cassandra sechler's video: Gut Making Tutorial by Cassandra Sechler for the Ax Wound Film Festival 2017

This video tutorial was created by Cassandra Sechler of Dreams For Dead Cats Productions for the 2017 Ax Wound Film Festival to demonstrate one inexpensive and resourceful way of making guts using items that most of us usually have in the house. Things you will need: needle, thread, scissors, clear tape packaging filler/ packing peanuts plastic wrap heat gun hair dryer liquid latex, a cheap brush (basting or foam brushes from the dollar store will do), bowl for latex various paint for desired effect, colors will vary based on desired outcome (red, yellow, blue, magenta, black, white, and brown recommended) medium sized paint brushes, art medium, palette (a plate will work) A bottle of blood (fake) latex gloves (optional for clean freaks) a sealant or fixative (optional) fun background music (optional but highly recommended) Step 1: String the Pellets You’ll want to start with threading the packing peanuts much like you would thread popcorn on a string to make cheap x-mas tree garland. Once you have the strand to a desired length (I prefer a strand about 6 feet long), cut the thread and seal the end with clear tape (packing tape works just fine). Step 2: Wrap the pellet strand Break out the plastic wrap and begin wrapping it around the strand. It’s a controlled, consistent twist, pull, and wrap motion. Sometimes it’s a difficult start but once you get into a rhythm of twisting and wrapping the plastic wrap around the strand it becomes quite simple. Sometimes the wrap wants to stick to itself, don’t be afraid to pull a little and use some force; you won’t break it. Step 3: Shrink Wrap Time! Time to tighten the plastic wrap around the strand to accentuate the shape of the packing peanuts and give a nice organic shape. Use a heat gun to tighten the wrap. It works fast so be careful to not let it burn! Step 4: Latex the strand Lay down some protective material on whatever surface you are using. I am using some trash bags on my kitchen table. Apply liquid latex to the strand. make sure it is fully covered. Allow to dry before rotating to fully cover any missed areas. A blow dryer will help speed up the drying process between layers. Usually 2 applications of latex will be sufficient. Step 5: Paint the guts! Paint the strand to bring it to life! Acrylic paints will do just fine. I usually use some red, blue, yellow, brown, maroon, black, and white. Mix the paints with art medium for desired colors and paint away. Let dry before handling. If you plan on using the guts for various shoots, you may want to consider using a fixative or sealant to keep them in good condition—this is optional. Before shooting, add fake blood or slime to give them a proper gruesome appearance. This of course is just one method of making your own guts. Other useful household items like cotton balls, rope, water balloons, trash bags, and cheap 1-ply toilet paper can be great materials as well. Cassandra Sechler Writer, Director, SPFX Makeup Dreams For Dead Cats Productions LLC www.dreamsfordeadcats.com