Saber Forum

Working on a new version of my previous Sith Armor cosplay.
This time, I'm using Sintra rather than EVA foam.

Started the new armor base in 1/4" Sintra versus the older version being in 1/2" EVA foam
Layouts started, based on the older piece
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-01.jpg)

For the bracers, I'm basing the detail on bracers worn by Therion Jinn in Star Wars: The Old Republic
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-02.jpg)

Finished laying out the new chest piece.
This version won't have the center plate of the original
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-03.jpg)

Base piece cut out.
This was done with a LOT of passes using a box cutter
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-04.jpg)

I laid out the pieces for the arms and legs, and then cut them out with a jig saw. Saved a LOT of time and work doing that
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-05.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-06.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-07.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-08.jpg)

Began heatforming with the chest piece, and then went to the bracers and leg pieces.
While Sintra can be heated and formed with a heat gun, you need to use patience, and a respirator is a good idea because of the fumes
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-09.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-10.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-11.jpg)

Laid out the detail pieces for the bracers on construction paper, and then laid it out onto 1/8" Sintra
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-12.jpg)

I cut new angles into the chest piece for a different, less square look
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-13.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-14.jpg)

Due to the stiffness of the Sintra, I had to rework my idea on how to fit the bracers.
I wound up having to cut about 1/4" from either side of the under seam to allow for my thumbs to make it through the piece
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-15.jpg)

Laid out new angled shoulder covers to add to the main piece. This was part of why I made the angle cuts on the chest piece
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-16.jpg)

Tested the layout of the detail pieces on the bracers
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-17.jpg)

And now, the gluing begins. I'm using E6000, which is the adhesive of choice for the 501st Legion and the Mandalorian Mercs when working with Sintra.
I'll reinforce these later with Chicago screws.
Here are the bracers and the beginning of the chest all clamped up
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-18.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-19.jpg)

Youtube link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xndmXJpc4BA

This is an interesting KOTOR project, I'm sure the final result will look quite bitchin'!

Thank you, Lord Ravage.
Still working on getting the leg pieces built right now, but very happy with how it's going

That looks really cool. I've always want to try making armor but just haven't ever gotten the nerve to try it yet. Thanks for sharing.

No worries, Hansrad. Happy to share.
I freely admit to learning most of what I know from various and sundry YouTube videos

Update time for the Sith Armor

Got the banding/clamps off on the chest and bracers.
Also installed the Chicago screws that will be doing the main work of holding the pieces together.
Chest piece
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-20.jpg)
Bracers
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-21.jpg)

For the underside of the bracers, I used two layers of 2mm EVA foam.
I used my soldering iron to cut 'pad' lines in the first layer prior to gluing them together.
I then glued them to the main parts.
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-22.jpg)

Decided to show a little comparison between the Mk1 and Mk2 sections so far.
This is mostly to show the differences in what I can do now
Chest piece
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-23.jpg)
Bracers
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-24.jpg)

Turning my attention to the leg pieces, I cut them using similar methods to what I used for the arms and then heat formed them.
I also added a 'center line' to use for placing the detail pieces
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-25.jpg)

Laid out a template for the leg detail pieces, then separated the segments for cutting
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-26.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-27.jpg)

Laid out the templates on the 1/8" Sintra and then cut them out
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-28.jpg)

I heat formed the detail pieces, and then labeled them to make sure they get applied in the correct order to the correct leg
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-29.jpg)

Using hot glue, I mounted 1" webbing to the 4 and 2 pieces of the detail layer.
I'll add the buckles to them after I get it all mounted to the leg pieces
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-30.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-31.jpg)

Glued the 4, 3, and 2 pieces to the leg forms using more of the E6000 I'd used previously.
I also got the 4 and 3 pieces secured with Chicago screws
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-33.jpg)

Youtube link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0eOpH_jW4rY

That is so cool.

Wow, this looks awesome. Great job.

Sweet. -1

Doing a great job! Can't wait to see a of you wearing the final product.

Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk

You're hired. These are awesome.

Thank you very much for all the comments, folks.
I'm also looking forward to being able to see the whole setup finished.

That looks like its coming along nicely! Using sentra will make for some very durable armor! We have some of that where i work, never thought of it being used in that way, so point to you good sir.

Thanks, MavRick
I actually found out about the stuff from a friend who's in the local chapter of the 501st

Would you recommend someone taking on something like this the first time starting off with the foam or jump straight to the sintra?

Gonna be honest, Hansrad.
The EVA foam is MUCH more forgiving, and also easier to work.

It's also a LOT cheaper for experimenting with

That's what I kind of figured. If I screw up with the foam not a big loss. Maybe I'll have to break down and just give it a try. Thanks.

No worries.
Glad I could help

Lots of good videos on YouTube for working with foam

Update time on the Sith Armor.

Got the legs out of the clamps, and installed the strapping and Chicago screws
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-34.jpg)

Drew up a templat for the new 'spats' for covering my shoes.
This one is designed to go over both sides of the foot with armor plating over the top
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-35.jpg)

Pieces for the spats cut from 3mm Sintra.
I used my Dremel to cut grooves in the top pieces for ease of later assembly
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-36.jpg)

Pieces shown how they'll sit after heatforming
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-37.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-38.jpg)

Drew up a template for the knee plates
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-39.jpg)

Cut the layers from more 3mm Sintra
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-40.jpg)

Finished knee plates, awaiting straps
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-41.jpg)

With all of the parts now built, I decided to go ahead and paint them up.
I started by coating the craft foam on the arms with Plasti-Dip
Then, I primered all of the parts with black primer.
I masked off the detail plates and painted them with Testors Graphite Dust lacquer.
Once the masking was removed, I hand painted the black areas between the plates
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-42.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-43.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-44.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-45.jpg)

Youtube link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brtDOIYuXRg

A ton of great work!! I know little too nothing about making anything like this but I do know you are killing it!

Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk

TJ. That. Is. AWESOME!  Question: have you thought about doing any SW:TOR armour (s)?  You REALLY are gifted my friend  :)

Thanks, guys.

@TheDutchman,
You're making me blush, but I don't see myself building multiple armors.
Mostly due to a lack of space

Completely understandable ^^  Pity; you've got real talent TJ  8)

YOU'RE HIRED! These pieces look amazing. I especially like the shoulder piece. What is the weight like?

Weight's only a couple of pounds, Darth Logos.
Surprisingly light. And feels a lot less cumbersome than my old EVA foam setup dis

Thanks again, Dutchman.
I am very pleased with the results so far.

Really awesome work! It's been ages since I worked on making/wearing a full armour cosplay (N7 Amor: Mass Effect) but I can't wait to see photos in action!

Thanks, Star Killer
With luck, I should have some pics up tonight

As promised.....

Update on the Sith armor build

Installed some 1/2" strips of elastic on the 'spat' pieces that will be covering my shoes.
This will keep the pieces from moving as I walk around the con
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-46.jpg)

For the knee pieces, I opted to use 1" elastic
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-47.jpg)
These will be adjustable during the day by using velcro for the closures
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-48.jpg)

At this point, the armor is done.
For the first time, I put on the full suit I'll be wearing at Salt Lake Comic Con in September.

A look at the upper body
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-49.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-50.jpg)

A look at the leg sections
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-51.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-52.jpg)

The whole suit, complete with saber
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-53.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-54.jpg)

Finally, a side by side comparison with the Mk1
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-55.jpg)

Youtube link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoVUUAMHezE

Your armor looks really good. Nice job. I also really like you saber.

Looks great TJ! And I'm still coveting your saber  ;)

Thanks, Taegin.
The saber is a custom-based on the US Catalyst that I built a few weeks ago

Thank you, Lady Kath.
I'm afraid the Wrath shall remain a unique build, though

That looks so awesome all together. Great work, and thank you for sharing it with us.

