Video Theme

Sci-Fi Props

Videos built around the sci-fi props theme — pulled together so you can study how others bring this atmosphere to life.

20 videos

A Hands-On look at the Ghostbusters Haslab Ecto-1 and Ecto-1A - Lights!

Product Reviews

A Hands-On look at the Ghostbusters Haslab Ecto-1 and Ecto-1A - Lights!

A firsthand look at the Haslab Ghostbusters Ecto-1 and Ecto-1A collectible, focusing on its built-in lights and electronics. The host visits Hasbro Headquarters in NYC and speaks with a Hasbro representative who walks through the lighting and LED features of the prototype. The video offers an up-close examination of this crowdfunded collectible vehicle for Ghostbusters fans.

Creative Geekery· 25,958 views

Silicone Mold Making & Resin Casting Tutorial | Easy DIY Step-by-Step Guide!

DIY PropsBeginner$30–$80

Silicone Mold Making & Resin Casting Tutorial | Easy DIY Step-by-Step Guide!

VanOaksProps walks through the complete process of making silicone molds and casting resin duplicates in this beginner-friendly tutorial. The workflow covers mixing and pouring silicone, applying mold release, and achieving clean resin casts suitable for small prop components. The channel's own Star Wars-inspired resin rocker switches serve as a real-world example of what the technique can produce. At under ten minutes, the guide is concise and practical for anyone looking to start replicating small prop parts at home.

VanOaksProps· 25,305 views

Turning A Toy Ghostbusters Trap Into A Realistic Prop: Can I Do It?

DIY PropsIntermediate

Turning A Toy Ghostbusters Trap Into A Realistic Prop: Can I Do It?

This build video follows the creator's process of upgrading a Spirit Halloween Ghostbusters ghost trap toy into a screen-accurate movie prop replica inspired by Ghostbusters: Afterlife and Frozen Empire. The mod involves disassembling the toy, integrating a servo motor for remote-controlled trap-door action, and reworking the exterior with custom panels and hardware to closely match the on-screen design. Step-by-step guidance covers both the mechanical and cosmetic sides of the conversion. The result aims for a movie-grade finish achievable by dedicated DIY hobbyists.

Creative Geekery· 24,002 views

How to Paint Realistic Metallic Finishes

DIY PropsIntermediate

How to Paint Realistic Metallic Finishes

This VanOaksProps tutorial breaks down the process of achieving professional-looking metallic and chrome finishes on props, with a focus on avoiding common pitfalls. The workflow centers on proper base coat preparation followed by specialized metallic paints applied via airbrush. Oil paints are also incorporated for subtle weathering and depth. Multiple chrome paint options at varying price points are presented so viewers can choose what suits their budget and skill level.

VanOaksProps· 22,459 views

SUPER Easy 3D Print Smoothing & Prep for Paint - Use LESS Spot Putty!

DIY PropsBeginner$20–$60

SUPER Easy 3D Print Smoothing & Prep for Paint - Use LESS Spot Putty!

This short tutorial walks through an accessible, hardware-store-friendly workflow for smoothing and prepping 3D printed parts before paint. The creator demonstrates how to minimize spot putty use by combining strategic sanding across multiple grits with a sandable filler primer. The techniques are demonstrated on a Star Wars droid dome build, making the process tangible and visually clear. All materials are widely available and budget-friendly.

VanOaksProps· 15,454 views

Hands-On With HasLab: Ghostbusters Proton Pack (1984) & Ecto-1 Shipping Soon!

Hands-On With HasLab: Ghostbusters Proton Pack (1984) & Ecto-1 Shipping Soon!

Filmed at New York Comic Con, this video offers an up-close look at two highly anticipated HasLab Ghostbusters Plasma Series releases: the retooled 1984 Proton Pack and the Anniversary Edition Ectomobile. The creator sits down with Hasbro's design team to unpack updated electronics, a new USB-C always-on power mode for the Proton Pack, and screen-accurate lighting and interchangeable roof racks on the Ecto-1. The coverage blends behind-the-scenes insight from the Hasbro and Ghost Corp collaboration with practical detail useful to backers awaiting shipment.

