Mando Mercs Costume Club

Mandalorian Armor => Armor Construction => Topic started by: trashcanmando on Mar 31, 2017, 09:21 PM

Title: Build 1.5 - Akaleh Skirata
Post by: trashcanmando on Mar 31, 2017, 09:21 PM
 CURRENT STATUS: OM

FUTURE UPGRADES:
-upgraded flight suit
-bladed staff
-flashlight/headlamp
-redone gauntlets
-redone plates and flak vest

FINISHED UPGRADES:
-laceless boots
-staff
-mirrored visor

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


This last year, I made my first attempt at a beskar build. Totally freestyled it, didn't come up with much of a plan, tried to go cheap as possible.  Wasn't worried at all about MMCC requirements, seeing as I got an account yesterday, lol. But now I've gathered my resolve, my funds, and support, and I'm ready to give this a shot.

Concept:
Didn't bother to draw on the boot plate after I realized I needed one, haha. I'm shooting for a simple plate that just covers the laces in solid gold. (Heavily weathered, planning on chucking those plates around in the gravel driveway  :D)

(http://i.imgur.com/qIqmAuO.jpg)

What I have so far:

Plates:
Due to my first ill-fated build, I have some salvageable parts. I'm hoping to be able to use the plates I cut out of a trashcan, but if they aren't going to work I'll just buy a full set of plates instead.
(Cut out a new collar plate today. This armor is cut from a pattern for a male. I am a rather petite female, so naturally the collar piece was too wide in proportion. I also trimmed the part of the chest plates by the arm pits down because they kept stabbing me every time I tried to move my arms forward. Anyways, that's why the collar plate is white.)
Wanted to get any problems with spacing, placement, and possible trimming addressed ASAP. (Keyplate not included, but I do have one.)

(http://i.imgur.com/7O6uvn7.jpg)

Weapons:
Thinking about replacing the small practice knife with a larger one, something like a beskad. Or keeping both.
Pocketknife is just an old handmedown from my brother. The blade doesn't lock, but it looks sweet and has a clip for belts.
I'm really pleased with the rifle, it just needs some touching on the paint job, weathering, and to connect the rifle sling (which is actually a guitar sling haha). There might be some screw holes to fill in as well. I think it was originally a prop for a Kinect console. Are the plastic covers on the bipod and barrel okay or should I see about cutting them off?
I haven't done anything to the twin pistols yet, I quite like the paintjob they have. I'd like to just fill in the screw holes and weather them up. (They light up too! The only problem is that then I can't fill in the screw to the battery compartment.)

(http://i.imgur.com/kAgLwjX.jpg)

Soft Parts:
The cloak was cut from half a blanket and then I ratted up the edges. I think I'll have to do the part that's hanging down as well, instead of just one edge. I might need to cut down the size in general, it's still a bit too wide.
I actually got a new belt since this picture was taken, and found some material for the sash, but it's just raw cloth now so I'll wait until I have that shaped up a bit more before getting an updated pic. It's pretty hard to see my belt pouch there, but I'll get a clearer picture with it soon.
The trophy string is embroidery thread braided together, with some beads, various teeth, an arrowhead, a crab claw I found in the woods, (weird place I know, I wasn't anywhere close to a river. found one of the teeth out there too.) a fish whistle, and the One Ring of Power tied on. (If including the One Ring would be a problem, I can easily remove it. I thought it was a nice little cameo, especially since it just looks like a gold band from any more than two feet away. You have to get really close to see the writing.)
Got my boots at walmart, they're both steel toe and waterproof. I love them and wear them for many other things as well, so I'd like to not have to modify them. (Rest assured, they are authentically weathered.  ;D) The boot plate would cover the brand name, which is on the tongue. The only other thing is a small tag that simply reads 'WATERPROOF'.
The gloves were super cheap at a resale store. Not anything very special, and I'd like to upgrade when I have the chance, but they do for now.

(http://i.imgur.com/VYecz3P.jpg)


Stuff I Need:
Lower plates, Gauntlets: I don't have any plates beside the beta test trashcan ones, and I'm a bit apprehensive about trying to make cod and knee plates. Then again, if I end up buying, my problems are solved. I don't even know where to start with the gauntlets, but one thing at a time.
Flight Suit: I have coveralls that I hope will fit for a flight suit coming in the mail.
Flak Vest: I have absolutely no idea what I'm going to do for that. Black duck cloth sounds good, though.
Helmet: I have accepted that it will be too inconvenient, time consuming, and expensive for me to build a helmet, so I'm planning on buying one.
Holsters and Pouches: I'm going to need at least two more pouches. The one I've got will barely fit a granola bar and pocketknife. I've got an assortment of small items I want to carry with me, ranging from food to glow sticks. I don't have any holsters at all.

Thanks for reading, I'm looking forward to this build and joining the aliit!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Cakes on Mar 31, 2017, 09:56 PM
Concept looks awesome and you got a great start. The blanket fits the part. I can't see the blasters though.
You're plates look a little big for you. I'd try the next size down for templates. You can always modfiy them once you get the basic size. The boots will work but i'd remove or paint over the waterproof.
For pouches try army surplus.  Mauser pouches are pretty common and usually have natural weathering done. I also have an old gasmask pouch for larger items i may not be able to fit.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Tythim Kirrem on Mar 31, 2017, 10:05 PM
So, you were right about the collar being too large. In fact, all of the plates look big. I would really trim down the sides of the chest plates, or work with a smaller template. It's hard to tell how far down the belly plate is, since we don't know where the belly button is (you might consider taking a second picture with your index finger on your belly button, just for reference). I understand that this is a male reference, but you can get a general idea of where the plates should end, and how far apart they should be.

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2921/32951932063_3a43fcd28e_b.jpg)

Basically, the bottom of the belly plate should end around your belly button. It shouldn't really extend further than that. As for the vest, duck cloth should work fine. It's what I had first used, before I scrapped it. It's a popular material for vests, kamas, and loincloths, actually.

While the One Ring cameo bit would be cool, and really fun, I believe all non-universe items / objects, including anything from fantasy genres, are not allowed to be worn on kit, sadly. It -might- be subtle enough to get away with, but you would really have to get a second opinion on it. I wouldn't suggest including it, personally.

Everything else looks really good, that I see. I love the concept art you've got. There should be a bunch of gauntlet tutorials and WIP's in the Armor Construction section of the forums if you're looking for inspiration and tutorials.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Mar 31, 2017, 10:39 PM
Concept looks awesome and you got a great start. The blanket fits the part. I can't see the blasters though.
You're plates look a little big for you. I'd try the next size down for templates. You can always modfiy them once you get the basic size. The boots will work but i'd remove or paint over the waterproof.
For pouches try army surplus.  Mauser pouches are pretty common and usually have natural weathering done. I also have an old gasmask pouch for larger items i may not be able to fit.


Thanks very much!
I'm not sure what would be wrong with the blaster pic, is anyone else having troubles with it?
I'll see what I can do about sizing down the plates, I was starting to get a sneaking suspicion that I needed a size smaller altogether.
Marking over the waterproof tag worked great, probably the easiest thing I'll ever have to fix lol

So, you were right about the collar being too large. In fact, all of the plates look big. I would really trim down the sides of the chest plates, or work with a smaller template. It's hard to tell how far down the belly plate is, since we don't know where the belly button is (you might consider taking a second picture with your index finger on your belly button, just for reference).

Basically, the bottom of the belly plate should end around your belly button. It shouldn't really extend further than that. As for the vest, duck cloth should work fine. It's what I had first used, before I scrapped it. It's a popular material for vests, kamas, and loincloths, actually.

While the One Ring cameo bit would be cool, and really fun, I believe all non-universe items / objects, including anything from fantasy genres, are not allowed to be worn on kit, sadly. It -might- be subtle enough to get away with, but you would really have to get a second opinion on it. I wouldn't suggest including it, personally.

Everything else looks really good, that I see. I love the concept art you've got. There should be a bunch of gauntlet tutorials and WIP's in the Armor Construction section of the forums if you're looking for inspiration and tutorials.

Understood, thank you! I'll replace the One Ring, it's not cool enough to risk it lol. And I have this cool little chicken skull just begging to be used.
Wow, the plates are a lot farther spaced than I was thinking, thank you for the reference! I'll see what I can do with the plates and get another pic as suggested!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 01, 2017, 12:54 AM
For spacing, you're allowed up to one inch between collar and chest and chest and abs, with up to a half inch around the diamond.  And I'd suggest going down a couple of sizes on the templates; those are huge on you.   :)

And I'm not sure why, but I can't see the pic of your weapons, either.
 
You're definitely on the right track with your kit.  Getting your templates, putting up the photos, taking the feedback you receive into account - you're doing great with this build, even as early in the process as you are.  I've seen a few people post up their pics then basically ignore the feedback they receive and then they have lots of trouble at application time.  So you're doing great.

Keep up the good work, vod'ika.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 01, 2017, 01:05 AM
Heh, an inch is always bigger than I think it is. I don't even remember what size these were originally, but I've got a lot of time next week to try and get the plates sorted!

I updated the weapons picture, it turned out to be that I'd changed the image name after getting the URL and that's what the issue was... I'm using the DeviantArt stash as an image host and planning to change my username next month... That's going to be absolute havoc. I'd better just get an account at an actual image hosting site. But for now the image should be fixed!

edit: I just went ahead and did it before I got too many images, everything should work now, assuming I got the right link

Ah, thanks so much! Means a lot to me to know I'm going about it right!
For some reason I have an urge to call you ba'vod... You just seem like the type of guy that is everyone's uncle, if you know what I mean. ;D Thanks so much for all the advice and support you've already given me!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Cakes on Apr 01, 2017, 09:00 AM
Blaster rifle looks good. I don't see there being an issue with the plastic covers.  You may want to take a dremel to the practice knife to change its shape (looks a little earthy), or even use it as a base for a custom blade. As for the pocket knife I'm going to think it won't be passable. Metal blades tend to be a huge no no for most events. You could repurpose the pouch for a piece of equipment, maybe a small thermo detonator
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 01, 2017, 09:24 AM
I think I'll try to use the practice knife as a base, thanks! Pity about the pocketknife, it's one of my favorite pieces, but I can't lie and say I didn't have a suspicion that it might not pass.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 01, 2017, 10:44 AM
I agree with Cakes about your weapons.  I think he's right on track.

