Introduction to prop making for film, TV, theatre and display

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...

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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.

  • Start Date: 27 Jul 2026
    End Date: 31 Jul 2026
    This course is full
    Mon-Fri (Daytime): 10:00 - 17:00
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 5 sessions
    Course Code: VU106
    Tutors:  Ro Sylvester
    Full fee £499.00 Senior fee £399.00 Concession £324.00
  • Start Date: 15 Jan 2027
    End Date: 19 Mar 2027
    Fri (Evening): 18:00 - 21:00
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 10 sessions (over 10 weeks)
    Course Code: VU980
    Tutors:  Naoko Tagai
    Full fee £499.00 Senior fee £399.00 Concession £324.00
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  • Start Date: 26 Jul 2027
    End Date: 30 Jul 2027
    Mon-Fri (Daytime): 10:00 - 17:00
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 5 sessions
    Course Code: VU106
    Full fee £499.00 Senior fee £399.00 Concession £324.00
    Add to Wish List

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.

Book your place
In stock
SKU
248541
Full fee £499.00 Senior fee £399.00 Concession £324.00

What is the course about?

This is course is very accessible, hands-on and friendly! You will explore a range of materials and techniques including carving, sculpting, fabricating, mould making, casting, finishing and paint effects. You will be encouraged to develop your personal interpretation and interests throughout the course.

What will we cover?

- Sculpting in clay and Sculpey
- Carving in polystyrene and Styrofoam
- Mould making and casting
- Life casting
- Fabricating
- Paint effects and finishes
- Contextual research

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Sculpt objects in clay or Sculpey.
- Carve a basic sculpt in polystyrene or Styrofoam.
- Make a one-piece mould and cast in Jesmonite.
- Understand the concept of life casting and make at least one cast.
- Understand the concept of fabrication and manipulation of various materials.
- Use paint effects, finishes and experiments effectively.
- Identify areas within the prop making industry that might use your specific area of expertise.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is a beginner's course, so no previous experience is necessary. Although those with some experience are welcome to join.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

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.

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.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Materials and Equipment
Basic materials are supplied, although you will be asked to bring in images and/or objects to support various tasks.

Please bring a sketchbook, pencils, and a pen for sketching and note-taking. A camera or smartphone is also useful for documenting your work in progress.

What to Wear
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes-no sandals or open-toed footwear. Wearing old clothes or overalls is strongly recommended, as some materials may stain or damage fabric.

Health and Safety
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided and must be worn where required. This includes items such as facemasks when working with materials that may release airborne particles.

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.

Ro Sylvester See more See less
Naoko Tagai See more See less

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.