Animatronics and Automata

I like things that move on their own. An automaton is a self-operating machine, usually through mechanical means. Animatronics is a more specialized type of automaton; it is a form of mechanized puppet. Neither of these should be confused with a robot, which is an object which can sense and/or react to its environment. Here [...]
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Leonard Nimoy and Homemade Special Effects

I’m still on my honeymoon, so until I get back, enjoy Leonard Nimoy learning about non-computerized special effects circa 1985:
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Another Friday Link-o-Rama

I’m on my honeymoon, so I thought I’d save time with another quick list of links. JT Ringer pointed me to this page on Bookbinding which came in handy on a recent project at the Santa Fe Opera. Craftster – In addition to the blog, there is a large community, articles and tutorials, and a [...]
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I’ll take “Swords” for $100

Let’s face it. Swords are cool. Luckily for props people, swords pop up all the time on prop lists. I learned some basic swordmaking techniques from Tom Fiocchi while at Ohio University. Usually, when I’m asked to make a sword, it’s a decorative or trick sword with a very show-specific look. If it’s for stage [...]
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Costumes and Scenery for Amateurs

From Costumes and Scenery for Amateurs, by Constance D’Arcy Mackay, 1915 (pp 93-95) Properties and How to Make Them Use care in the selection of your properties. Study your text. Avoid anachronisms. Do not use muskets and pipes in a scene that is laid before muskets were invented and tobacco discovered. Do not use modern [...]
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  • About

    Eric Hart

    I am Eric Hart, the assistant props master at the Public Theater in New York City, and a longtime prop maker.

    This site is a way to share my work and the things I've learned over the years. It's also a way to connect with other prop makers, props masters, and artisans, as well as a collection of all things of interest to props people from around the internet.

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