And feel free call me ba'vod.  You'll be the first, and it's kind of cool.  :D
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Malakier Vhett on Apr 01, 2017, 11:41 AM
First off, you're off to a solid start

That said, Havelock and Tythim are dead on about your plates.Tythim did a great job explaining sizing, but I would add you want the outside of your chest and collar plate to fall just inside the shoulder joint so as to not impair your movement too much

One Ring paint job itself would be dubious at best, but you can certainly do an "inspired by" paint job.

Your weapons are a good Start, but IMO need more modding. Right now they look sci-fi, but not really Star Wars.  Star Wars tends to look more...Raw. More wires, tubes, exposed workings, etc. Remember that they used real weapons as bases. The plastic covers themselves are OK. They just need more greeblies added to make them look Swarzy.

That's all I see right now. I'll lurk and comment though. Keep it up.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 01, 2017, 05:00 PM
Nice profile pic, ba'vod.  8)

Thanks, Malakier, good reference point! Welcome aboard, the more advice I can get the better!
Thank you for the input, but I'm not sure how I feel about greeblies. I'd like to go for a cleaner, more... minimalistic look if I can manage it. Maybe it's more of an acquired taste and I'll be adding them to everything by the end of this build, lol. Do you think a lack of them would get me dinged, or is it more personal preference?

Here's some pics of how the belt is now- I want to get the extra pouches from a place that's only open once a year in the late summer (sort of a festival event, lots of great leather stuff. got most of my trophies there) and I don't have any holsters yet, but I got the sash, new belt, and updated trophies done. I know there's a little extra belt flap there, but this is just in a tshirt instead of with flight suit, flak vest, and plates, so I'm not going to trim it until I know how it is over that.

(http://i.imgur.com/65w1B7S.jpg)

The trophies laid out and a better view of the pouch- no one ring, add real skull!

(http://i.imgur.com/1wtCZI3.jpg)

Hopefully I can get down to business with the plates early next week, and the flight suit is supposed to arrive Wednesday.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Malakier Vhett on Apr 01, 2017, 05:15 PM
In of itself clean weapons without a lot of greeblies are fine. None of mine are very greeblied up in fact.  However, right now your weapons look more generic sci-fi then Star Wars. Like something out of Mass Effect or something like that. If you can find a reference picture of A Star Wars weapon with similar look you're going for, that would be best. Doesn't have to be exactly the same (heck, I turned a Clone carbine into a mare's leg), but that will give you an idea of the general look to go for.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 01, 2017, 05:30 PM
Quote
Nice profile pic, ba'vod.

Thanks!

Your belt and the pouch look great!  Waiting until you have your other soft parts is, I feel, the right thing to do before you get to trimming anything.  And those trophies are very cool.  I'm not sure about the skull, though.  It could pretty easily get damaged, and I don't if Disney/LFL's rule about "no gore" applies to actual skulls, so you'll want to check on that to be sure.

Unfortunately, your blasters might get dinged for not being star wars-y enough.  Not sure if they will or not, but it's something to keep in mind.  If you're wanting sleek and minimal, Westar 35s/Sabine's blasters definitely meet that bill, and they're pretty easy to make with sintra and pvc cement, or some wood.  Alternately, if you want to try to mod the blasters you have, you can post a pic of them in the Weapons Armory (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?board=13.0) and ask for some advice.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Apr 01, 2017, 06:52 PM
Love the concept, great start.  Following along for updates.

I agree with the feedback given so far.   8)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: ConDar Ward on Apr 01, 2017, 07:01 PM
Commenting to Follow .. welcome to the Mercs...  ;)  8)   
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 01, 2017, 11:29 PM
What they said for size. You should be able to reach not quite straight out front without getting armor bite from the collar. As for spacing, I like the rule of thumb width between plates because that automatically scales to the size of the person wearing them. Love the blanket. That level of damage/weathering is perfect - do the edges. Use your imagination. Think of who your character is, where she operates, what she does and how she moves, then let that guide what the weathering looks like. Be random with scratches and dings; uniformity is unrealistic. I was inspired by my metal water bottle and how the paint has chipped off of it over the years. Each scratch, each ding tells a story. Look for these sorts of examples around you.

As for the weapons, if you spend a little time filling in some details on them and maybe drilling or filing out new ones, then paint and weather them they may be fine. I know there are a lot of people here that can tell you exactly what they are and where you can get them. The idea is to make it so they say, "Hmm, is that a (fill in the blank)? She did a good job of fixing it up."

Glad to have you in Vhett Manda. Keep up the good work, look forward to seeing more. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 01, 2017, 11:51 PM
Welcome aboard, Fork, ConDar, and Shammah! Two from my clan and an approval team member, nice!

I found several incidents of mercs using small skulls or real bones, general consensus seems to be that small animal skulls are okay. The bigger they are, the less likely, it seems, but mine's got a beak and fits in my closed fist; it's also a lot tougher than it looks! Should it be an issue later on, it'll be really easy to switch out.

Thanks for the tips, Shammah, very good advice!

I worked on the blasters for a while until I got frustrated and switched to the beskad. I've got way more experience with stabby things than shooty things, heheh. I'm going to use Cakes' advice and try to use the practice knife for the base. This is the design I found that I liked best (straight from the beskad wookiepedia page, too, sometimes original is best ;D)

(http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/starwars/images/e/ed/Beskad.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20140129103618)

Here's the quick template mockup I did, also wrapped the handle with some leftover cloth from the sash.

(http://i.imgur.com/prvVvZ1.jpg)

Changed the blade cut out to mimic the patterns on my armor. I'm going to see what we've got for easy to work plastics lying around, more or less make a sheath for the practice knife, and glue it in.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 02, 2017, 12:44 AM
How big are you thinking of going with this? I made my beskad 18" long overall - good size for a melee weapon or chopping brush for cover. Need to think of how you're going to use each thing you carry because weight cost you when you're going into a fight so you only carry what makes sense.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 02, 2017, 01:49 AM
The blade alone is ten inches, the full beskad is 14. That was about as big as I could get it before the blade started looking ridiculous in proportion to the hilt. I found some plastic and tried a couple things, but I don't know if I like how it's turning out. I might just ditch it and find a different way to build a beskad entirely. I really like the design, though.

Two days in and I already feel like this is going to be one long line of false starts and ditched ideas, but I'll get there! We all know what Thomas Edison said about lightbulbs, after all.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 02, 2017, 09:31 AM
That he knows like 10,000 things that don't work. I built mine out of oak. Any hard wood would do, but pine is too soft for the design I used. Scale it for the finished product, the blades often look funny without the handle and beskads should be the heavy design you've chosen.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 02, 2017, 10:53 AM
And yeah, a lot of this will be trial and error.  But even the attempts that don't work out will generally teach you something, and help you make your kit even better.   :)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 02, 2017, 09:25 PM
Today I made the final decision to just buy my plates. I'd like to be able to say I built them myself, but I want this to be quality and I just don't have the experience or tools to pull it off.  My ori'vod's little sister decided she had some interest, though, so we're looking to cut down the plates I already have for the ad'ika. Nothing too fancy, but she'll feel included.

My brother is way more experienced with weapons building than me, so I recruited him to help me build the beskad. Here's the design I drew up- sixteen inches overall, the blade alone is just a tad shy of twelve. He usually builds his knives out of PVC. I personally think a wood- like oak- might be easier, but I'm not going to mess with his method.

(http://i.imgur.com/zIXXPzp.jpg)

I also finished the cloak- trimmed off some all around so it's less bulky. I feel less like I might die of heatstroke in it, lol. I also took a candle to it and singed up some of the holes and edges, make it look more like it's been through a firefight involving lasers and flaming shrapnel. Turns out it's made of a very flame retardant material, which I like, because there's no way a mando would pick something that has a tendency to go up in flames to wear on their body.

(http://i.imgur.com/1nEfQtE.jpg)

Closer shot of the burn damage:

(http://i.imgur.com/p3PsegF.jpg)

Next on the list is building the beskad and finding someone to buy a bucket and plates from!
Maybe I can start the flak vest this week, we'll see.
And the blasters, which I'm kind of avoiding because they're the only thing I've absolutely never messed with before. I did a lot of soft parts projects when I was younger, I've painted and played around with armor on occasion, and there are nine swords currently in my field of vision, but I have absolutely never done anything with a gun. Here come all those trial and errors, time to learn a bunch!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 02, 2017, 09:41 PM
I'm really glad to see you're making progress!

And don't stress too much about your blasters.  You'll knock this out.  I have faith in you, vod'ika.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 02, 2017, 10:31 PM
Nice job on the cloak, is that wool? First pictures it looked like it, but now it looks more flannel. Love the design you came up with for the beskad.

As far as buying a helmet and plates, look around in the merchant area on this site. And whatever you do please ask for recommendations from people (more than one) on the Mercs site before you buy anything. I can give you lots of horror stories about people paying hundreds of dollars for stuff that either never gets to you or is junk/unapprovable.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Apr 02, 2017, 11:42 PM
As far as buying a helmet and plates, look around in the merchant area on this site. And whatever you do please ask for recommendations from people (more than one) on the Mercs site before you buy anything. I can give you lots of horror stories about people paying hundreds of dollars for stuff that either never gets to you or is junk/unapprovable.

^This, 100 times

I'm far from an expert, but I'd be happy to discuss buckets.  I'm a bit obsessed.  I would definitely steer you away from Etsy.  Stick to the merchant area here.  I'll skip espousing the benefits of building your own bucket (again) or Shammah's eyes will roll back in his head.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 03, 2017, 12:01 AM
I'm really glad to see you're making progress!

And don't stress too much about your blasters.  You'll knock this out.  I have faith in you, vod'ika.

Thanks, ba'vod!!  8) I'll try and do you proud.

Nice job on the cloak, is that wool? First pictures it looked like it, but now it looks more flannel. Love the design you came up with for the beskad.

As far as buying a helmet and plates, look around in the merchant area on this site. And whatever you do please ask for recommendations from people (more than one) on the Mercs site before you buy anything. I can give you lots of horror stories about people paying hundreds of dollars for stuff that either never gets to you or is junk/unapprovable.

Thanks! I'm terrible about keeping my wrappers, but I poked around on walmart's site and I think it's 100% polyester. I almost want to say there's catnip in it, my cat loves lying on it so much lol.
My brother practically pounced on the beskad, and it's already roughed out and has some preliminary sanding! Gonna bulk up the handle a little, clean it up a little more, belt grind the blade, and then paint it!


