Private Film Set - Washington
Our products often feature in films and stage productions. We are well known for our ultra-realistic replicas that are ready in a timeframe that works for project deadlines.
For a recent film set, our customer needed a series of large logs as props. Given the size and specific details required, real logs weren’t an option, so they turned to us to create artificial replicas that would look indistinguishable from the real thing, even in close-up shots.
To ensure the logs would fit perfectly with the film’s setting, we spent time researching the exact look needed. After creating several mock-ups and narrowing down the best option, we faced a unique opportunity following a large storm in the UK. Numerous fallen trees were available, and we were granted permission to take moulds from the pine trees. Using these moulds, along with our in-house sculpting skills, we were able to create a highly detailed replica bark.
The logs began as polystyrene tubes, precision-cut using our CNC cutter for accuracy. We then reinforced the polystyrene, hand-applied the bark, and capped the ends to replicate a freshly sawn log. A technique called ‘dry brushing’ was employed to bring out texture and detail in the bark, a process that took considerable time and skill.
The final result was a collection of ultra-realistic logs that even fooled our own team. Despite their large size, the replicas are incredibly lightweight, making them easy to move around the set. It was an exciting project to be part of, and we look forward to seeing the logs on screen. With tight deadlines, it was a true team effort, with every member of the business contributing to the success of this project.
