Casting

Term from Prop Making industry explained for recruiters

Casting is a common technique used in prop making and special effects where liquid materials are poured into molds to create solid objects. This process is essential for making multiple copies of props, costume pieces, or special effects elements. Think of it like making ice cubes - you pour water into a mold and it becomes solid - but instead of water, prop makers use materials like resin, silicone, or plaster. This technique is widely used in theater, film, cosplay, and themed entertainment industries.

Examples in Resumes

Created detailed character masks using Casting techniques with silicone and resin materials

Developed efficient Casting processes that reduced production time by 30%

Supervised Casting department for major theatrical productions

Typical job title: "Prop Makers"

Also try searching for:

Mold Maker Special Effects Artist Prop Artist Fabricator Model Maker Casting Technician FX Artist

Where to Find Prop Makers

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage a large-scale casting project with a tight deadline?

Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, team coordination, material selection, quality control processes, and time management strategies. Should mention experience with different casting materials and troubleshooting common issues.

Q: What safety protocols would you implement in a casting workshop?

Expected Answer: Should explain ventilation requirements, personal protective equipment, material handling procedures, and emergency protocols. Should demonstrate knowledge of material safety data sheets and workshop safety standards.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when choosing casting materials for a project?

Expected Answer: Should discuss budget considerations, durability requirements, curing time, detail reproduction, and final use of the prop. Should mention experience with different types of molds and casting materials.

Q: How do you handle common casting problems like air bubbles or incomplete curing?

Expected Answer: Should explain troubleshooting techniques, prevention methods, and solutions for common casting issues. Should demonstrate understanding of material properties and casting techniques.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the basic process of making a simple two-part mold?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the steps of creating a basic mold, including preparing the original object, adding release agents, and pouring the mold material in stages.

Q: What safety equipment do you use when casting?

Expected Answer: Should list basic safety equipment like gloves, safety glasses, respirator, and protective clothing, and explain when each is necessary.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic mold making and casting techniques
  • Knowledge of common casting materials
  • Basic workshop safety
  • Simple prop reproduction

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex mold making
  • Material selection expertise
  • Problem-solving casting issues
  • Time and resource management

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Advanced casting techniques
  • Team leadership
  • Workshop safety management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic safety procedures
  • Unfamiliarity with common casting materials
  • Lack of attention to detail
  • No experience with different types of molds