the year-long City Lit Sculpture course VU841, which helps you build your individual sculpture practice.</p><p> </p><p>Please ask your tutor for advice, browse the City Lit website for inspiration, or contact our visual arts team by emailing visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or calling 0203 880 2415 Monday - Friday, 11 am - 4 pm. </p><p><br/>The in-person information desk (at our Keeley Street campus) is open Monday - Friday from 12 pm - 1:55 pm &amp; 3 pm - 5 pm. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday from 10:30 am -12 pm &amp; 3 pm -5 pm. General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday between 12:00 - 13:55 &amp; 15:00 - 17:00. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday between 10:30 - 12:00 &amp; 15:00 - 17:00</p>3D and digital designModel & prop makingconfigurable
17261639Model & prop makinghttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/art-and-design/3d-and-digital-design/model-and-prop-making1/2/285/1132/1639/17261/Courses/Art & design/3D and digital design/Model & prop making