I'm far from an expert, but I'd be happy to discuss buckets.  I'm a bit obsessed.  I would definitely steer you away from Etsy.  Stick to the merchant area here.  I'll skip espousing the benefits of building your own bucket (again) or Shammah's eyes will roll back in his head.

Happy to discuss buckets anytime, I think we're all obsessed here, haha!
It'd be awesome to build my own, but I already tried it three times with cardboard (uhg) and it went... poorly. If I hadn't burned myself out with those, I might be willing to give it a shot, but I also just don't trust myself to not screw up something major.

I'm having trouble finding anyone on the forums who sell just a standard Jango helmet- I'm 5'4" and might need something a little smaller, but aside from that the Droodles helmets look really promising. I tried to find the sewing tape measure to get my head circumference, but it seems to have gone mysteriously missing...
This one also looks encouraging (the one right on top there)- it's a #nobobblehead, standard Jango, and I'm loving the idea of an aluminum outer coat.-> http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=105237.0
I'd like the RF earpieces and I'm going to be picky and fill in the arrows on the dome, but I can always ask about all that. They don't sound like alterations that would be too difficult to make on my own, either, so long as I can find someone willing to sell just rangefinder sets.
And of course there's finding the visor and installing it, but that doesn't sound hard. (I just jinxed myself, didn't I?)
 I couldn't find anyone at all currently selling plates, some recommendations would be fantastic.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Malakier Vhett on Apr 03, 2017, 12:39 AM
Looks like you're on the right track!

As far as the bucket goes, if you can afford it,  go with NME props. They are the only shop that doesn't sell in the forums you'll see actively recommended,and for good reason. They're buckets are top notch, and they have a reasonable selection. They even offer visor installs for a relatively low price. They are not, however, cheap. There are also a number of good sellers here on the forums. Droodles, Dah Brahl, Vessk, and Lonewolf all also have good quality helmets. Each has their own unique offerings so it's worth checking them all out. If you're on more of a budget, you might look into TMA. They'll take a bit more work, but I understand he's recently lowered his prices and remastered his mold for better quality. You also migjt keep an eye out for B-Pulls. Sometimes you can pick up a bucket for a pretty good deal if you're willing to deal with some defects.

Be careful with buckets.  I'm up to 6...not including my fiancee's...abd I'll be getting probably 2 more before the end of the year...
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 03, 2017, 12:44 AM
As to visors, you can get a welding face shield, shade #5 for a very reasonable price.  That's what many of us use for our visors.  The welding supply shop here in town sells them for around $7.  You can find them online for pretty cheap.  As an example, you can look here (http://www.acmetools.com/shop/tools/hobart-770580?cm_mmc=Google-_-PRODUCTFEED-_-HOBART-_-770580&CAWELAID=600009240000634232&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=41665493035&CATCI=pla-268502325002&catargetid=600009240005365695&cadevice=c&gclid=CO2Ty8a8h9MCFQiSaQodgHQC5w) if there's no welding supply shop reasonably near you.

As for plates, I think the Mandalorian Arsenal sells female armor.  Check out the Who Sells What (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=89915.0) post for some good leads on vendors here on the forum.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Malakier Vhett on Apr 03, 2017, 01:04 AM
Honestly, I wouldn't buy plates. They're expensive and eCD end for the ladies not that hard  There's a very useful resources to help if you want ideas,  which you can find here (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=113742.msg1566582#msg1566582). Its more work but I honestly believe you will end up with something you are much happier with.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 03, 2017, 01:18 AM
What!! I ran all over looking for visors last year, and all I had to do was call it a welding face shield instead of welding visor replacement?? Thanks so much!

My plan so far is to just go ahead and use male built armor- it's easier to find and I'm... small. Before I got a more feminine haircut and still had teenager face, I was constantly mistaken for a guy. But I'll trawl through the femmando forums and see what they have on the topic.

Honestly, I wouldn't buy plates. They're expensive and eCD end for the ladies not that hard  There's a very useful resources to help if you want ideas,  which you can find here (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=113742.msg1566582#msg1566582). Its more work but I honestly believe you will end up with something you are much happier with.

Thanks for the advice, I'll do more research on making before I order anything, then! Right now I'm pretty much just considering my options, I won't be rushing to buy helmet or plates. Thanks for the link, too!

edit: Didn't see your reply on buckets, thanks for all of that as well, I'll be sure to check them out and consider my options well!

I did find this forum, I'm loving the idea of real metal, and it's a great price with shining recommendations, but the only problem is that the plates are just 1mm thick and I love the more solidly three dimensional plate look.
http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=61771.0
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 03, 2017, 09:53 AM
I love my Droodles, but it is large. Definitely try to make your own plates. Just be careful what material you use, 6 mm sintra is the material of choice for first kits; not terribly expensive and relatively easy to work with.  Other material that has a flex to it often won't hold paint well (bends and the paint cracks off). Some plastics won't form a persistent bond with paint or adhesives, and you're going to have to install attachments to fit it to your kit. I remember this one guy in the clan who had this thick yellow plastic... Never mind. :laugh:
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 03, 2017, 12:57 PM
Due to all the encouragement to try and make my own plates again, I printed out the templates to try and see how hard it would be to trim down what I have. The results are pretty encouraging, I'm feeling optimistic about this! I found the 5'3" templates, it turned out that on my first run I had the 5'6" ones. Whoops.

Here's how they line up on my current plates- you can see that I need about half an inch off all around.

(http://i.imgur.com/ATP6Fnt.jpg)

The collar plate that I modified is narrower than the template, which is probably the main thing I would have to change to make fit my body type. I'm more or less taking the templates as 'suggestions' and planning on reshaping where needed.
Here they are taped up on me, finger on my belly button as suggested:

(http://i.imgur.com/Jul7QAu.jpg)

I think it looks much better! Gonna need a little modification around the shoulders for my considerably less broad torso, but it's amazing what a difference half an inch made.

Here's a picture of how the beskad is coming- I was going to wait until I had the hilt bulked up and things sanded down a bit more to post a picture, but I'm too excited, and the title does say pic heavy, haha. It makes cool swishy noises when you swing it!

(http://i.imgur.com/mnP2OC5.jpg)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 03, 2017, 01:45 PM
Great job.  Your templates look pretty good.  The collar looks a bit wide for you - like it's sitting too far toward your shoulders.  If you trim a bit off, then trim the chest plates to match, you should be good to go.  From what I can tell from the picture of the templates on top of your plates...your plates may actually work as they are.  Can we get a picture of them taped on for comparison?

And hooray for cool swishy noises!  Your beskad is coming along very nicely.  Keep up the great work!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 03, 2017, 02:32 PM
I'm really tempted to suggest another 1/2" off the outside of the collar, chest and ab. Slim people don't usually need much of a bend (that's what the extra material is for) so what you see is what you get. Can you reach forward without being gouged by the collar?
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Bare Col'Mera on Apr 03, 2017, 03:14 PM

Got my boots at walmart, they're both steel toe and waterproof. I love them and wear them for many other things as well, so I'd like to not have to modify them. (Rest assured, they are authentically weathered.  ;D) The boot plate would cover the brand name, which is on the tongue. The only other thing is a small tag that simply reads 'WATERPROOF'.


I am in the same position.  I have a very nice pair of naturally weathered boots that I wear for other things, and didn't want to deface them for my kit.  So I looked for ways to cover the laces without having to glue snaps or velcro to them.  After seeing R Dano Camino's solution, that's what I went with.  I glued belt clips to the underside of the boot plates, and you can just clip them to the laces.

(http://www.theclip.com/store/images/product/D/661NP_angle_amazon.jpg)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 03, 2017, 03:34 PM
Great job.  Your templates look pretty good.  The collar looks a bit wide for you - like it's sitting too far toward your shoulders.  If you trim a bit off, then trim the chest plates to match, you should be good to go.  From what I can tell from the picture of the templates on top of your plates...your plates may actually work as they are.  Can we get a picture of them taped on for comparison?

And hooray for cool swishy noises!  Your beskad is coming along very nicely.  Keep up the great work!

Here's the templates taped onto the plates-

(http://i.imgur.com/t8FYX65.jpg)

Collar's a little funky, but I'm hoping I won't have to cut out a third one. I'll trim to the templates first and then see what needs to come off after that- thanks for the pointers on that, Shammah, the collar place is definitely still stabbing me with any forward arm movement.

Thanks so much, Bare, that sounds like a perfect solution for the boots! Does the clip slide around any or is it pretty stable?

We made a duct tape dummy today to help with the flak vest and armor placement, here's how that turned out.

(http://i.imgur.com/QQHs86H.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/AvZPiuf.jpg)

edit: Trimmed 'em up! I was way too nervous the entire time. The collar plate is probably going to need to be cut out again. I don't think it comes back far enough on my shoulders. It's definitely in need of some trimming. Maybe it should come closer to my neck, too. Does it look like I should still narrow the chest plates out?

(http://i.imgur.com/LozLlRQ.jpg)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: jett drexel on Apr 03, 2017, 05:59 PM
hello mate, your collar plate should be up as high as you can get it without choking yourself this will give you that extra space to play with i think then it's a simple case of measuring your other plates off the collar plate. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 03, 2017, 06:12 PM
Jett's right, vod'ika.  :) 

And your plates are still looking pretty wide.  If you take a look at Jango:

(http://i1148.photobucket.com/albums/o568/larpbrett/Jango-CHRON_zpsptkzvxz2.jpg) (http://s1148.photobucket.com/user/larpbrett/media/Jango-CHRON_zpsptkzvxz2.jpg.html)

You can see just how much of his torso his plates don't cover.  You'll want the sides of the collar to end far enough from your shoulders that it doesn't interfere with your mobility.  Then cut your torso plates to match the lines of your collar.

The spacing for your plates appears to be pretty even, so I think vertically your plates are good.  You just need to get the width trimmed, and you'll be golden.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 03, 2017, 09:28 PM
Is that the latest picture of your plates? Definitely need to be narrower. Havelock's right, look at Jango then look at that picture. The collar is about right for size, but the chest needs trimming (maybe on the inside - chest diamond side). That should bring a little length back to fill in the gap between collar and ab once your collar is up. You may want to slide them together in the middle and see if that will actually help before trimming. Then the ab will need trimming on the outside edge to match the chest plates. Don't be too shy, follow the same contour on the inside of the chest and outside of the ab edges and you'll be fine. Raise the collar, keep the same spacing, belly button is just below the ab plate. That space will be filled with belts, and that will pull everything together. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 03, 2017, 09:52 PM
It's looking like I'm gonna need a whole new collar plate again... the neckline is too shallow, so I can't get it up any farther, and the tab thingies don't go far enough back on my shoulders.

