Prop Design - Book & Key
Final concept of the Enchanted Book. At a glance it looks real but begins to look otherworldly the longer you gaze at the book. I decided to simplify the locking mechanism.

Final concept of the Enchanted Book. At a glance it looks real but begins to look otherworldly the longer you gaze at the book. I decided to simplify the locking mechanism.

Final line sketches. I decided to simplify the locking mechanism for easy animation and the concept of time is within the book.  The book is a portal to the special world but lives in the real world.

Final line sketches. I decided to simplify the locking mechanism for easy animation and the concept of time is within the book. The book is a portal to the special world but lives in the real world.

After painting the 2nd concept, it was on the right path to fit in an illustrated world.  Since it came across as belonging in a video game verse an animated series, I decided to redesign it a third time.

After painting the 2nd concept, it was on the right path to fit in an illustrated world. Since it came across as belonging in a video game verse an animated series, I decided to redesign it a third time.

Value concept of the Enchanted Book. I incorporated the lock into a clock mechanism for an easier animated design.

Value concept of the Enchanted Book. I incorporated the lock into a clock mechanism for an easier animated design.

First concept of the Enchanted Book.  The design felt too "real" for it to exist in the story. I also decided having a separate locking mechanism would be too clunky for animators in an episodic animated show.

First concept of the Enchanted Book. The design felt too "real" for it to exist in the story. I also decided having a separate locking mechanism would be too clunky for animators in an episodic animated show.

Color concept of the key, lock, and jewel.  This jewel concept is used in the title art too.

Color concept of the key, lock, and jewel. This jewel concept is used in the title art too.

Value concept. I knew I wanted to add jewels to the key and lock.  I created a value study of the gem so it wouldn't appear too light with the metal.

Value concept. I knew I wanted to add jewels to the key and lock. I created a value study of the gem so it wouldn't appear too light with the metal.

Final line sketches.  Rollerskating was a popular activity during the 70's and 80's.  I took the basic blade design and incorporated gems and details found on the bow of antique keys.

Final line sketches. Rollerskating was a popular activity during the 70's and 80's. I took the basic blade design and incorporated gems and details found on the bow of antique keys.

First concept of the Key.  I wanted a key that the hero could put on her necklace while she is in the "special world" It felt too detailed for a episodic animated series.

First concept of the Key. I wanted a key that the hero could put on her necklace while she is in the "special world" It felt too detailed for a episodic animated series.

Prop Design - Book & Key

The Enchanted Book and Key is not of Thea's world. It is old, yet new, with wood-like leather. The lock is decorated with delicate jewels and has a metal clasp on the side holding it firmly together. For Thea, our hero, it's a confusing and alluring presence. She feels it in her bones the need to open the book and see what is within the pages.

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