Worbla
Worbla is a popular material used by costume and prop makers to create professional-looking costumes, armor, and accessories. It's a type of thermoplastic that becomes moldable when heated with a heat gun or warm water, and hardens when it cools down. Prop makers prefer Worbla because it's lightweight, can be reshaped multiple times if mistakes happen, and doesn't require special tools or protective equipment to use. Similar materials include EVA foam and Wonderflex. These materials are essential in creating costumes and props for theater productions, cosplay, film, and entertainment industries.
Examples in Resumes
Created detailed armor pieces using Worbla for theater production costumes
Designed and fabricated props with Worbla and EVA foam for comic convention displays
Led workshops teaching Worbla sculpting techniques to junior costume makers
Typical job title: "Prop Makers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Prop Makers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Events & Conventions
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a large-scale prop making project with multiple team members?
Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, material cost estimation, team coordination, quality control processes, and meeting production deadlines while maintaining safety standards.
Q: What techniques would you use to create a complex armor piece that needs to be both durable and lightweight?
Expected Answer: Should explain material combinations, structural support methods, comfort considerations, and finishing techniques that ensure both durability and wearability.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you determine the right thickness and layering of Worbla for different projects?
Expected Answer: Should explain how project requirements influence material thickness choices, discuss cost-effectiveness, and demonstrate knowledge of structural integrity needs.
Q: What methods do you use to achieve a smooth finish on Worbla pieces?
Expected Answer: Should describe various finishing techniques, primers, and painting methods, showing understanding of professional-level completion standards.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic tools do you need to work with Worbla?
Expected Answer: Should list essential tools like heat guns, scissors, craft knife, cutting mat, and explain basic safety precautions when working with heated materials.
Q: How do you prevent Worbla from sticking to itself during heating and shaping?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic handling techniques, such as using parchment paper or cornstarch, and proper heating temperatures.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic material handling and shaping
- Simple pattern making and cutting
- Basic safety procedures
- Following existing designs and templates
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex shape forming and detailing
- Material combination techniques
- Budget management for materials
- Creating original designs
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management and team leadership
- Advanced finishing techniques
- Complex costume and prop engineering
- Training and mentoring junior makers
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic safety procedures with heat tools
- Lack of experience with cost estimation and material planning
- Unable to show previous work examples or portfolio
- No understanding of durability requirements for wearable pieces