It feels so counter intuitive for plates to actually cover so little. Nothing covering your floating ribs and having full inch gaps between your plates goes straight against my practical soul, and I keep thinking of the weak points in the armor... But I got everything trimmed up!

(http://i.imgur.com/BYMjjpf.jpg)

I think it looks pretty much okay, gonna need a new collar piece. From that angle the chest plates almost look like they could use still more off, but they're a little bit distorted from where the duct tape holds them down. I don't want to take any more off until I know how they are attached to the flak vest.
And the duct tape kept falling off, so the gap between the chest plates and collar plates looks bigger than it actually is... it just wouldn't stick to the shirt. Shoulda taped the plates to each other.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 03, 2017, 10:03 PM
Once you've got your flak vest, we'll be able to get a better idea of your plate fittings.  The vest will bulk you up more than you'd think.  I'm pretty sure, though, that you'll need to trim the width on your chest and ab plates more.  Oh, and you don't have to have a full inch spacing. 

Quote
It feels so counter intuitive for plates to actually cover so little. Nothing covering your floating ribs and having full inch gaps between your plates goes straight against my practical soul, and I keep thinking of the weak points in the armor... But I got everything trimmed up!

And I am so there with you! 

From the CRLs:

Quote
MUST be fitted and spaced correctly depending on armor/body type. Good rule of thumb, maximum spacing should equal no more than 1 inch between collar/chest/gut plates. No more than 1/2 inch between diamond and chest plates.
Must be of adequate size in proportion to your chest area. Chest plates should not exceed 1 inch beyond edge of collar maximum.

So you've got some wiggle room.  :D

But lack of really complete coverage is why my eventual goal of joining the Force Hunter Brigade has me planning on adding flank plates, and having my biceps, thighs, and shins as enclosed as possible.  hehe
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 03, 2017, 11:21 PM
I'll probably end up with roughly half an inch spacing all around.... I like it closer together, proportionally, and my proportions are already super scaled down, haha.

Dude! Force Hunter Brigade would be amazing! Have you considered Legacy armor? The overlapping plates look considerably more protective.

I take a martial arts class and have been obsessed with armor since I was, like... ten. Being so small, I rely on a lot of speed and mobility, so Legacy and full coverage plates wouldn't work for me, but I sure do like my body armor. Technically, though, the flak vest is also very protective, and the plates more or less get all the vital organs, so I suppose if you think of the flak vest as armor as well...
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 03, 2017, 11:35 PM
I considered Legacy, but with Boba being my favorite character, I really wanted to go Modern Era.  Plus...I'm still very much a newbie at this, and a Legacy build is probably a bit beyond me at the moment.  heh

In the stories I've written for my mando, the flak vest and flight suit are both additional armor.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 04, 2017, 09:00 AM
I think you've got it. Still look a bit wide though. The upper outside chest corners should line up with the lower outside of those on the collar. The shoulder plates will need a little shortening. That they no longer look proper scale is witness to how much you've taken off the rest. Your collar is right on the outside, but may be loose about the neck, neck seal and buy'ce will affect the look of that.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 05, 2017, 06:32 PM
Okay, last picture for the chest plate trimming, I hope! At least until I get the flak vest done and see how everything is on that. I took about 3/4ths of an inch off the shoulder plates, but that's all that's different in this one.

(http://i.imgur.com/WZ6GVE3.jpg)

I worked on the back plates today- ended up with four plates instead of three, and I added an unplanned little indent in the middle there. Saw it on a couple other back plate designs like this one and really liked it! They might need just a touch more trimming for spacing, and they look like they stick out on the dummy, but I'm not too worried about it. I'm sure it'll look different with the flight suit and flak vest instead of taped straight onto a mannequin. And of course the blanket cloak will cover most of that. At least when it's not too hot to wear it, heh.

(http://i.imgur.com/0XE4GCk.jpg)

Also, look what came in the mail today!

(http://i.imgur.com/pTFs16d.jpg)

I'm actually shocked that it fits so well, I was sure a men's 34 would be way too big on me. It's actually a tad tight in places, like around the armpits. And when I raise my arms straight up, the crotch seam rides right up... I'm considering sending it back and getting a 36, but I'm not really sure how much bigger that would be, and maybe coveralls are supposed to be tight in places. I won't sew any pockets shut until I'm sure, though.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: jett drexel on Apr 05, 2017, 06:52 PM
looks good.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 05, 2017, 10:55 PM
The flight suit is awesome. You won't be reaching straight up much if ever when kitted because your back and collar plates probably won't let you. Also, don't know if you've considered hemming the legs. Two things to consider there: 1. I sewed some thick elastic strapping on the end of my legs that runs between the soul and heel of my boots. Works great for keeping everything in place while trooping, but stretchy so I can sit down (watch your pant legs when you sit and you'll see what I'm talking about). I suggest anyone wearing a one piece flight suit do the same. 2. Can you work some of that length into hiding your boot laces so your boot plates don't have to work so hard at it? Just a thought.

I really think those torso plates are close. The shoulders still look a little long, but that could change after you get them on a vest. And I like your back plate design. Vhett Manda is cursed with difficulties when it comes to making them, looks like you dodged that. Keep it up, you're going in the right direction. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 06, 2017, 12:42 AM
Realized I said the only thing I changed about the plates was the shoulder plates, but I forgot that was the first pic with the new collar plate. The new one's much better.

Thanks for the encouragement!
My plan for the flight suit legs was to sew a strip of elastic on the bottoms so they hook under my heel. The boots I have are horrible about keeping pants legs inside them, and I'm of the opinion that if you're going to have boots, your pants should stay in them, as to show off your awesome boots! Guess my boot plates are stuck working extra hard.  ;D
I'm still considering getting a size up on the flight suit... it's right on borderline tight enough to be uncomfortable. But I'll probably just decide it's too much trouble and make do with this one, heh. The woes of ordering online, I really need to just be able to try a couple on.

Yesss I have avoided the curse! I have a feeling that a traditional back plate probably would have went really badly. Can't wait to get all the plates painted and weathered! And then start on all the more complicated lower plates and gauntlets, oh boy. Unfortunately, it's really wet and rainy right now.
What's this blackwash I keep seeing people talking about anyhow? I saw a trick with brushing on black chalk dust and sealing it for a carbon dust look, I really liked that.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 06, 2017, 08:52 AM
Black wash is a generic term for weathering with paint to make things look dirty/grungy. I say generic because operations on different planets may mean your dirt is a different color. I used black for good ol' Iowa clay. The process is simple enough and there is more than one. I used a water-based latex, applied it with a wet sponge and stopped when it looked honest. Consider, you've brushed up against something dirty, what color is the dirt? How high was what you brushed up against? Which way were you travelling: walking, crawling, ducked up against it for cover? How long you been out? Hours? Days? Weeks?

You need to do what you need to do on the flight suit. If it's uncomfortable change it, but bagginess is not good. My suit's a bit baggy, you learn how and where to tuck it in.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 06, 2017, 10:19 AM
For me, damaging, painting, and weathering were the most fun parts of the build!  I think you'll enjoy it to, vaar'ika. 

The flight suit looks great, but like Shammah said, if it's uncomfortable, it's uncomfortable.  If you need to go a size up, go ahead and do it.  Be prepared to take a larger flight suit in some, though. 

For my black wash, I started with black acrylic paint, then watered it down significantly,  Then I added brown, and more water.  That turned out to be too thin, and I was running out of black and brown, so I added some red, and just to see what it looked like, a bit of red, blue, and purple, too.  When I started applying my mix with a brush, the red seemed to dominate, but with my bronze kit, I turned out pretty nicely, I think.

For the barrels on my blasters I used some black eye-shadow for carbon scoring, then sealed that with hair spray.

I'd suggest you paint up some of your scrap sintra and experiment with different paints or chalk dusts, or fuller's earth, and just play with them until you get the particular dirty look that looks best to you, then go to town on your kit.  Also, check out this awesome weathering video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXzxEqdvuIE) by Adam Savage.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 06, 2017, 12:17 PM
I decided to keep this flight suit. Shammah's right, the plates are likely to end up limiting my flexibility more than the suit ever will, and it's perfectly alright if I'm not curling all the way over or reaching for the ceiling. It's built to wear jeans underneath, though, so the legs are going to need taken in a bit. But I only see two pockets that won't be covered by the belt or flak vest!

Lots of great weathering tips! Fantastic video, ba'vod. I'm hoping to paint the plates I've got today, maybe I'll get to start on weathering.

I'm starting to think about the other plates- for the gauntlets, maybe some PVC. For the boots, knees, and cod, I'd like to do them out of trash can plastic too. The knees might take some modifying- I'm thinking about getting some knee pads and using them as plate carriers. The trash cans I've found don't have enough curve for the traditional knee plates, I'll have to improvise. I cut out the boot plate templates and sized them up to my boots- they don't cover the top inch of lace, so I'm considering wrapping more blue fabric from the sash around that part and having a plate/wrap combo. And then I'm going to scour the femmando forums for cod plate advice, heh.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 06, 2017, 01:58 PM
You are all over this, vaar'ika! 

Looking forward to more pics.  Keep up the excellent work!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 06, 2017, 04:07 PM
For gauntlets I've seen some great stuff come out of PVC pipe. Takes a little work, but easy to work with if you have access to a dremel tool and some 2-part epoxy. Here's a decent tutorial: http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=90543.0 (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=90543.0). There's a whole page of threads dedicated to gaunts under "Armor Construction". PVC makes good armor period, and you can pick it up free at a lot of construction sites. Just ask before they throw it away.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 06, 2017, 04:22 PM
Thanks, ba'vod!!

I got the plates done today, despite it being way too windy for spray paint. They blew across the yard multiple times...  :rolleyes: Had to drag everything to the garage for cover, back out for lighting, into the house for detailing... I am not a patient person, and today's my last day of my abnormally long break from work, so I had to make it count!

Here they are after sanding (helps the paint stick better since it's trash can plastic and gives them a nice scratched up texture), a few layers of silver, one of gold, and detailing. Then I took a knife and scratched off the gold, touched up where I accidentally cut through to the white plastic, fixed some chipping on the old plates, and did some blackwash!

I experimented with the chalk/carbon dust trick, but didn't like it, and I'm thrilled with how they look just like this. The whole thing was maybe the most fun I've had on this build so far! I'm going to seal them too, but before I do I wanted to check that nothing looks off.

