Halloween Universe
DIY PropsIntermediate

PROP LAB: Building Star Wars Cargo Crates

by VanOaksProps

Embedded from YouTube. This video belongs to its creator; Halloween Universe indexes it as a discovery resource.View original ↗

Difficulty
Intermediate
Est. cost
$30–$80
Length
8:19
Views
12,510
Published
Jun 2022

What this video covers

VanOaksProps builds a pair of Star Wars-themed cargo crates to complement a dedicated prop display case, inspired by a visit to Star Wars Celebration Anaheim. The crates are shaped using an Inventables X-Carve CNC router, then finished with layered spray paints, wax paint, and weathering techniques to achieve a battle-worn, screen-accurate look. Liquid latex and steel wool add tactile texture before the final paint stages, giving the props convincing depth and age.

Key takeaways

  • An X-Carve CNC router is used to cut and shape the crate panels for clean, repeatable results
  • Multiple spray-paint layers — primer, granite, and rustic orange — build a realistic sci-fi finish
  • Liquid latex and steel wool create surface texture that enhances the weathered appearance
  • Brown wax paint is used as a final step to accentuate recesses and simulate grime
  • The finished crates are designed to dress a Star Wars-themed prop display case

Who this is for

Star Wars fans and prop collectors who want to add screen-inspired decorative crates to a themed room or display setup and are comfortable with basic CNC and painting workflows.

Tools mentioned

  • X-Carve CNC router
  • chip brushes
  • nitrile gloves

Materials mentioned

  • steel wool (000 grit)
  • 220-grit sandpaper
  • liquid latex
  • black sandable primer spray paint
  • satin granite spray paint
  • satin rustic orange spray paint
  • brown wax paint

⚠ Safety notes

Wear nitrile gloves when handling liquid latex and spray paints; use spray paints in a well-ventilated area.

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