Simple but effective, I like it.  Gives me ideas regarding pauldrons  8)

Now we just need to get you some Sith contacts. And that saber just makes it pop. -1

Thank you all very much for the comments and compliments.
I'm very happy with the way this turned out

Absolutely amazing TJ!  Incredible work my friend; I'm both impressed and envious  ;)

Thank you very much, Dutchman.
I have to give a LOT of credit to the wealth of information I found on Youtube for working, first with the EVA foam in the Mk1, and later in Sintra for the Mk2

this is awesome!! great stuff. well deserved point

Looks great! Can't wait to see posts of MKIII.  ;D

Thanks, guys.
Sean107, for now, there are no plans for a MKIII. Maybe a MKIIa, but not a new full suit

Been waiting for the reveal for a minute...DS point to you!

Thank you, Lord Ravage

Very well done! I'm finally starting on a Lord Starkiller cosplay now (it's mostly your fault, you gave me some ideas) and I figure I have the lightsaber I need; a tricked out Raven.

But that is awesome, is it your first armour cosplay (apart from the MKI)? I know mine didn't look half as good as that, and I hope mine turns out ok, it's been 5-6 years since I put together an armour set!

I found all sorts of tricks for hiding the con badge for photos; laniards you wrap around a belt with a simple slip knot and tuck it away somewhere, the safety pin ones are much easier usually pin it somewhere less noticeable that you can hide with a sash, cape, or something that can cover a part of your costume, not sure what you can do with your armour, but if you were creative enough to put that together I'm sure you can figure it out. My suggestion would be to sew a flap on your leg that can cover the badge and flip it open for inspection when they want to check it out.

-edit- looking over your armour it may be possible to tuck it under your over coat and simply lift it for inspection when needed.

Thanks, Star Killer. I'll likely tuck the badge into my undertunic for pictures.
Counting the Mk1, this is my second cosplay armor.
I build models as a hobby, which helps with some of the crafting (as well as a reason to have many of the needed tools)

In that case very well done!

I do have a logistical question however, maybe you figured it out, or some other SW cosplayers; batteries for the saber. Currently I'm using a pouch from my old webbing from my time in the armed forces that they didnt want back when I left on a belt so I can move it out of the way for photos to hold batteries in plastic containers (fully charged) when empty I just put them put them back "naked". It also holds a small card holder for the hotel room, debit card, hex key set and phone. Kinda important for long cons where the bateries kinda give out on you a few times during the day. Anyone have any practical solutions?

Correllian Imports used to have badge pouches you could loop to a belt, so that you didn't have that idiot lanyard messing up the vibe of your cosplay.

Not too worried about the badge, honestly.
Still working out the battery logistics, but I do have a pouch for the belt that could hold at least one spare set.
Not planning on having the saber lit all day

It's not going to be lit all day, but the on/off for photos most of the day will kill your bateries, then when more SW cosplayers stream in you'll be stuck doing photos for a while (I enjoy it personally because kids seem to enjoy wanting photos taken with Sith/Jedi because lightsabers are awesome especially from US)

Here's a pouch that is very similar to the one I use,
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B004Z12YX6
 holds enough batteries in pill containers from the pharmacy (4 batteries per box, 4 boxes in the pouch) plus your cell phone, plus a hex key set, the front flap holds hotel key and cash no problem. I didn't quite go through all my batteries but it was a close call on Saturday; 10am-11 pm.

I recommend the Mute, if you have V4 sound, and only lighting up for photo-ops. I made a full charge last all day. Do you have any pockets? Or......maybe you could work in a small compartment on the inside of your bracers, just to the rear.

Running V4 sound, but I do have the ability to carry spare batteries.
Also only planning on lighting it for photos

Depending on how popular you are, you should be able to go all day with just lights. When I went to Pop-con, I was there for almost 9hrs, with no problems.

There's a mute?

-edit-

Googled it, sound font switch very neat work around!