(http://i.imgur.com/4KJUHAO.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/sT9UOJX.jpg)

Thanks, Shammah, fantastic tutorial! I'm going to look around at walmart for another can for boots and knees, and some sort of gauntlet cylinder. One of the employees is getting to know me and odd weird needs really well....
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 06, 2017, 04:50 PM
It's hard to tell for sure without them being on you, but as they are right now, they look pretty frakking awesome!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: jett drexel on Apr 06, 2017, 05:05 PM
toilet brush holders.... i kid you not there are some pretty good gauntlet builds that have used them as the base.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 06, 2017, 05:16 PM
^^That^^
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 07, 2017, 01:41 AM
It's hard to tell for sure without them being on you, but as they are right now, they look pretty frakking awesome!

 ;D Ori'vor'e! I held them all up to myself to be sure the paint was lined up alright, kinda tired of taping them on to myself, heh...

toilet brush holders.... i kid you not there are some pretty good gauntlet builds that have used them as the base.

I went to walmart this evening and tried to find some... Ended up finding a plastic drinking glass first. Now that it's home, I think it might be too short, and the plastic is definitely too think and hard to cut... So I guess I'm up two plastic glasses, but I'll have to keep looking for toilet brush holders.

I also got two small waste cans at walmart- the curve was ideal for knee and boot plates, and they were less than a buck each! The plastic is a lot bendier than the cans I used for the rest of the plates, but that suits me just fine. I got my pieces cut out:

(http://i.imgur.com/VglTLDx.jpg)

I might shorten up the boot plates, they really don't need to come down that far over the boot, the lace ends about two inches before the plate. I'm going to attach some of the blue cloth from the sash to the tops and use it to help tie the plate on and cover the top of the laces. Didn't find any belt clips, but I'll keep looking.
Also got some duck cloth, and I hope to alter the flight suit and start on the flak vest Wednesday. After that, all the major things I really need is the helmet and weapons, and I'll be remarkably close to finished! I am shocked at how quickly this is going.

Weapons update- decided to ditch the rifle for now and go with just the beskad and twin pistols. Maybe after I get approved, I'll upgrade with a staff/spear and add the rifle. I'd also like to add a removable blade to the gauntlet, but that will be an upgrade as well.
While we're on gauntlets, I'm getting too many ideas to keep up with- originally, I was going to attach a spotlamp to the helmet, but I think I'm just going to put it on the gauntlet instead. I'd like the right one to have the light and eventually the removable blade, and I want to mount a phone in the left one. Can't decide if the phone will be part of the approvable kit or an upgrade.

EDIT: Got the lower plates painted and weathered! As I type this all that's left is sealing them. I'm pretty pleased with them!

(http://i.imgur.com/cnwkLUK.jpg)

Also, last night at walmart I found these cheap little plastic flutes- eight for 96 cents. So I figured, hey, I'll buy them, repaint them and glue on something pointy, have a silly little joke bes'bev! Nothing serious, just carry it around in a belt pouch so I can be like 'Have you heard of bes'beve? They're this awesome mandalorian weapon that's half flute and half knife!' and play it up to sound really awesome, and then I whip out this dinky little penny toy version. Me and my ori'vod spent the entire ride home laughing about it.

Well, there's just one slight problem. It ended up looking too good.
I guess it's still funny on account of it being about four inches long, though. In any case, here it is-

(http://i.imgur.com/MrQ9xfa.jpg)

The plastic was really hard to work with. There was this stupid bell on the end, and when I heated it up to cut it off, it just started melting. I managed to get it off, but the end's pretty warped. Not a big deal, seeing as this was meant to be a stupid joke prop. But then I went and took the paintjob seriously, so...
I have seven more of these, but I don't really think it's worth a redo. In any case, they were like eleven cents each and the modifying took maybe half an hour total, so it's whatever.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 08, 2017, 10:25 PM
Started altering the flight suit today- got all the leg pockets off with a surprising amount of ease and sewed the leg slits shut. I also hemmed the sash so it wouldn't fray and dump loose blue thread all over me... added a couple extra inches for ease of knot-tying as well. Glued one side of elastic on to the knee plates, and now I'm just feeling my way through attaching it to the other side.

I'd like to make it a velcro closure so I can adjust the tightness and so I don't have to slip them on over my belt, but all the velcro I have has sticky backs and it's a pain to sew through... One more thing for the shopping list, sew on velcro!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 08, 2017, 11:01 PM
My wife found out the hard way that sewing machines and sticky-backed velcro are not destined to be friends.   :laugh:  So for the time being, I'm securing the velcro to my various cloth bits with lots and lots of glue. 

Mk II will have sewn velcro.  heh
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Malakier Vhett on Apr 09, 2017, 12:46 AM
You can use isopropyle alcohol to remove the sticky from sticky back velcro
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 09, 2017, 01:20 AM
Ooooh, sewing machine and sticky back velcro sounds painful... Hopefully the machine survived that encounter.  ;D I tried it with a needle and thread and nearly stabbed myself far too many times and ruined the needle.

You can use isopropyle alcohol to remove the sticky from sticky back velcro

Woah! Good to know, thanks!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 09, 2017, 09:38 AM
What Malakier said, or order it on line from Walmart for in-store pick up. They were the cheapest last I looked.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Apr 09, 2017, 09:56 AM
...order it on line from Walmart for in-store pick up.

This^  Amazon has it for comparable, but you'll have to pay shipping unless you have Amazon Prime.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Odran Krayt on Apr 11, 2017, 04:46 PM
In regards to the sticky back Velcro, I've found that it works well as an iron-on Velcro.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 11, 2017, 04:53 PM
I tried the alcohol trick, but either I found the wrong stuff or I did it wrong, cause nothing really happened. Thanks for the tip, Orar, I'll see what I can do on some scrap material today!

I think I've finsihed the flight suit alterations, but I wanted to be sure.
I took the legs in quite a bit, and sewed elastic to the bottom of the pants so they'd stay inside the boot. They're stitched on the outer side and just safety pinned on the inside with some extra slack in case I need to adjust tightness or placement, which is good cause as I type this the elastic is actually tight enough to make the bottoms of my feet fall asleep...  ;D
It's possible the pants are still a tad baggy, but I wear almost exclusively skinny jeans or other tighter fitting pants, so straight cut jeans feel baggy to me too and I'm not quite sure how much loose material is ok.

(http://i.imgur.com/FU0JSlx.jpg)

The knee plates slide down every five steps, so it's a good thing I was already planning on velcro to help hold them up. Gonna hold off until I know if I need to take the legs in any more. Sorry about the slightly blurry picture, I was half crouching to try and get a good shot of my legs haha

I also can't find belt clips anywhere for the life of me, so I'm thinking about maybe using money clips to hold the boot plates over the laces.

I messaged Jas'ika from forge props a week ago to ask about a bucket, haven't heard back yet... Anyone know how long replies from sellers usually take and when I should try again?
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 11, 2017, 05:39 PM
With the craziness of everybody trying to get ready for Celebration, most of the vendors are probably swamped and/or traveling.  I'd give it until after Celebration is over before messaging Jas'ika again.  :)

The flight suit legs still look a bit baggy to me, but you'll to get a second opinion for sure.  And since many of the App Team are going to Celebration...it may take a day or two for another opinion.

As for using a money clip to hold the plate on your laces, that's an ingenious idea.  Give it a shot!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 11, 2017, 08:21 PM
Hmmm, K. Thought you were going on the outside with your pant legs. That's going to be a lot of laces to cover. You could do spats and attach your plates to them. This is the attachment I used:
(http://i1294.photobucket.com/albums/b617/Shammahmando/IMG_20151003_091648_zpsv1cmyxf4.jpg)

You can see the clip attached to the inside that clips around the laces, then a strap that goes around the back of the heel to hold it in place. This gives good float so you can walk comfortably, but everything stays in place all day. ;)

As for the legs, yeah, still a little baggy. You want to hit that sweet spot that looks fitted but isn't uncomfortable.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 11, 2017, 08:49 PM
Ohhh, yeah, I forgot Celebration was so soon. Well, I'll try again in a week, then.

I took the pants legs in more and I think I found that sweet spot, but I'm going to wait until I have the boot plates done and get a full shot of my legs then. Couldn't find any money clips, belt clips, or anything comparable, but that's probably good, cause that simpler clip looks a lot easier! I'm planning on using some blue cloth similar to the waist sash to wrap around the upper laces and help tie it in place.

I tried the iron on trick with the adhesive velcro, and it worked decently, but I still wanted it to be stronger, so I ended up sewing that in too. Got some sew in velcro cause if I'm going to end up going over the adhesive anyways.... But everything below my waist besides the boot plates is finished, and it feels super cool! I can't wait to see how cool full kit feels!  ;D
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Apr 11, 2017, 09:57 PM
You're going at a good clip with these updates.  :D  Good work!  Sewing on velcro is must IMO; I don't trust adhesive back stuff either.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 12, 2017, 10:26 PM
Thanks, Fork!  :D
Finished up the boot plates today and sewed more velcro on the knees- mainly what I did was help my ori'vod alter her flight suit! Her concept forum's up here- http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=131689.0
I'm pretty excited about her build, I went mostly traditional, but she wants night owl helmet, is going to buy female plates from the arsenal, is going to make a kama, and is going for shinees, so it's going to be a fun time! Glad I'm doing my build first so I already know what I'm doing, heh... Her flight suit alterations were pretty painless after I'd already struggled through my own.

Here's my finished altered flight suit with all the lower plates and what I have for the belt so far:

(http://i.imgur.com/E0jkeGA.jpg)

I moved the trophies to behind my pouch, cause they were knocking and swinging all over my cod plate and it was a tad annoying:

(http://i.imgur.com/xV5kD5h.jpg)

I'm pretty pleased with everything except the boot plates. They look fine from the front and in the pictures, but when I look down at them they're flaring out quite a bit, even with the tie holding them down somewhat. And I attached the clip with velcro because it was impossible to work the clip into the laces with the plate on it, so this way I can insert the clip and then place the plate, as shown:

(http://i.imgur.com/rFsJzzR.jpg)

The problem with this is that whenever I walk it makes a velcro ripping noise, which is the velcro coming off and reattaching with every step. I think I'm just going to rivet the clip on straight through the plate and put up with the difficulties of working the plate into the laces every time. And I need to glue the straps on again because I forgot to clean the residue paint off the plates before I glued...

