This Murdoch Mysteries prop master makes incredible inventions from household items

CBC

28-01-2025

For fans of Murdoch Mysteries, the show's intricate gadgets and devices are as iconic as its gripping weekly sleuthing storyline and historical charm. But what many don't realize is that nearly every prop seen on screen owes its existence to the creative mind and skilled hands of Craig Grant, the series' longtime props master.
Over 18 seasons Grant has built up an impressive catalogue of inventions. "Every single prop you've seen on the show probably touched my hands or came from my brain," he shares in a recent behind-the-scenes video shared on social media. His passion for detail and ingenuity has brought the Murdoch Mysteries universe to life, blending historical accuracy with the show's unique steampunk aesthetic.
The Situation Room: A New Hub for Murdoch's Inventions
Season 18 introduces viewers to the Situation Room, a brand-new set designed to serve as Murdoch's personal workshop. It's almost a museum-like display of his many devices. Among the standout pieces is a giant laser from the 200th episode (episode 1311, Staring Blindly into the Future), a device that Grant reveals is made primarily of everyday items. "A lot of this device you could buy at Home Depot, Canadian Tire — wherever — because they're just plumbing parts. Other than plumbing parts, you know, we've got an Ikea lampshade and a tea strainer." he explains.
But the laser isn't the only example of Grant's ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Another of Grant's memorable creations is Murdoch's lie detector. A blend of historical inspiration and modern creativity, the machine's base originated as an Edison cylinder machine, enhanced with 3D-printed details and carefully arranged light bulbs.
However, what viewers don't see is the behind-the-scenes operation. "When we're using this on set, somebody either myself or one of my team has to lie under the table and operate this thing," Grant reveals, giving a glimpse into the manual process behind the magic.
In episode 1003, William Murdoch (Yannick Bisson) reminds us that this lie detector, which Crabtree (Jonny Harris) calls the "Truthizer", is more aptly called the "Autonomic Response Indicator."
Grant's personal favourite? A taser, or "weaponized capacitor" as it's referred to in the series. The prop was originally introduced at the end of Season 8 (episode 818, Artful Detective).
"The base of this is actually a tranquillizer dart gun," he says, adding that (again) plumbing parts and creative assembly turned it into the striking steampunk invention we see on the show.
As the Situation Room fills with more of Murdoch's creations, Grant's work continues to inspire and remind us of the craftsmanship behind every detail we see on screen in Murdoch Mysteries.
According to Grant, "Anything can become a cool-looking prop if you treat it right."