The studio
Hoku Props turns ambitious digital ideas into physical objects built to be seen, handled, presented, transported, and remembered.
Studio leadership
Chad Van Wye leads the creative and technical work. Samantha Rumbaugh leads communications, community, events, and the public story. Together, they pair deep fandom fluency with the discipline required for high-stakes physical work.
Founder & Creative Director
Chad's path began with childhood propmaking and grew through 3D design, digital fabrication, traditional craft, and years of practical problem-solving.
Chief Marketing Officer since 2021
Samantha brings experience spanning costume construction, cosplay, entertainment costuming, game quality assurance, communications, and events.
The team
Mechanical engineering, rigging and articulation, electronics, and the shop fixtures that keep production moving.
Sculpts and models most of what the studio prints, from trophies and medals to full character builds.
Straps, harnesses, soft goods, and the hand finishing that makes costumes and props wearable.
Lighting and electronics integration and hands-on production support across builds and events.
What guides the work
Details matter because the people receiving the work know the source material.
Finish, handling, approvals, production, packing, and delivery all belong to the design.
Confidentiality and careful public credit matter before, during, and after the build.
Have a high-stakes brief?
Tell us what the moment is, who it is for, when it needs to land, and what success must feel like.
Start a project briefStill figuring it out? Email the studio.