Creative Geekery· 14,616 views

UPGRADE Your Ghostbusters Popcorn Bucket

DIY PropsBeginner$20–$50

UPGRADE Your Ghostbusters Popcorn Bucket

VanOaksProps walks through a paint upgrade process for the Ghostbusters Ghost Trap popcorn bucket available from Regal Cinemas or Spirit Halloween, transforming the stock plastic prop into a convincingly movie-accurate replica. The tutorial relies on a short list of accessible acrylic and spray paints combined with liquid latex masking to achieve a weathered, metallic finish. The result elevates a novelty theater collectible into a display-worthy prop without requiring advanced skills or expensive equipment.

VanOaksProps· 12,742 views

Unboxing the Spirit Deluxe vs HasLab Ghost Trap! Full Review!

Unboxing the Spirit Deluxe vs HasLab Ghost Trap! Full Review!

This 24-minute review unboxes the new Spirit Halloween Deluxe Ghost Trap and puts it head-to-head against the HasLab 'Two in the Box' trap and the original Spirit model. The host tests the built-in mist effect, sound and light sequences, pedal responsiveness, and overall build quality across all three versions. A candid breakdown helps viewers decide which trap is worth their money based on features, realism, and value. Mod potential is also touched on for those looking to customize their purchase.

Creative Geekery· 12,224 views

Metallic Gold Paint using Food Coloring?

DIY PropsIntermediate$20–$60

Metallic Gold Paint using Food Coloring?

VanOaksProps demonstrates a budget-friendly technique for achieving a convincing metallic gold finish, crediting prop maker Gordon Tarpley as the method's originator. The process uses an aerosol metallic basecoat combined with liquid food coloring to dial in a warm gold tone, finished with acrylic varnish for durability. The technique is demonstrated on a 3D-printed C-3PO hand prop, making it highly relevant for sci-fi cosplay and replica builds. The result punches well above its price point compared to off-the-shelf gold paints.

VanOaksProps· 11,052 views

How I Weathered My Ghostbusters Proton Pack (Full DIY Build Guide)

DIY PropsIntermediate

How I Weathered My Ghostbusters Proton Pack (Full DIY Build Guide)

This video is the concluding chapter of a three-part Ghostbusters Proton Pack build series, focusing entirely on weathering and finishing a 3D-printed replica into a screen-accurate prop. The creator walks through multiple weathering techniques including rub and buff, paint washes, and Fuller's Earth to achieve a grimy, battle-worn aesthetic. Additional upgrades covered include swapping in a period-correct Neutrona wand and integrating a custom smoke effects unit. The build culminates in a reveal moment featuring a real Ghostbusters cast member's reaction.

Creative Geekery· 8,852 views

DIY Ghostbuster Ecto Goggles

DIY PropsIntermediate$20–$60

DIY Ghostbuster Ecto Goggles

VanOaksProps revives a long-shelved project to complete a screen-accurate set of Ghostbusters Ecto Goggles, using a free Thingiverse 3D model as the foundation. The build focuses on hardware assembly — sourcing specific screws, snaps, and olive-colored belting straps — followed by a multi-layer paint and weathering process using acrylics and oil paint washes. The result is a wearable, movie-faithful replica suitable for cosplay or display. This video kicks off a new series dedicated to finishing abandoned prop builds.

VanOaksProps· 8,258 views

Building the Hoth Scanner Prop | Star Wars Prop Replica

DIY PropsAdvanced

Building the Hoth Scanner Prop | Star Wars Prop Replica

This detailed build video walks through the full process of recreating Han Solo's Hoth Scanner prop from The Empire Strikes Back, combining FDM printing, resin printing, and real metal hardware for a screen-inspired replica. The creator covers prop research, surface preparation, and achieving convincing chrome and metallic finishes using accessible paints and buffing compounds. Assembly tips address structural durability, making the finished piece suitable for display or cosplay use.

VanOaksProps· 7,849 views

Make Your Ghost Trap Smoke! - Using the Ghostbusters Spirit Halloween Trap!

DIY PropsIntermediate

Make Your Ghost Trap Smoke! - Using the Ghostbusters Spirit Halloween Trap!