Overall, the boot plates are functional, I guess, (after I glue the fabric again and rivet the clip) but a pair of good laceless boots are definitely going on the upgrades list.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 12, 2017, 10:56 PM
The clips for the boot plates don't have to be terribly tight, mine are fairly open in fact. That leaves lot's of room for them to float back and forth as you walk. The trick is, get the clip wide enough that the plate doesn't float off to the side, and loose enough so you can point the toe of your boot and slip the plate on.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Ruus bal'Neta on Apr 13, 2017, 12:10 PM
I use elastic for my boot plates, both around the back (heel) and under the boot. I have tan boots and found some tan elastic that I just weathered to match the boots as well as I could. I don't have any problems with them coming loose or sliding around at all. My boots have a zipper closure on the side (in addition to the laces) and the plates stay on the boots all the time.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 13, 2017, 03:21 PM
Thanks for the tips- I glued the velcro clips on permanently and figured out that I can slip the clip in before I put the boot on and make things way easier for myself. There's also that loop thing on the back of the boots that I've never been able to figure out a use for- if I thread the cloth through that at the back, it stays tighter and everything holds better, so I'm much happier with my boot plates after figuring that stuff out.

Still gonna look for some good laceless boots for upgrading though, I'm not a huge fan of the boot plate look in the first place.

I was hoping to start work on the flak vest today, and it might still happen, but my progress is going to be waaay down for Easter. No complaining, this is probably one of my favorite holidays, but I am anxious to get the flak vest!

EDIT: Got the flak vest patterned out and constructed! It wasn't nearly as hard as I thought it would be, but it does still need a few alterations.

(http://i.imgur.com/YYIoGhw.jpg)

Black... may have not been the most photogenic choice of soft parts colors. I added lines for where the shoulders and hem ends- that bottom 'hem' is actually folded up, it ends slightly lower than that and will need to be taken up about an inch. I put on all the kit I have so far and held up the plates, I think the spacing looks pretty good! My one concern is the shoulder plates:

(http://i.imgur.com/rHjrx2B.jpg)

Line for where the shoulder on the flak vest currently ends. I've got to add shoulder bells yet, but they'll have to be awfully big to come from the end of the shoulder seam down to the entire plate... Can the shoulder plate hang off the flak vest shoulder, or does it have to be entirely backed by the flak vest? I can move them up a little and trim a bit off the plates. I really hope it's not a matter of extending the shoulder seam farther, or maybe I'll just have slightly larger than normal shoulder bells or something.

I took a collar from a knit turtleneck and sewed it on, saves a lot of trouble trying to fit my head into a stiff duck cloth collar. The problem is that with this collar, it pushes on the back of my neck and if I wear it for much longer than like, ten minute, I start getting neck pain. Once I wore the shirt the collar came from for about three hours and had a horrible neck and headache. The same thing happens to me with some necklaces. I'm thinking about reinforcing the collar with some cereal cardboard to hold it off my neck a bit more, since stiffer collars don't do that to me.

I also started sweating just kitting up, so my idea to get an alternative summer flight suit is looking like a really good one. It was a bit warmer than usual in the house, but there's no way I'm going to be able to do troops in the middle of summer as is. At least without constantly tucking ice cubes down my back.  ;D

Oh, I also got a cheap recorder today. I loved that stupid tiny bes'bev back on the last page so much that I had to make a better one, even if I don't end up officially adding it to my kit.

I'm really excited to work out the rest of the flak vest and get on to attaching plates, though! After that, I'll be on the downhill slope!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Jenga on Apr 14, 2017, 07:55 AM
Your shoulder plate can definitely hang off the flak vest. In fact, the shoulder wings on the vest are technically optional.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 14, 2017, 08:51 AM
Wait, for real? You just mount them to the flight suit then?
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Jenga on Apr 14, 2017, 09:03 AM
They still have to be mounted to the vest, but you're allowed to mount them just hanging on the edge. Nothing is required to be underneath them
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 14, 2017, 09:15 AM
Huh. Okay, thanks!

I decided I'm going to just completely redo the collar- the one I've got gave me a headache so bad that Ibuprofen only dented it and I still had it when I was trying to fall asleep at midnight. After I only wore it for about fifteen minutes. I really doubt a little extension and some cardboard will fix that problem.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 14, 2017, 09:45 AM
I sport a neck seal out of duck cloth that is independent of the vest and velcros to itself for a closure. They're pretty easy once you get a look at them, I'll see if I can find a link.

I have no tabs under my shoulder bells. Here's something you may be missing, look at the mount angle of the bells from the front. Ideally (at least in my mind) the outside should be at a 45 degree angle, go back and look at Jango. You get that by mounting them higher up on the vest. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Apr 18, 2017, 11:41 PM
Wow, vaar'ika!  I have absolutely nothing constructive to add at the moment, I just wanted to comment and tell you how amazed I am at your progress.  You're ripping right through this!  I'm so proud of you.   ;D
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 21, 2017, 09:24 PM
45 degrees, got it- yeah, I've been testing this with the shoulder plates way too low.

Wow, vaar'ika!  I have absolutely nothing constructive to add at the moment, I just wanted to comment and tell you how amazed I am at your progress.  You're ripping right through this!  I'm so proud of you.   ;D

 :D :D Thanks, ba'vod!! You aren't called the motivat'alor for nothing!

After a busy week full of getting called in to work, first day at a volunteer center, and Easter aftermath, I have another update! Most of my progress this week has been just finding someone to get a helmet from. I finally found someone today who does scaled down Fett helmets with rangefinders! They have a sizable waiting list though, unsurprisingly. Forum name is Dha Bral, if any of you've heard of him.

Put the finishing touches on the flak vest today! My sewing method is more of a guess-and-check than an actual system but it works.  :P The collar is a lot looser and isn't giving me pressure headaches anymore, but the neck seam is juuusst barely loose enough to get over my head (I got stuck once and had to get my Dad to pull me out haha)

(http://i.imgur.com/25DBWIp.jpg)

Side view, you can see that the collar has a ton of room. And that's the side with the velcro flaps, both on the side and neck.

(http://i.imgur.com/bMvhBiB.jpg)

I got one side of the velcro attached to the plates, and did the final trim on them! (adventures included melting a bit of velcro, and taking a chunk of a chest plate out accidentally)

(http://i.imgur.com/aW3xYBu.jpg)

Now I just have no idea how to figure out where the other side of the velcro goes on the flak vest... Any tips?

We also got toilet brush holders this week (boy that was fun to explain to the cashier, two teenage girls buying four toilet brushes with holders) so I hope to start on the gauntlets after I get the plates attached! When that's all finished, all I'll have to do is the helmet and the weapons, I'm super excited!

This leaves my soft parts almost entirely complete, the only thing I have left is to get a few more pouches!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Apr 21, 2017, 10:34 PM
I finally found someone today who does scaled down Fett helmets with rangefinders! They have a sizable waiting list though, unsurprisingly. Forum name is Dha Bral, if any of you've heard of him.

You're in great hands with Dha.  I would offer to help with the bucket, but with my workshop torn apart and still getting through a couple buckets for clan members I don't know if I could get yours done faster than Dha could.

I got one side of the velcro attached to the plates, and did the final trim on them! (adventures included melting a bit of velcro, and taking a chunk of a chest plate out accidentally)

Battle damage ftw.

Now I just have no idea how to figure out where the other side of the velcro goes on the flak vest... Any tips?

The best shot is having Cy'mur or Shammah (or maybe me, but I'm not the best at spacing) help you get everything positioned correctly.  Trying to do that yourself is super frustrating.  I had them help me get everything positioned correctly, traced around the plates with a washable fabric pen and then sewed on my velcro appropriately.  BEFORE you sew on the velcro I would take pics and post them in the VMC pre-app thread.  You'll get the attention of app team members and get direct feedback.

VMC pre-app thread--->http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=110126.0 (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=110126.0)

Hope that helps.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 21, 2017, 11:12 PM
Awesome progress vod! Pretty much what Fork said. I think the loose collar is great, by the time you have your buy'ce on no one will notice and it may give a nice seal effect. You should try to get velcro farther around though, don't want any loose flap showing. You may also want to redesign the should to put a zipper or velcro closure at the neck so you can get in and out easier. The vest seems a little loose through the body, but that may well change once you have your flight suit on.

There was a comment you made a while back about how hot it was when you got into your kit. I meant to mention at the time that they're all hot, you get used to it. Every time I kit up it takes about 20 minutes to get comfortable, then I'm good for the day. Guess I'm just saying don't think the discomfort lasts, and once you're interacting with the crowd you forget all that. However, like the neck seal, look for what is really uncomfortable and fix it as you go.

Keep it up, you're doing great. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 25, 2017, 10:48 PM
Ahhg, too bad I live so far south... I'm sure I can find some help, definitely post pictures before sewing... Probably the part I'm looking forward to least, besides the blasters.

Glad to hear the heat isn't noticeable after a while! I'll check into an extra velcro flap on the shoulder.

Worked on gauntlets today- it's not in any state for pictures, but I got everything cut out and started attaching hinges. I couldn't get the screws to bite into the plastic, so they're glued on with E600. At this point my kit is held together mostly with guesswork, E600, and good advice, haha.

There's a small detachable blade for the gauntlet too! It's a really really simple design but I think it's pretty cool. I'll get pictures after all the hinges are attached.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Malakier Vhett on Apr 26, 2017, 09:40 AM
Nooooo not e6000!

Seriously, I hate that stuff. Only had it actually do it's job 2 or 3 times out of dozens of times trying it. Superglue and 2 part epoxy for the win!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: jett drexel on Apr 26, 2017, 10:45 AM
i gotta agree with mal, 2 part epoxy beats e-6000 hands down.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Apr 26, 2017, 12:17 PM
I've used e6000 to put hook side of velcro in my plates and had every piece come loose. Which reminds me, be sure to put the hook side on your armor. Otherwise washing your soft parts can get interesting. :laugh:

Definitely worth the effort to use epoxy. Just make sure you have everything lined up and ready to go before you mix it. It's amazing how fast 5 minutes passes when you're putting things together.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 26, 2017, 03:33 PM
Ohh no. Well, I guess it's time to go glue shopping again.

Fortunately, I did attach the hook velcro to the plates and the soft velcro is set up to go on the flak vest. So glad I won't have to rip all that off!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on May 07, 2017, 10:20 PM
Hooo okay. It's been a bit, vode, but I'm back with another update! Work got busy, everything else got busy, everything is still busy, but I've been putting in some work on the gauntlets. I feel bad for the people who go with something complex, just two hard shells have been kicking my butt.

