Quick links to sample kits:
Costumers in general seem to like be packrats and save bits and pieces, and for good reason - you never know what you’re going to need and maybe there was that time you needed that little bit of trim you threw out last year. And having the exact right thing to fix a costume problem on set is huge stress reliever too! There’s a lot of “gack” that we need to run a costume department, including the personal kits that we maintain, and because each project (and therefore workplace) is temporary, we also spend a lot of time setting up and clearing out our spaces. You’ll find what works best for you with experience, so don’t worry about getting fully “kitted out” right away if you’re just getting started - just start with the basics.
It is recommended that everyone have a basic on-set kit no matter their position. Other needed supplies may be provided by various members on your team and may also need to be purchased/rented for the show specifically. Any expendables you use should be replaced by production before the end of your contract. These lists are meant to be guidelines, and will need to be tailored specifically to each situation.
When renting out your kit to a show you must provide your kit list with replacement values each time you sign your deal memo. A recommendation for all costumers is to charge at least $10/day for your kit, including daily hires, though it is subject to negotiation. We are trying to normalize a kit fee for our department, so everyone’s cooperation is very much appreciated!
A great resource to buy costume supplies is a store called Wotever (https://wotever-inc.com/) - they’re an essential supplier to every costume department in the city, and we love to support a small business!
First a quick note about working on set - in addition to your costume kit, you need to have personal weather gear for every show call and every daily you do. Check the weather the night before, and ensure you are prepared, otherwise you’ll be in for a miserable experience - especially when shooting on location. Cold weather gear, rain gear, hats/sunscreen etc are all your personal responsibility, as is wearing work appropriate clothing (something you can move around in easily, doesn’t limit you, and comfortable, closed toe shoes). Please be aware that these personal items do not count as your costume kit, but they will help keep you comfortable on the job (and will probably also contribute to getting another call from the team you’re working with that day! It’s always noticeable when someone is well prepared, or not!)
<aside> 💡 There is a great quick on set kit guide with photos here on The Wardrobe Chronicles Blog - https://www.thewardrobechronicles.com/onsetkitbag?fbclid=IwAR1dSZqzH9JJiTdY8BluY43hrcQHlliB_wjrtJQZsyq_NVCfbPuHEKib0vs
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Please hit the toggles to expand the lists:
The costume truck should have a little bit of everything. Larger amounts of supplies can be left in the office, but the truck needs to be able to service the needs of the set quickly. Usually the Set Supervisor and Truck Supervisor load the costume truck as part of their first duties on the show, and they are in charge of making sure they have everything they think they will need. The Truck Supervisor is in charge of maintaining the truck, and should know where everything is at all times and ask for replacements as needed.
Anyone working mainly in the office will have their personal office kit (usually a laptop and whatever office supplies they like to bring with them), but the office itself needs to be fitted with a number of things to be functional as well. Usually the Costume Designer and ACD will set up the office during pre-production as they will be the first ones hired.