I want to make a movie prop. Where do I start?

Question by Amy S: I want to make a movie prop. Where do I start?
I’m planning on making the armor pieces to Kroenen’s armor out of resin (the clockwork guy in Hellboy). I need to know how to begin. Should I start with a clay prototype, or what other material can I use? I need to make a mold so that I can use that mold to cast the resin in the finished shape and detail that. I have four pieces to make (ask me for a pic) and attach together with hinges. I also have to put leather pieces on it as well. I am choosing resin so it’ll have some noticeable weight and not be easily breakable. The pieces have to be at least a quarter of an inch thick on the base, with raised relief scrollwork. This is a project for a collector, and I want to make sure I get it perfect. If anyone knows the process of handmade molding, please please help!!

Best answer:

Answer by steve w
Starting with clay is a good way to begin. I’d use a urethane mold backed by plaster.

With urethane you can use actual gears or whatever you need and as long as you don’t have undercuts will pick up everydetail in what you’re doing. Backing it with plaster just adds strength and keeps things from distorting.

Also, If you’re showing anything mechanical you may want to work it out that you can use real mechanincal parts to finish it off.
It doesn’t have to move but adding real bits to it will make it appear more “real”.

Check out the monster makers web site and the monster list of halloween projects. Both have more info on this and the monster makers is a good supply source.

good luck

Add your own answer in the comments!