The default settings of the V4 sound board have 7 sound fonts and one empty slot that mutes the saber. Sound drains the batts pretty fast. Half hour of continuous use (at least with a BR MLS) Varying colors might require more power and offer less operating time.

Took the kit to Salt Lake Comic Con today, had fun with it, but also found a couple of bugs that need to be worked out of it for the next run.
Next run will likely be at Fan-X next year.
Got a couple of pics of me with some folks who share a love for Star Wars
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/2017%20Salt%20Lake%20Comic-con/DSCF2153.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/2017%20Salt%20Lake%20Comic-con/DSCF2169.jpg)

What there is of my con album can be found here:
http://s432.photobucket.com/user/quaralane/slideshow/2017%20Salt%20Lake%20Comic-con

Looking good Therion Jinn! Just out of curiosity, what bugs did you find with the armor? Enquiring minds want to know for future reference. (I might be attempting bracers in the near future...)

Thanks, Lady Agana
My bracers were about an inch too long. Actually had to take them off so I could eat lunch.
Also, the leg pieces kept rolling around my legs as I'd walk, so I'll likely be going with actual boots for the revision

Good to know. I'll make sure to keep wrist mobility in mind when making mine.

This armor looks awesome ;)

Point!!!

My mistake was not checking the size with my template before actually building the bracer.
And I think my leg rotation issued was from the foot covers hitting them when I walked

Thank you. I was pleased with the look, for sure

This is simply amazing and very, very inspiring to me. Point.

Thanks.
I found most of my info on Youtube as far as putting it together went.

Point in return

I put spare batteries in a re-purposed cell phone pouch and clip them to the back halves of my belt along w/pouches for my phone, tools, biz cards, etc.

I used a pair of tool pouches on the back. One for my camera and spare batteries, the other for my diabetic insulin kit

Awesome TJ!  I have said it before and I'll reiterate: your armor is BADASS!  Outstanding job my friend  :D


This, oh so much^^

Measure twice, cut once. :P ;)

Thank you, Dutchman.
I was definitely happy with the look. Just needs tweaking.

Very sound advice, Darth Logos
When measuring forearms for tings like this, one should probably measure a bent forearm, not straight

After some thought, it was time to make the necessary adjustments to the 2.0 version of the Sith Armor.
I also made a couple of changes to how things were going to work.

The original pieces, prior to modification
(http://i.imgur.com/LtTim3s.jpg)

The plan was to cut a bit of length off the bracers so I had full arm movement.
Having gotten actual boots for this suit, I cut the main leg pieces down so it was primarily the armor.
The belt got some of the biggest changes as I took it from a single belt to a double and intended to add spacers as well as a new back plate for the buckle.
(http://i.imgur.com/Egb2gUP.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/XbSilDy.jpg)

With the belt now finished up, I replaced the old version's tool pouches with a single utility pouch.
Went in on the buckle and painted the engraved design in Tamiya red.
Seeing how that turned out, I made similar markings on the bracers and chest piece.
I also changed out the gloves for ones that let me better grip the sabers.
(http://i.imgur.com/3WPtdVA.jpg?1)
(http://i.imgur.com/kZFBS0y.jpg?1)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y0TgMok.jpg?1)

After putting on the full costume, I decided to drop both the knee pieces and the 'spats' I'd been wearing to hide the fact I was wearing shoes.
I really like the end results here.
(http://i.imgur.com/dUnLb56.jpg?1)
(http://i.imgur.com/4T5KWIs.jpg?1)

Youtube link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=How4SRK0hvc

I really like the end result as well. :)

Great job Therion - that looks amazing!

-1

Nice Therion, I like the shinguards without the knee guards.

TJ those are INCREDIBLE!  That armor is spectacular!  I wish that I had your creativity sir  ;)

-1 for pure badassery  :D

Thanks very much, folks.
Lady K, I agree on liking this better without the knee guards

Dutchman, you flatter me again.
The creativity thing is something that has been with me for a very long time.
Growing up in remote Colorado nourished my imagination greatly

Omigosh I just went though all this, the detailing the clear process... everything was so freakin amazing. That is cool, this is cool, you are cool. That is so awesome.