This tutorial walks through modifying the Spirit Halloween Ghost Trap toy into a screen-accurate smoking prop inspired by the Ghostbusters films. The creator integrates a mini smoke machine into the trap using a combination of 3D-printed parts, laser-cut components, and some basic wiring. A full kit list with links to all required parts is provided, making it straightforward for builders to source everything they need. The result is a visually impressive prop upgrade that adds a working smoke effect to an off-the-shelf Halloween product.

Creative Geekery· 7,011 views

I Faked Movie-Quality Beskar for Under $30!

DIY PropsIntermediateUnder $30

I Faked Movie-Quality Beskar for Under $30!

This tutorial walks through building screen-accurate Mandalorian Beskar ingots and a Grogu chest plate on a tight budget using air-dry clay and a 3D-printed mold. The creator documents the trial-and-error process of developing a custom forging template, correcting common clay-layering mistakes along the way. Key finishing techniques — including a black gloss base coat and graphite powder buffing — transform cheap hobby materials into convincing heavy-metal props. The result is a polished, practical-effects-quality build for under $30.

Creative Geekery· 6,553 views

LIVE! Ghostbusters Prop Build from the Workshop! Making stuff live!

DIY PropsIntermediate

LIVE! Ghostbusters Prop Build from the Workshop! Making stuff live!

A live workshop session focused on building Ghostbusters-themed props, specifically ghost traps and proton packs. The creator walks through electronics integration, cable management strategies, and the wiring of the iconic proton pack switch. The stream doubles as a casual hangout covering 80s movies and general geek culture alongside the hands-on build content.

Creative Geekery· 5,998 views

Haslab Vs. Matty Vs. Spirit Ghost Traps: The Ultimate Showdown!

Haslab Vs. Matty Vs. Spirit Ghost Traps: The Ultimate Showdown!

This video pits three Ghostbusters ghost trap replicas against each other — the Hasbro Haslab Two in the Box, the Matty Collector trap, and the Spirit Halloween version — in a head-to-head comparison. The host evaluates each prop across aesthetics, build quality, electronics, and overall operation to help viewers decide which version best suits their needs. It serves as a practical buying guide for collectors and Halloween enthusiasts alike.

Creative Geekery· 4,262 views

LIVE! Prop building from the workshop - and maker discussion!

LIVE! Prop building from the workshop - and maker discussion!

A live workshop stream in which the host builds movie-inspired replica props, with discussion touching on Ghostbusters and Back to the Future pieces. The session blends hands-on fabrication with open maker conversation, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. At roughly 100 minutes, it offers an extended, real-time glimpse into a working prop builder's space.

Creative Geekery· 3,368 views

Is This HasLab Ghost-Trap 🔦 the Future of Ghostbusters Props? 👻

Is This HasLab Ghost-Trap 🔦 the Future of Ghostbusters Props? 👻

This video takes a close look at the HasLab Ghost Trap prop, examining its audio capabilities and overall functionality as a high-end Ghostbusters replica. The presenter explores how the piece performs as a collectible and cosplay prop, assessing whether it lives up to fan expectations. It frames the HasLab trap as a potentially game-changing release for Ghostbusters enthusiasts.

Creative Geekery· 2,460 views

Which Droid Would YOU Build? Aluminum vs 3D Printed!

DIY PropsAdvanced

Which Droid Would YOU Build? Aluminum vs 3D Printed!

This episode of Creative Geekery puts two radically different droid builds head-to-head: a life-size 3D-printed R2-inspired tribute and a massive fully machined aluminum droid weighing over 200 pounds. The host interviews both builders, exploring their construction methods, challenges, and control systems — including Arduino-based Bluetooth setups. The discussion also touches on the philosophy of making, particularly the idea that passion builds like these are never truly finished.

Creative Geekery· 1,509 views

LIVE! From the workshop!

LIVE! From the workshop!

A live workshop stream from Creative Geekery's Matt Daniels, checking in on current prop builds and sharing updates from the Experience Explorers project. The session has a casual, conversational format giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at active maker projects. Ghostbusters-themed props appear to be among the topics on the workbench.

Creative Geekery· 545 views