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A Prop-er Cosplay: Tips for Making Props

Prop making has always been kind of a challenge for me. The skills, tools, or materials are just a step or ten out of my comfort zone. So, what does one do if they want to add a prop to the costume? Here are some of my suggestions. 

Purchase the Prop Commercially 

Store bought Sword 
The character or costume may be popular enough where the iconic prop is available commercially. They can come in different price ranges too which will affect the quality or final look. 

Hire a Prop Maker

Maybe hire someone who knows what they're doing...

If the character or costume is a bit more obscure or niche, you can hire an artist/craftsman/Prop Maker to recreate it for you. Commissioning a prop from someone might be an unfamiliar process and knowing how to find a competent artist in your area can be a challenge. But at least we have the internet these days. 

Some independent prop makers may have an online store which is kind of like purchasing the prop commercially. 

Modify a Toy or other Closely related item

Spray painted toy gun that makes woo-woo noises.

Particularly for weapons, getting a toy sword or crown or some such is usually an inexpensive way to get a decent base to work from. You may need to repaint it or modify it in some way to look closer to what you want. 

3D Print the Prop



I think I've been pretty clear about my love of 3D Printing. If you can find a 3D model, you can print it somehow. There is a learning curve to 3D printing, but I think it's a little easier to practice than carving or learning to sculpt. (Both of these are things I want to get better at but...these 3D printed training wheels have spoiled me.) 3D printing can be relatively inexpensive depending on what printer you use and materials you print with. It can still be a lot of work to make the finished product look good. I certainly haven't perfected it. 

Find a Tutorial and Follow it

Took an online course on Art Dolls

Okay this is kind of cheap advice, but sometimes, there's no better way than to try and do it yourself! Tutorials are a great asset for learning how to make a specific item. But it can also introduce you to a new skill that you may need to perfect before attempting the final item. The final prop may not come out how you expect or want, but lessons learned are worth it. Usually. I mean, if it doesn't look right I'm just frustrated. Ha ha.



Sometimes you may just need to play to your strengths. If you can't 3D print, carve or sculpt a sword...maybe try sewing or knitting one. (I've seen patterns for Thor's hammer on Ravelry so yeah...think outside the box sometimes.) 
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