Thank you, Emmy
You're making me blush

:3 But it is! It's good work. I'd put your attention to process on par with folks I know who do prop design for a living! Seriously it's a good guide. If you made a blog or something I bet it would help people who are on the fence about doing a build of their own.

Thanks.
I learned a lot of what I did from videos on YouTube, so I can't really take credit for much of the technique.
And my design work had its share of flaws

Nah that's perfect even. it's like when I do cooking examples and things like that I'll show when I've burned something. That's a very important part, I believe at least, of any tutorial. Shows we're human and lets any would be learner, feel comfortable because they don't have to do it just like you. And if you got ideas from afar, cool. But remember that no one else put what you worked on together, but you. So perhaps tricks or combinations of theories or ideas you've been able to cobble together, haven't really been thought of by others. It's kind of a funny thing to think about. But no one person will ever know what other people don't know. So when you're doing something for fun, teaching, just sharing your process, and so on. Feel free to go over the basics, or at least what you personally feel are the basics, that way for that person who didn't know. Not only do they now know, but they didn't have to ask anyone.

Like, ok, if I'm explaining 3d printing, I'll always point out what rafts and struts are. If you've printed something in 3D before, you likely immediately know what they are, as they are a sort of optional base that helps prop up thinner models, meant to be broken away from the model at the end of construction process. So anyone who was coming in new, can look at their Cura or whatever software and sees "use raft" and goes OHHHHHH... gotcha.

All in all though, seriously, really fun thread to read, great build!

Sounds like you've seen some of the other videos on my channel then.
I usually try to share the journey from a to b without the 'live' work element

Great work on the armor! I really like the pictures from the convention also! Did all of those other guys have US as well?

Thanks.
At least a couple of them did.
Those guys were with the saber legion, and focus on dueling

 Wow! that is incredible.

I'm glad you like it

One more variant pic of me in full gear at FanX Salt Lake today
Added the cloak for the first time.
Carrying the Wrath, and wearing the Fire on my hip
(http://i.imgur.com/ZZe2AIK.jpg)

Dude, your costume rocks. I already gave you a point for telling us about handling the Butcher, so you've got another inbound when I can for that sweet armor. I looked through the thread, and I like how you've kept going with it and making changes over time, making it look even better. Great stuff.  :)

You look like you belong in an Old Republic story as a Sith of course. Looking really good there, Therion.  Love that saber as well! Point.

Thanks, SFD
This one, kind of like the Wrath itself, has been a slowly evolving thing over the last year and a half.

Funny you should mention the Old Republic, Infinit01
That's where Therion, the character, is actually from.

Or, as I explained to a Kanan Jarrus I met at FanX yesterday, 'I am The Emperor's Wrath from 3000 years before you were born.'

You pulled it off completely because that's the feeling and vibe that I get when I look at your costume. Great costume that fits you and your name.

Thank you very much there, Infinit01

Hi TJ.  I know nothing about cosplay and costuming... but for my eyes this looks good.  That's a fine Sith saber !  :o

point  8)

Thank you very much, D7

Awesome work TJ. Looks great on you.

Looking good. Although, I would suggest trying (disregard if doesn't work) to rock the cape under the shoulder armor. That way the work you put into it is shown off.

Definitely a thought, Logos.
Something I may play with before the next con.

It worked for Darth Malgus

Exactly what I was thinking.

Anything that can be taken from Malgus should.  In my Top 5 Sith lords he is.   Have a point for an awesome costume

He's pretty much where I got the inspiration for my boots.

Same with my Mask   

Point in return for the continued suggestions.
I'll have to try it out

And now, on a fun note, WAYYYY back in September at FanX, I had my picture taken at one of their semi-official booths.
They FINALLY posted the pic to their site TODAY!

