Workshop skills
I feel at home in any workshop! I take on all kinds of project so in turn I’ve learned the necessary skills to execute it from start to finish. I’m always looking to grow that list and i’m known to pick up, adapt and master new techniques quickly. I can work in many departments of the industry and once I lock on to a project I run like a dynamo!
Here is a more detailed rundown of what I can offer:
Concept – often a project concept exist in my head rather than on paper but I’m known to make sketches and full digital renders of the intended final result. I can visualise an idea and quickly sketch or create digital mockups. I like accuracy and I do plenty of research to achieve the closest possible result. I’m also experienced at eliminating potential design flaws before the project reaches production.
Woodwork – I love working with wood, whether its for constructing a workspace, a set, furniture building & restoration or for more artistic uses. I can build an antique style table as easily as I can make an ultra-strong heavy prop rig transportation skate.
Digital design – I often use Photoshop to create mockups of how a project may look in various materials. I also use it to create full graphic renders, laser cutting designs, replicating printable graphics or signs and prop parts as well as digital artwork.
Paint – I love getting creative in the paint booth. Whether its a finish job on a restoration or a weathering down job I have a large array of techniques to really make that project pop! Set decoration, vehicle body restoration, or just a dry brush touch up for on screen enhancement. Emulating effects like wood, rust, stone or chrome, from prep to presentation, heavy duty tupac paint to fine airbrushing, hand painting to the final finish, I’m in my element in the paint room!
Model making – whether its a master to be cast, a prototype, a miniature replica or a working duplicate I’ve built many models using a wide selection of techniques.
Fabrication – Whether its a framework for a model or a full build i’m well versed in sourcing and safely using many materials either exclusively or together to achieve the ideal result.
Mould making – I’m competant in various techniques of silicone mould making common in props & SFX. This includes using routed wood, fibreglass, clay and whatever else I need to get the best possible impression.
Casting – I can cast in many materials for hero, stunt, breakaway props, art pieces, vehicle parts and action sports equipment. I often make and use armatures from wire, wood, machined metal, carbon fibre, GRP or fibreglass for extra strength. I also frequently use powder coating or paint in moulds to either improve handling durability or create effects and textures like chrome plating.
Mechanical work – whether it’s vehicle work, engineering a new project, building a wire driven puppet rig or repairing or maintaining workshop equipment or a modification I’ve a good understanding of machines and a rich mechanical background. It never takes me long to crack a problem!
Prep work – boring but vital! Cleaning up casting seams and blending, sanding and filling, , preparing an item for moulding, masking and degreasing, preparing a workspace for a messy project – I don’t cut corners on prep work.
Textiles – I’ve plenty of experience in using many different textiles. Leatherwork, sewing, stitching, costumes, and most kinds of fabric. I’ve coloured, distressed, replicated and restored many fabric based products from vehicle interiors to vintage clothing.
Electronics – I have a background in broadcasting engineering and vehicle electrics. I often use electronics in props, projects and vehicle work. I frequently find creative ways of adding the effect required.
Sourcing – An age old technique in the film industry, i’m very experienced at visualising the construction of a project and sourcing the parts and materials I need to fabricate it. Ususally if the ideal isn’t available at short notice I come up with a more accessible and equally effective and alternative.
Teamwork – I often work alone on projects but I also enjoy working as part of a team. Whether it’s leading the project or being a team member I believe that good communication, mutual respect and the willingness to put our heads together is key to the best final result. And if we can have a laugh while we’re creating it’s even better!
Problem solving – My key skill is lateral thinking which has proven instrumental to problem solving. Paint techniques, mechanical solutions, repairs or concept or unusual mishaps – if you get stuck on a project I can often offer a way out from outside the box.
Workshop discipline – I operate workshop tools and heavy machinery and handle hazardous chemicals and materials safely. I keep a safe and organised work space and I always practice my own strict regime of standard workshop safety for myself and my colleagues. I have my own safety equipment and I make good use of it.