SUSTAINABLE PROP MAKING

At Rushing’s Rarities, sustainability starts with using what already exists. Whenever a project allows it, our Portland workshop builds film props, replicas, and curios with reclaimed, secondhand, salvaged, or repurposed materials—chosen for their character as much as for giving useful material a second life.

RECLAIMED BY DESIGN

Material choices are made project by project. Wand wood can come from fallen branches, pruning, or damaged furniture. Some mummified props use repurposed grocery-bag plastic, and flame-effect lantern housings have been rescued from former wedding décor. These materials often bring wear, texture, and history that would otherwise have to be artificially recreated.

MATERIAL CHOICES THAT SERVE THE PROP

Reclaimed material is considered alongside safety, durability, handling, finish, schedule, and the visual requirements of the piece. When a reclaimed option would compromise the job the prop needs to do, we use new material rather than force the choice.

SECONDHAND ANIMAL MATERIALS

When a design calls for leather, antler, feathers, or another animal-derived material, we source secondhand or reclaimed options whenever practical—often from pre-owned garments, furniture, or décor. Creature and body-part props are fabricated replicas; reclaimed animal byproducts may be used only as materials or details within a prop.

ARE ALL OUR PROPS MADE FROM RECYCLED MATERIALS?

No. We use reclaimed, secondhand, salvaged, and repurposed materials when they make sense for the project, but some builds require new materials for safety, durability, or a specific visual result. We do not claim that every piece is recycled or that our workshop is zero-waste.

BUILD SOMETHING WITH A SECOND LIFE

Have a prop project where reclaimed materials could add history, texture, or character? See our custom film prop services, or request a project quote and tell us what you’re making.