I kept thinking I was going to have to come on like 'yeah, here's pictures of the total trainwreck my gauntlets turned out to be, this is all I've done in the last three weeks, gonna remake them with PVC.' But the damage was never as bad as I thought it was going to be, so I'm proud to finally present them, fresh out of the blackwash stage!

(http://i.imgur.com/DWMnIli.jpg)

Some of the body plates for color comparisons. I ran out of silver spraypaint and the store didn't have a silver I liked in the brand I had for gold, so I bought another can of gold too, and it was technically the same shade, but it was double coverage, so my gauntlets ended up a little darker gold than the rest of my plates. You can't really tell unless you're looking for it, though, so I'm not worried.

I got lucky and the E600 actually worked really well (this time)! I have one or two ideas for the closures, gonna have to mess around and see what works and what I like.

I really should have done that before painting, but I made a lot of mistakes while cutting them out of the toilet brush holders, and wanted to be sure they weren't too badly damaged. You can see some of the damage there, mostly on the top of the gauntlet on the right. This plastic was very different from the stuff the trash cans were made out of, and it actually started melting a few times.... I discovered the benefits of keeping a bucket of water close by when heating plastic  :laugh: (turns out you can flash dry hot glue by dunking it in water too)

I made a second cod plate, cause the first one had this annoying habit of not staying under the sash belt. New one comes up farther and shouldn't have that issue. Generally looks more solid all around.

(http://i.imgur.com/dTvVE2A.jpg)

Hope it won't be so long before my next update again, but it's graduation season and I work at a bakery, so who knows.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on May 07, 2017, 10:47 PM
I dig the gauntlets.  Nobody will notice the color difference between the gauntlets and other plates.  Even if they do a little asymmetry always makes things more interesting IMO.  Keep doing little bits at a time and you'll be done before you know it.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on May 08, 2017, 11:57 AM
Those gauntlets look great, vaar'ika!  And I think the new cod will work out much better for you, so good job on that, too.

By the way...have I mentioned I really like your color choices?   :P
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on May 08, 2017, 08:35 PM
Color looks fine. Just don't get your gaunts too close to the rest of your plates like by picking your nose or something and no one will know! :P :laugh:
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Kryamla Redalur on May 08, 2017, 08:49 PM
Following with interest :)

Btw, I think the new cod looks nice!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on May 09, 2017, 06:11 PM
I dig the gauntlets.  Nobody will notice the color difference between the gauntlets and other plates.  Even if they do a little asymmetry always makes things more interesting IMO.  Keep doing little bits at a time and you'll be done before you know it.

Color looks fine. Just don't get your gaunts too close to the rest of your plates like by picking your nose or something and no one will know! :P :laugh:

 :laugh: Glad to hear you guys don't think it'll be noticeable! Honestly, if someone can manage to pick their nose with gloves and a buy'ce on, they have my respect.  :P
I'm really shocked at how fast this is all coming together, I pretty much just have the helmet, weapons, attaching plates, and a few finishing touches to do! Just gotta keep chipping away!

Those gauntlets look great, vaar'ika!  And I think the new cod will work out much better for you, so good job on that, too.

By the way...have I mentioned I really like your color choices?   :P

Vor'e, ba'vod! I tried the cod on with the sash belt today, it's much improved.
Haha, thank you, can't imagine why, but I really love your paint scheme too!  ;)

Following with interest :)

Btw, I think the new cod looks nice!

Thanks and welcome aboard!!

Finished up the gauntlets! I came up with a few different closures I could use, and these were the ones that seemed most plausible:

(http://i.imgur.com/A4QYGya.jpg)

It's pretty simple, hook side of velcro one each side of the gauntlet, and a rectangle of cloth with two more strips of soft side velcro. Not very fancy, but it holds 'em on well!

(http://i.imgur.com/TDrepTb.jpg)

They fit perfectly over my flight suit, they don't move side to side like I was worried about at all. The black strip turned out wider than I was imagining, but it's on the inside of my arms so I'm not concerned. I'm keeping my eyes out for a better pair of gloves too, but these work alright for now.

(http://i.imgur.com/b1TMSRQ.jpg)

And there they are on me! They feel super cool, I'm just itching to be in full kit for the first time! I had my problems with these, but they turned out and I'm really pleased with them! The stick on velcro ripped right back off the painted plastic, and still came off a patch of unpainted plastic, so I gave them some help with more E600, since it worked with the hinges. Just want to add a little more to seal around the edges of the velcro, and I'll be all set!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 05, 2017, 04:24 PM
Okay! It's been a month, but I finally have more progress! (I'm not even necroposting wow I thought it had been a lot longer)

I finally got my soft parts weathered:

(http://i.imgur.com/WICnw5e.jpg)

It was really fun once I got into it! I tried to do some burn damage on everything first, but apparently I keep picking the most fire retardant materials, so I just got some melting marks.... I put most of the flight suit dirt on the legs, and then didn't do hardly anything to the flak vest. I bleached almost everything just a tad, and I think I'm going to hit the flight suit again for a better difference between the flight suit and flak vest.

And right as I'm typing this I remember that I was going to take some thread and make some patches look like they'd been ripped and sewn over again. Ah well. I can do that when/if I bleach the flight suit again.

I got some new gloves too, they're a lot better than the ones I had! And also nearly impossible to do any significant burn damage to, which was disappointing cause I wanted it to look like I'd grabbed something that was on fire. I'll probably take a woodburner to them sometime soon.

(http://i.imgur.com/SRBP8lt.jpg)

There was a logo on the back of the hand, but I managed to melt it until it wasn't recognizable. I'll do some more damage there too once I manage to find the woodburner.

And I finished my beskad! Enlisted the help of a friend with a fully equipped shop. It's made entirely of one piece of plywood, 18 inches long, with scrap leather that I just glued on and is drying.

(http://i.imgur.com/2ETmsqh.jpg)

All I have to do is make a sheathe for it- either just a simple metal ring, or a PVC rectangle that leaves most of the blade exposed.

Also, since the CRLs only require one weapon, I'm moving the blasters to the 'eventual upgrades' list. I'm not really all that excited about them, and I don't really need them. I'd love to make a Rey-esque staff, though, but I'm not sure when that'll happen. For now, I'm just going for the bare bones I need to apply.

Also, my helmet has been ordered and should ship out and arrive this week! I got one of the anklebiters from Dha Bral, and I'm really excited to finally have a bucket!

I added a status update to the first post on this forum, to keep better track of my progress and what I still want to do. But so far all I have left is:
-get more pouches and make a sheathe
-finish work on helmet, pad, visor, and paint
-attach plates to flak vest
-finishing touches on weathering

And then I should be in the clear to apply and can start on upgrades! (Nearly all of my upgrades are some form of weapon ahaha)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Jun 05, 2017, 10:30 PM
Shaping up nicely.  Nice work burning off any logo on those gloves; I never would have suspected they had one.  Keep at it!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jun 06, 2017, 11:39 AM
Those are the same gloves I use for fall yard work including the burn pit, so I'm glad they don't burn well. :laugh: Nice work on the weathering. I just made a couple of pouches for the new sound system so I'll bring the old ones with me on the 17th. Sounds like you've got some good ideas for a sheath. Ever done any leather work?
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 07, 2017, 01:28 AM
Thanks Fork! They look even better after I attacked them with a woodburner.

Oooh score! What kind of pouches are they? I've, uh, dabbled in leatherworking. In middle school, with no tools besides a scissor and high hopes. Somehow I still have all my fingers.

I'd love to do an actual PVC sheath, but I'm booked like the library of Congress right now and am impatient to just be in full kit for the first time. So we'll see, whether my impatience or perfectionism wins out.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 07, 2017, 06:51 AM
That's a tough fight! I have the same one, but impatience is appeased a bit when I try out and measure new pieces...

That's a great looking armor Vode. I just looked through your WIP and found some ideas I could use, so thank you and keep up a great job!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 07, 2017, 09:08 AM
Thanks! Yeah, if I can actually force myself to start the sheath, I'll get excited about it and have to finish it. Happy to be of any help!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Jun 07, 2017, 03:40 PM
Well, get to work on that sheath, then, Vaar'ika!   :P
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 07, 2017, 03:58 PM
Well, I would love to, ba'vod, but LOOK WHAT CAME IN THE MAIL TODAY!

(http://i.imgur.com/0zGCFFe.jpg)

Obviously, I'm dropping everything to work on it. I already sanded down all the ear pieces and had a go at the bottom rim.

And that's where I run into problems. Sanding was the obvious first step, and then I'm going to fill in the arrows with bondo, but I have no idea where to go after that. And how far down to the rim do I sand? There's a pretty sizable lip and I assume it all goes, but I've never so much as held a finished helmet.

(http://i.imgur.com/pcU4Eat.jpg)

Other questions: Do I need to use primer before spraypainting? I haven't used primer on anything else (which I'm hoping won't come back to bite me in the butt) but if anyone thinks the extra step is advisable, for the helmet, I will do it.
Do I paint and then assemble or assemble and then paint? I would assume paint, cut out the visor and keyslot, and then assemble, but I really want to be sure. My usual technique of 'dive in and then do damage control' isn't going to apply here.

Also, has anybody ever assembled a Dha Bral? I'm not entirely sure how to go about it. The pieces all bolt on, so I guess you drill the hole in the helmet itself, push the screws in, and screw the... circle bit on. (Do I know anything about hardware? Nope. I don't.) Maybe I'll just wait until my clan gathering in ten days.

Final questions- what type of welding visor replacement did you say people typically use, Havelock? I know it's back in the forum someplace, was it #5? And what's my best bet to glue the keyslot and visor in? And what do folks use for padding?
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Kryamla Redalur on Jun 07, 2017, 05:56 PM
Sand it down to the lip on the helmet, you want it to be smooth.

I would recommend primer :)

For painting, it depends on what you want to do for each piece. I have a M5 helmet from Dha and I trimmed out the key slot hole first, but painted all of the pieces (actual key slot, ear caps, range finder,etc) separately since they were going to be a different color than the main color of my helmet. Also, don't forget to trim the visor too! If you're nervous about it weakening, leave a little bar at the bottom to help with stability.

You'll need to drill out a hole for the ear caps to go into but it wasn't hard. Just find the right size :)

For a visor, I use one from t-visor.com but others use a wielded visor from harbor frieght or Home Depot or something, and then get window tint.

