Scruffers - the Costume Breakdown staple

Hand holding Break Down and Ageing 'Scruffer'

Our Scruffers are the main tool we use and have been using them for decades. They are small but mighty. Extremely sharp and extremely versatile, our scruffers can get the job done in a matter of seconds. 

We use a sole ruffer or Scruffer for almost every single breakdown, ageing and distressing job that we take on. You can use it just for a subtle collar on a shirt, or go all out on a big pair of curtains for Set Dec. 

Below: 'Doolittle' 2020 SetDec curtains breakdown and distressing using our Scruffer 

It's a wonderful tool that's much more effective than a cheese grater and will easily fit in your bag.

Costume breakdown is usually a job that's fairly last minute if you're on set. A lot of the time the ageing doesn't quite look right on camera and you'll be very glad you have on of these on you!

January 06, 2026 — Rudi Schultz-Wiremu

What is Flints Mud?

 

Flints Mud - Sponge it. Paint it. Dab it. Fake mud ideal for boots and hems. Easy to apply, fast and effective - SWFX Shop

What is Flints Mud?

Flints Mud is a thick, PVA based fake mud, used for permanent 3D effects. It holds its shape extremely well, is flexible and permanent once dry. It looks quite pale when wet but dries much darker.

Flints Mud - Sponge it. Paint it. Dab it. Fake mud ideal for boots and hems. Easy to apply, fast and effective - SWFX Shop

Why use Flints Mud?

We use Flints Mud in a whole range of settings. When we work on a Theatre productions, they often need our costume breakdown to be permanent as the costumes will be washed up to eight times a week, Flints Mud is perfect for this. It's a great colour straight out of the pot, and can be watered down to create your desired look - Sticky sludge or a splash from a puddle. It's one our main products that we use for a 3D effect, and is more permanent than our Puff Binder

We exclusively sell 250g and 500g pots, ideal for artists that are on set, or on the go.

January 06, 2026 — Rudi Schultz-Wiremu

What are Dypro Dyes?

Dypro Multi-Purpose Dye. 100g tins - Dyes most fabrics, intermixable colours. A little goes a long way! - SWFX Shop

What are Dypro Dyes?

Dypro dyes are multi purpose fabric dyes which are perfect for at home dyeing and professional dyeing. They come in a powder form and are completely intermixable with each other.

What are multi-purpose dyes?

Multi purpose dyes are great when you don't know the exact composition of your fabric. Multi purpose dyes are a combination of three types of dye: direct dye, disperse dye and acid dye, and each type only works on certain fabrics. If you need to dye something that is a blend, or you need to dye a specific garment but you don't know what its made of, or you're simply just hoping that something will work, Dypro dye is the way to go.

Why should I use Dypro dye?

We've been using Dypro dye for many, many years. They are the industry standard and extremely reliable. You can use them anywhere from in a big dye vat, in your washing machine, or in a small bowl. They are incredible in all situations and we offer these dyes exclusively in 100g tins, perfect for on-the-go dyers and students.

If you're unsure of which colours you need, try our Basic Dye Set

January 06, 2026 — Rudi Schultz-Wiremu

What is Puff Binder?

Puff Binder is an expanding 3D effect paint used for costume and textiles. You can achieve many looks and textures with this versatile medium.