We’ve previously covered the power of props<\/a>\u00a0and a few great resources for making your own. In this piece, we’re going to look at a few advanced tutorials for adding character to your props. These tricks can really add depth to period pieces and futuristic films, when props need to look much older than they really are.<\/p>\n In this video from Tested<\/a>, Adam Savage talks about many of his techniques for weathering his prop builds. This includes his research both online and in garage sales. His goal is to add a story to each prop<\/strong>. What type of labels would be appropriate? How would it have been shipped?<\/p>\n Adam Savage<\/a> is a real master prop builder. Most know him for his work on Mythbusters<\/em>, but he actually spent time building props and models<\/strong> for ILM, working on films like the Star Wars<\/em><\/a> prequels and Galaxy Quest<\/em><\/a>.<\/p>\n Some of his suggestions include adding stickers and removing them,\u00a0<\/strong>leaving behind the residue. He uses yellow, sienna, and black paint to age pieces \u2014 but he first mists the prop down to keep the paint from adhering properly.<\/p>\n Savage also uses plenty of sand paper<\/strong> to add authenticity, and throws in fuller’s earth powder<\/a> to look like dust. He uses chains and wood\u00a0to beat objects, adding years of wear and tear. Finally, he adds a touch of coffee.\u00a0The goal is to dirty a prop too much, and then try to clean it as best as you can.<\/strong> The result gives you a realistic looking prop.<\/p>\n
\nWeathering\u00a0Tips and Tricks<\/h3>\n
![\"How](\"https:\/\/pbblogassets.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2016\/03\/Weathering_Tested.jpg\" "\\"How")
\nImage via Tested<\/em><\/p>\n