Recruiter's Glossary

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Paper Props

Term from Prop Making industry explained for recruiters

Paper Props refers to items made from paper or cardboard that are used in theater, film, or television productions. These could be anything from fake documents and letters to books, newspapers, or maps that actors interact with on screen or stage. Prop makers who specialize in paper props create these items to look authentic for the time period and setting of the production, whether it's a modern business document or an ancient scroll. This is different from general prop making, as it requires specific skills in paper crafting, aging techniques, and historical document recreation.

Examples in Resumes

Created historically accurate Paper Props including letters and documents for period drama series

Designed and fabricated Paper Props and Period Documents for Broadway theatrical productions

Led team of artists in creating aged Paper Props and Historical Documents for museum exhibitions

Typical job title: "Paper Prop Makers"

Also try searching for:

Prop Maker Theatrical Props Artisan Film Props Specialist Document Props Artist Special Props Fabricator Period Props Maker Graphics Props Artist

Where to Find Paper Prop Makers

Professional Organizations

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Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach creating period-accurate documents for a historical drama set in multiple time periods?

Expected Answer: A senior paper props maker should discuss research methods, paper aging techniques, period-appropriate materials, and managing a team to handle different eras simultaneously. They should mention attention to historical accuracy and working within production timelines.

Q: Describe a challenging paper props project you managed and how you solved any problems that arose.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience, problem-solving abilities, budget management, and coordination with other departments like art direction and production design.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What techniques do you use to age paper props?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain various aging methods like tea/coffee staining, distressing, weathering, and how to make new paper look authentically old while maintaining durability for handling.

Q: How do you ensure continuity when making multiple copies of the same paper prop?

Expected Answer: Should discuss documentation methods, photography, careful record-keeping, and techniques for making identical copies while maintaining quality control.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic materials do you use for creating paper props?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list common materials like different paper types, inks, adhesives, and basic tools, showing understanding of when to use each.

Q: How do you research the correct look for period paper props?

Expected Answer: Should mention using historical references, museums, online archives, and working with the production's research department to ensure accuracy.