(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/IMG_3975.jpg)

If Disney is going to make a TOR era movie, they need to cast you just for the look alone. You look like you step right off a set, Therion.  Great costume and the saber is sweet!  Love that exhaust port

Thanks very much, infinit01

You're welcome, Therion!

jealousy point!

Point in return, mrg149

Just having fun with the look

Looks good.  Still working on the look for my Grey Jedi.  I appreciate  the amount of work and time ot must have taken. Final product is well worth it.

The armor's all I can really take credit for, Malik.
That, and the belt I'm wearing over the obi

All right,
Around Christmas-time, I promised some of you that I'd update the pics of this with the vest I'd ordered to use instead of the more traditional tabards
I'm also trying this with the shoulder piece over the cloak instead of under it.

I'm holding 'Therion's Wrath,' but it's not lit due to being out of juice at the moment.
Fixed that later, but the focus here was on the suit
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-5-10.jpg)
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Star_Wars/Cosplay%20Sith%20Armor%20Mk2/sith-armor-mk2-5-09.jpg)

Hi Therion,

I think this works well. It gives the impression of tabards but takes it away from the traditional Jedi look which would be a snub to the Jedi Order!
And the armour over the tunics definitely looks good.

point inbound.

Thanks, Tyeth
The armor over cloak is at Logos' suggestion

I really like how you keep improving this costume. The tabards look great, and I really like the look of the shoulder armor over the cloak. I think I've mentioned it before, but I really like those custom armor pieces you made. That's some top quality work.

Thanks, SFD
I have a feeling this one may always be evolving to some extent
Like the fact that I cut the fingertips out of the gloves so I can use my cellphone more readily while in costume
(Despite the gloves 'working' with smart phones, it's not a 100% thing)

And I thank Youtube for the many videos that helped me learn to shape the pieces

Yeah, buddy. I think now all you need is some prescription Sith contancts and the hood up, and then you will be ready to terrorize the populace. >:D

Likely won't do the contacts because of how messed up my eyes already are. But I willl try and get pics with the hood up at the con in April

What's up with them?

Great costume there, Therion and that cape goes well with it all.  I'm digging your gauntlets

Need the glasses to bring left and right eye views to center.
Multiple focus points in each eye

Thanks, Infinit01
They were inspired by some I found in The Old Republic

BAH! Maybe you can produce a visor to hide the glasses.

Is it one eye off or both? Cause one eye with contact and the other behind a masked lens would be awesome.

(https://academichelp.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Cybernetic.jpg)

The spaulders over the cape looks sooo goooood

Thanks, Lady K.

Afraid it's both eyes, Logos. Glasses let me see fairly clearly.
I can work without them, but would prefer not to.
When asked, I blame the diffractive properties of this planet's so-called air

Hmmmmmm........

I sense a visor project. Basically something you could wear over the glasses but that wouldn't affect your vision. I'm think something Cyclops-esque. Or Soldier 76.

I've thought about it, but haven't really felt a vibe for what I might want

https://www.flickr.com/photos/145393807@N05/47200203232/in/dateposted-ff/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/145393807@N05/47200203232/in/dateposted-ff/)

Um....
Why the Predator pic?

Spent the better part of the day at FanX Salt Lake
As usual, it was a fun day, and I saw a LOT of people, some in excellent costumes

Got some new pics of me in my Sith gear as well.
Was going to try and wear the cloak under the chest piece, but it wound up sliding down. So, I ended up wearing it over the shoulders like I did in September
(http://i.imgur.com/BJRYSz8.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/2WI1vOh.jpg)

And a couple from their "official" photographer
(http://i.imgur.com/RNDPEIH.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/NlP0jeL.jpg)

And a link to the rest of the gallery for those who may be interested
http://imgur.com/gallery/tXbAKaR (http://imgur.com/gallery/tXbAKaR)

Did some update work on the Sith armor as well as my son's smuggler cosplay
The Imgur gallery has most of the details.
http://imgur.com/gallery/SKVHcSs (http://imgur.com/gallery/SKVHcSs)

The video also contains a lot of what was done.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pDikVUI3vk# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pDikVUI3vk#)

Sorry for not embedding all of the pics in the post

Remarkable work, TJ!  I really like the gunmetal paint that you used (not to mention the glyphs as well as the "Cat's Eye Refinement").  It's amazing how the finished product looks  :)

Point sir!

