I build props for film. I work direct for production, instead of an outside prop house, which is unusual in my area. Sometimes I work in a shop, sometimes I work in the lock-up (the locked room where all the props are kept).

A huge part of my job is making new things look used or old. It’s called ‘break down’, or ‘aging’. Even things you wouldn’t think of need a little bit of scuffing and dirt, or it’s weirdly apparent.

Another large part of my job is ‘greeking’, which is covering up logos and brands and disguising noticeable trademark things on products they want to use on screen.

The third big part of my job is making stunt weapons. Any time you see someone rolling around with a gun or a knife on their belt, I would bet you good money it’s made of foam or rubber. I make a lot of those. If I do it right, you won’t be able to tell the difference unless you’re holding them.

The smallest part of my job is building cool shit. When they just can’t find or buy that special prop, I get to build it. That’s the most fun part of my job.

I work a standard 12 hour day. I’m frequently working in badly heated warehouses with rat infestations. But man, I really like it.