Our Short Courses

Throughout the week, participants will gain experience in mould-making, casting, and finishing techniques commonly used in prop fabrication. The course also examines the importance of surface treatment, painting, and detailing in achieving convincing on-screen results. In addition, guidance is provided on documenting completed work through professional photography for portfolios.

Topics covered include:

- Introduction to prop making for film and television
- Tools, materials, and workshop techniques used in prop fabrication
- Silicone mould making processes
- Casting props using resin
- Surface preparation, painting, and art working techniques
- Detailing and finishing props for screen use
- Photographing props professionally for portfolios

By the end of the course, participants will have a practical understanding of key prop-making processes and will have developed techniques that can support their work within film, television, and related creative industries. The course is ideal for professionals working in art departments, prop teams, model making, scenic art, or related disciplines who wish to strengthen their hands-on making skills.

This five-day intensive course enables participants to deepen their understanding of how the Art Department operates and strengthen the practical skills needed to progress within it. Whether you are working in a junior art department role, transitioning from a related department, or looking to formalise on-set knowledge, the course offers a focused opportunity to upskill in a collaborative, small-group environment.

The programme explores the key stages of the design and dressing process—from interpreting a script through to preparing a set for shooting—while providing a clearer understanding of the structure, responsibilities, and workflow of the Art Department within a production. Participants will examine how production design decisions develop across pre-production and filming, and how the department works closely with construction, props, locations, and production teams.

Through demonstrations and practical exercises, the course will cover a range of techniques used by professional breakdown artists, including dyeing, painting, fabric manipulation, and airbrushing. Participants will also learn how to create specific effects such as blood staining and fabric ageing, while gaining an understanding of how different materials respond to treatment.

Topics covered include:

- Introduction to costume breakdown for film and television
- Materials orientation and understanding different fabric types
- Dyeing and painting techniques for fabric treatment
- Airbrush techniques for subtle ageing and surface detail
- Distressing costumes to create wear and damage
- Enhancing and manipulating fabrics for character storytelling
- Ageing techniques to create realistic, lived-in garments
- Creating blood stains and other narrative effects

By the end of the course, participants will have developed a practical toolkit of breakdown techniques and a deeper understanding of how costume treatment supports character and story on screen.

The course is ideal for professionals working in costume departments, wardrobe, theatre, fashion, or related creative fields who want to expand their practical skills in costume breakdown.