Tools of the Trade: Sharpie & Box Cutter

What do a Sharpie and a box cutter have in common?

At first glance, nothing. One marks, the other cuts. But for anyone who’s worked on a film set, installation, or fast-paced creative job site, you know these two tools are as essential as call times and gaffer’s tape. They’re simple, affordable, and endlessly useful.

Here’s why they never leave my bag.

Sharpie: The Workhorse

Sharpie is a constant on set. It’s the solution to more problems than you’d expect:

• Need to label 500 props? Sharpie.

• Need to black out a logo? Sharpie.

• Need to fill in a spot that's catching light on camera? Yep, Sharpie again.

• Want to make a sign that won’t get missed? Sharpie.

I recommend the Fine Point for its consistent mark and versatility. It's reliable for quick notes or precise fill-ins.

Pro Tip #1: Sharpies are easy to lose. Cap yours with a red or blue lid—people tend to avoid them, assuming it's the wrong color. It's a simple disguise that keeps my go-to black Sharpie safe.

Pro Tip #2: Bring extras. The tips dull fast with heavy use, and nothing wins friends on a shoot faster than handing someone a fresh Sharpie when they need one. Every department uses them.

Box Cutter: The Quick and Reliable

I'm amazed how often I need to cut something in the field: from quick fixes, fast alterations, or opening endless shipments of set dressing. But not just any box cutter. I'm talking about a folding box cutter, the kind with a trigger-release like I'm a ninja pulling a blade mid-fight. It's compact, sturdy, and feels like a proper tool in my hand.

Some of my favorite uses:

• Open, trim, and shape nearly anything.

• Score materials for a cleaner break.

• Trimming or modifying a prop on the fly

• Unwedging stuck pieces (like a drawer that's been painted shut)

• Loosen screws in a pinch

Pro Tip #1: Get one with a belt clip so it’s always within reach, and write your name on it with Sharpie. These things tend to vanish the minute you set them down.

Bonus: That quick blade release? It’s not just practical—it’s wildly satisfying. There’s something about flicking it open with one hand that makes you feel like an art department action hero.

But What About A Leatherman?

A Leatherman is certainly more versatile, some might call it the Swiss Army knife of the crew world. I may be in the minority here, but Box Cutters win on price, simplicity, and how little it hurts when I misplace it, which happens often.

The Bottom Line

Neither of these tools is flashy, but their usefulness far exceeds their price. If you're heading to set or any hands-on creative job, throw a few Sharpies and a box cutter in your bag. Better yet, do it right now. Future you will thank you.