Even if all the pieces cannot be pulled, often the savings offered by using some stock furniture allows for a specialty piece to be invested in to compliment existing stock pieces and add to stock for future productions. Paper props like newspapers, magazines, or letters built for one show, when saved in stock, are a quick pull when dressing is needed for the next show.
When pulling it is important to keep an open mind about what discoveries might occur as props are sorted and pulled. Often times it is possible to discover something that might be easily modified or utilized as part of a built piece. Fabric sewn as curtains for a previous show can be modified into a bedspread or dyed a different color to work in the present show. A wooden box can be covered in fabric and leather straps to transform into a period trunk. Almost anything can become a lamp. A letter handwritten for one show can become a "proclamation" with the addition of a gold seal and some ribbon. Look with fresh eyes and think about the possibilities of what can be done, how it can be altered, the what if? of pulling an item and using it in a different way.
Once the pull is completed, items are moved to the prop shop for whatever alterations or finishing are required. This may include additional reinforcing to support the specific action of the production, a change in upholstery to fit into the color scheme, or a simple clean and polish to restore the original luster of the finish. In more drastic cases a stock piece may be significantly altered to create a different silhouette, to lower the back or extend the length of a piece of furniture, or disassembled to use parts to create an entirely new piece. This choice usually lies with the Properties Director working in collaboration with the artisans and the designer to prioritize what can be done on the budget allowed within the limitations of talent and time.
Any alteration or modification of stock items invariably requires some materials whether it’s wood, upholstery supplies, paint, trim, or craft supplies. The artisan/s involved in completing the project must determine what is needed and communicate the quantity to the Properties Director. Working with the shopper/buyer to determine pricing and availability within the budget limits, the material list is prioritized and becomes part of the “buy” list.