Leon making cosplay props such as Kafka’s katana sword from the videogame Honkai Star Rail. — Photos courtesy of Leon Noel
Propman a special craftsman in cosplay and movies
IN the film and television industry as well as hobbies like cosplay, props and costumes make a huge difference to the visual experience.
This is where prop makers shine in their work, making things look as realistic as possible.
Sarawakian Leon Thian, better known as Leon Noel, is a prop maker who has been making items like guns, swords, furniture and costumes since 2009, the year he got into cosplay.
“I pretty much learnt everything by myself and with some prop maker friends. Back then it was very hard to find any tutorials or tips online.
“There were very limited resources available so most of the time we had to figure out most of the methods we are using right now by ourselves,” he said.
Among some of his inspirations were Weta Workshop (which designed and built the Lord of The Rings movie props and sets), Stan Winston School (which built most of Hollywood’s props), CosCat Props from Taiwan and American special effects designer Adam Savage.
Leon said the material he usually uses are EVA foam, although he has also built with materials like cardboard, mounting board, MDF board, polystyrene foam, wood, fibreglass resin and epoxy resin.
Aqua’s Rainfell Keyblade prop from the Kingdom Hearts videogame series made by Leon.
“Of all these materials, EVA foam is still my favourite material, because it is lightweight and easy to work with. I have already developed my own system and workflow to work around EVA foam props.
“Another reason why I would not switch to 3D printing material, which is the trend now, is that I don’t get any satisfaction from just printing and sanding it. I like the feeling of building something from scratch,” he added.
Leon said his work process for a prop begins with lots of research, including pictures and videos of the item from various angles.
“After that, I would normally do a simulation in my head. Then, I would start designing the templates on my computer.
“I will print the template out, transfer it to the material and start to build around it. Lastly, I paint the prop and then I’m done.
“Normally it takes one to two weeks to complete one prop. Smaller props might take only three days,” he said.
One of his most challenging props was the Judge of the Battlefield’s Legion Commander armour, which was the biggest piece of armour he had ever built.
From making props and costumes for cosplay use, Leon embarked on the journey to make movie props in 2019.
Alisa’s God Arc weapon from the God Eater videogame series made by Leon.
“I was the set fabricator for the Hollywood movie Rajah/Edge of the World that was shot in Kuching. I was in charge of making fabric-related sets and fabric props such as napkins, handkerchiefs, pillow covers, bed sheets and curtains.
“Recently I just wrapped up a zombie telemovie shoot for a local TV station. It will air during the Chinese New Year next year. I was the art director – in charge of the overall zombie look, set design and props,” he said.
Despite being busy with all his projects, Leon also manages a YouTube channel to showcase prop-making tutorials.
He said the path he has chosen is tough, as the local market is small and niche.
“However, because it is a very niche market, it means there is less competition. Only the truly skillful ones will be able to shine among all,” he said.
“For those who aspire to be on this path, I will always recommend them to strengthen the very fundamental skill of doing clean cuts and seams. It doesn’t matter how big your props are going to be, it will always come down to how well you can build them.”
On what he hopes to see in the future of prop-making here, Leon said, “I hope to see our own Weta Workshop or Stan Winston School, making breathtaking movie props for all the movies and bringing them up to the international level.”
