Overview 

 

This standard is about making, finishing and adapting props.

You will need to select and prepare materials appropriate for the items, select and use hand and machine skills, processes and techniques to make and finish props in line with the production requirements and constraints to the agreed standard, within budget and on schedule.

 

Performance criteria

You must be able to:

  1. interpret designers', or director’s specifications
  2. liaise with departments, suppliers, manufacturers
  3. identify the characteristics and costs of materials and confirm requirements with decision makers
  4. use the required tools and personal protective equipment (PPE)
  5. select materials and finishes against the construction drawings, models and plans and in line with sustainability requirements
  6. run the making process so that materials, finishes, tools and equipment and workspace are available when required
  7. assemble or adapt props and dressing to production schedule
  8. distress, age or adapt specific props as required
  9. check and confirm that props reflect the style and functionality agreed in the original specifications
  10. test props for ease of use and durability during the rehearsal process
  11. adapt props to accommodate changes in creative direction and meet practical requirements 
  12. comply with legislation, regulations, organisational requirements and codes of practice  

 

Knowledge and understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. the requirements for making, finishing and adapting props from specifications in the brief
  2. the requirements of the production schedule and deadlines for making, adapting and finishing props
  3. the required facilities, including their safety features
  4. how to determine the skills and methods required to make specific props
  5. how to use tools and materials safely according to legislation, regulations and manufacturers' instructions
  6. the alternatives to making props, if unforeseen issues or changes require it
  7. the range of materials and components used for making, adapting and finishing props
  8. the range of techniques used for making, adapting and finishing props
  9. how the properties and characteristics of materials can affect the choice of making and finishing techniques
  10. the range of equipment and machinery commonly used for making, adapting and finishing props
  11. the legislation, regulations, organisational requirements and codes of practice
  12. the importance of checking and maintaining props during the rehearsal process
  13. when specialist skills, testing or training are required
  14. how to safely store and dispose of hazardous materials
  15. the importance of disposal and recycling of waste in line with industry standards for example the Green Book