Thanks, Dutchman
Decided that, before FanX, work was needed. So the work got done

Looking good, Therion.

Thanks, Infinit01
I'll have pics of the full ensemble after FanX the first week in September

This definitely is giving me ideas for something similar of my own design. A reason to play with foam armor creation

I picked up some 1/4" EVA foam from Amazon that I used for the base on these latest pieces.
Stuff worked really well for me.
That, and foam is a LOT more forgiving than Sintra

Is that the foam roll or the puzzle mats? I've seen both used. I'm also trying to figure out a way to utilize a set of football shoulder pads as a base. There is a nice setup of costume pads for kids and I'm  trying to locate an adult version. Figured I could add to them to create something nice

The new stuff was done with foam roll. Came in 24" by 48" size.
Being only 1/4" thick, it's easier to work with than the thicker stuff, and lacks the texture found on the bottom of the puzzle mats

I will look into this. I have a design idea sketched out for both shoulders and gauntlets. Actually the gauntlets are a modified Batman gauntlet design. II'm ven trying to figure out how to modify the Iron Man helmet design with more Revan-esque visor design. Almost looks like Darth Momin.

I'd  like to try and attach a cape and hood to the shoulders.
Lots of ideas just have to figure out the execution

Pics of the full set up with the cloak attached to the shoulders

Hood up-solo pic, taken by my son at FanX last week
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Mobile%20Uploads/Resized_20190907_122005.jpeg)

Hood down-with a Halo ODST from EVA foam, also at FanX
(http://i432.photobucket.com/albums/qq45/quaralane/Mobile%20Uploads/Resized_20190907_145334.jpeg)

And one more from FanX, this is me with our local 501st garisson's Darth Revan
(http://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/69577233_1889632717739843_3617489617269293056_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&_nc_oc=AQkKgVXWxiXb3yJiCpkGNwHbcznXH8kd9B-zLIh3k6_k1XYq42BrFG5CuX-7awrh8g0&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=4b43ccc7195d1d9664ba5b52122d0a76&oe=5E100FBD)

'Official' portrait of Sith Lord Therion Jinn from FanX
(http://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/70574749_510147872862453_1956051264785612800_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&_nc_oc=AQltAOqc07tQuQfcACc-ZPC_ChApYAtLTcbDTI4kfT6ynzCbaMmn-1-Xzp-Y6xPuZOQ&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=318b32fcf5ed31a983a8ca30c26e6c4c&oe=5E01B886)

Therion Jinn
"You don't know the power of the dark side"
(http://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/70513669_510147882862452_742525138817253376_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_oc=AQlxreJB343d-koK71iRtPjOutznq4hpUywgE3P3tR-txuC-TCQAubY9uRm356a_MW0&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=e57ec7fca7d8f66f6353c6f05cd6d15d&oe=5DFE8034)

Captain Macavity and Lord Therion Jinn
Macavity is my son, wearing the chest piece I made for him
(http://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/69981700_510147922862448_4568706250631544832_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&_nc_oc=AQkp6B9n9W49tpa5Tk7vNAg80-HOvIXn8gs9XGuSI3_5lKV0PlMKwzdw_MGoTAKAiQw&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=1f3f9cceb9f4214e839ad7a5f68114bc&oe=5DFD2BF5)
(https://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/70434784_510147952862445_4920790206220599296_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_oc=AQl2yPxE5OhWWN3Mjv3amMo1OoiA-TsfU2VtTzZkQo0pX9mLIB-jKK4n9878qxLnzyw&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=7dc67a692d3d437d6abeefc11712d217&oe=5E0BB0F0)