Hope that helps!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 07, 2017, 06:04 PM
That helps a ton, thanks!  ;D That should keep me busy for a while. Do you remember what you used to glue in the keyslot and attach the rangefinder?
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jun 07, 2017, 07:38 PM
I'll never forget the day my first buy'ce came in the mail. First off, if you don't own a Dremel now's the time to get one.

1. The very first thing you'll want to do is wash everything with warm soap and water. Makers commonly use a releasing agent when casting parts to help the parts come out of the mold easier (protects the mold). That will not hold paint any easier than it held the mold. Sanding will remove it to some degree, but will also contaminate your sand paper.

2. Yes, take that rough bottom off (remember the part about a Dremel? ;)). You may want to wait on cutting out the T-visor. Looks like you have some work to do (Bondo, sanding) and that will add strength to the helmet until you're almost done. My helmet was cast in a way that I could leave some of the curled over area on the bottom lip that I use for a locator to hold my visor in place. Not sure about yours. My favorite clean-up tool is a bastard file for rough stuff and a single cut mill file for finish work.

3. Once you're done priming and sanding (outside only) you can cut out the T-visor. Keep the bits you cut out because I've got a little trick for bracing the lower part of the T area. Cut off a 1/2 - 3/4" wide piece that's long enough to go from side to side behind where you'll mount the visor. You may need to cut some spacers to get the depth right. Anything you attach with adhesive should be done with a 2-part epoxy; ear pieces, spacers, whatever. Always think 2-part epoxy when sticking things together (not to include parts with screws like your ear caps(?)). Do yourself a favor and don't try to clean up the wavy bit inside the T visor area for a clean fit of the visor. Gaps will allow air to move around the visor (ventilation for fog-free trooping) and they really aren't very noticeable even when you know they're there.

4. Once your bracing is installed, paint the inside of the helmet with two coats of flat black. I can't stress how important it is to wait until everything's dry before the next coat of paint. Use painters tape to mask the inside of the helmet and shoot at least two coats of silver (I used aluminum) paint on the outside.

5. It's really important to get a real shade 5 visor. Most companies only carry shade 3, there is a difference: you will never see my nose or any other feature no matter how bright the sunlight or photographic flash. ;) There are a lot of people who sell "shade 5" (note the quotes), however, they can only be found (reliably) at your local weld shop for about $20 - $25.

Sorry I got a bit wordy, I'd hate to see this go wrong for you. Two things though: 1. take your time, this is the fun part. 2. Almost anything can be repaired... but warping, never leave your buy'ce anywhere hot (car, sun room... oven :P :laugh:).
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 07, 2017, 10:00 PM
Yo, don't be sorry! The more advice I get the happier I am! Definitely wouldn't have thought to wash it without you telling me. And I would definitely be not thinking about it and leaving it in the car. 2-part epoxy and a shade 5 visor are on the shopping list for tomorrow.

I can't quite picture what you're saying about bracing the T-visor. Can you take a picture of the inside of your helmet?

I spent the evening trimming down the rim and otherwise cleaning up the helmet- it's washed (multiple times), sanded, the arrows have been bondo-ed. All ear pieces are also washed and sanded, and then I couldn't resist getting at least one side with primer tonight.

(http://i.imgur.com/x0q100n.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/cX0BpNZ.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/x9sqLwu.jpg)

If everything's looking okay, I think I can at least get primer done tomorrow! Was there anything but the arrows I would need to bondo?

So if I understand this right, now that I've washed, sanded, and bondo-ed the whole thing, next I prime it, then I cut out the key slot, visor, and drill bolt holes? And then I can paint everything, and then assemble ears, visor, and padding?
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Kryamla Redalur on Jun 08, 2017, 09:26 AM
That helps a ton, thanks!  ;D That should keep me busy for a while. Do you remember what you used to glue in the keyslot and attach the rangefinder?

I used a 2 part epoxy that I had laying around. It was a quick setting one. Sorry don't remember the name of the brand :/
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jun 08, 2017, 12:19 PM
O.K., now that Photobucket has decided to cooperate I can walk you through this a little. You'll see at the top of the picture where I epoxied a piece of the resin I had cut out across the bottom of the helmet. You can see the visor is held in place by that at the bottom (top in this photo), and located (held in correct orientation) by two little tabs that were part of the casting at the bottom (top) of the T-visor bump out. The piece of resin I used came from the ear piece cut out. the visor is held in place on each side at the top (Bottom in photo) by two small tabs (one is circled in red) made by stacking two more pieces of recycled resin then epoxying them in.

This arrangement does two things: 1. My visor isn't glued in so I can pull it out to work inside helmet, clean the visor or change it out for a different one. 2. Remember where I said "fog free trooping"? Not being glued in on all sides this allows air to circulate freely around the visor on all sides so the slightest breeze keeps it clear. Another, and perhaps main, thing it does is gives excellent strength and support to the helmet as a whole without using the visor as a structural member.

The visor doesn't have to be pushed up too tight to the bump out, this gives space for it to slide it in and out. You'll need to have the visor sized and ready to install before getting the tabs and braces in since they're based on the size and thickness of the visor. Make a pattern out of poster board or something thicker like a cereal box.

This is a good teaching moment too. See how the main support epoxy joints look like a bad weld as opposed to the nicely installed side tabs? I tried to do all of these joints at once and the epoxy started to set up on me. As epoxy dries it loses bonding strength at an exponential rate and doesn't go on smoothly. I had to repair that brace later, but it's held really well since. So don't try to do too much at once when working with epoxy. I'm currently using Gorilla brand epoxy, but there are several good one out there. Look for "use on most plastics" on the label.

(http://i1294.photobucket.com/albums/b617/Shammahmando/Buyce%20reinforcement_zpsjh5nno89.jpg)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 08, 2017, 04:29 PM
Oooh, cool, thanks! That looks like a great method, I've been getting nervous about how exactly to put the visor in.
... I think I'm gonna wait until the seventeenth to mess with the visor. I really don't want to mess this up. Speaking of which, I can't find welding visors ANYWHERE. I've found these tiny plastic squares for welding helmets, but a large face shield? Nope. I checked everywhere. Can you get them easily around Des Moines? If it's not inconvenient, could you get one and I'll pay you back, maybe?

At what point do I cut out the visor and keyslot and drill the holes for the ear pieces? Does it really matter if I do that before or after primer?
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Clank2002 on Jun 08, 2017, 04:41 PM
Hey I saw you're post and thought I'd help! If you want the visor to be specifically a welding visor then I can't help you. BUT! What I am doing is a gold tinted visor like a one way mirror so I am going to a window tinting store. My dad says that they will either sell scraps OR JUST GIVE THEM OUT!!! They generally sell back tinted stuff so if you want a relatively inexpensive visor... There you go. Just ask Siri for places with window tint. Ok cool keep up the good work I love the armor that you're building 
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 08, 2017, 05:19 PM
I've been so happy about my recent progres on my bucket, so I know how you feel.
I did go with an exchangable visor as well. I believe it's a good way to go.

As for epoxy, I did more on my armor than on buyce, but I keep doing small piece, by small piece. You'll get some experience on how to mix it, how to apply, when not to apply (I suggest read the instruction. I've tried once, while it was too cold for them. I'm still trying to fix that now. :) ).
At this point I even make small pieces of the armor with reinforced epoxy and it seems to work.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jun 08, 2017, 06:26 PM
Do all epoxy work before any paint or primer, that way your resin is stuck to resin. Painted surfaces will not give as strong of a bond. So basically cut out and attach everything before paint and primer, but do the T-visor last. If you got primer on the attaching surface of your ear pieces you may want to sand that area off.

I PM'd you some info, if that doesn't work out let me know and I'll pick one up for you. The more you want to wait for on the 17th the more help I can be. Do you have files and a Dremel type tool?
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 09, 2017, 09:26 AM
Thanks for the tip, Clank!  :) My one concern is that window glass sounds a lot harder to work with.

Careful with the epoxy, got it. At this rate I think I'm just going to attach what ears I can and then just leave the rest for when I can get clan help. I did get excited and base coat paint some ear parts, guess I better sand a couple areas of that back down. I don't have any files, and the Dremel I'm using was borrowed from a neighbor. I could probably bring it, it's just that it's not actually mine.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Clank2002 on Jun 09, 2017, 11:47 AM
No No No No No! Window TINT. Not tinted window. I went to some really nice people and they gave me 12''-12'' cut of scraps for free! I am only 14 so I don't have a lot of money on my hands so I'm just doing that. But if you want to be an over achiever then attach some clear plastic.. ya know just watch this. http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=68927.0 I hope this helps.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: jett drexel on Jun 09, 2017, 01:44 PM
jewellers files $5.00 tops per set on e-bay. find the right vendor and shipping is free. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 09, 2017, 03:23 PM
Ohhh, I see! Thanks for the tip! I found a welding visor, but since I'm putting it in Shammah's way, I can put a mirrored tint visor on the upgrades list.  ;D

Woah, five bucks? Sounds pretty good, thanks Jett  :)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Jun 12, 2017, 09:03 PM
There's nothing I can really add to the great advice you've already gotten, Vaar'ika.  I'm glad to see that you're so excited.  I was thrilled when I got my bucket...but really worried that I'd do something wrong and screw the whole thing up.  Took me a couple of months to actually work on it because of that.  I was being stupid - and I knew I was being stupid.   :laugh:

Matter of fact, when I went to cut the welding visor and install it....it turned out I'd cut the thing too small - by a couple of millimeters.  I, very quietly, flipped out.  Bugged the crap out of Bowfanny to make sure I hadn't screwed myself completely.

The main thing I learned, throughout the whole process of my build, but most particularly working on my bucket, is that the material I was working with was very forgiving.  And that if I made a mistake, I could turn it into "battle damage."  So in the end, it was no big deal.

So just do your work on it, be as detail-oriented as you like, and if you make an oops, don't sweat it.  Turn it into battle scars, or bondo over it.  You've already shown you've got some great skills, and I have no doubts that you'll make your entire kit completely bad-shebs from bucket to boots.  Your kit is already pretty freaking awesome.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 13, 2017, 06:14 AM
I must concur with what Havelock said - the thing that stopped me most from progresing was overthinking on how to do things instead of just doing them. I'd probably do second kit in fourth of the time I used for this one.

And in the end, it turnes out, my first ideas were the best ones, and I go back to them to finish my kit.

Also, I tend to have more spare parts than I destroyed in creation proces.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 14, 2017, 03:54 PM
Thanks ba'vod, your advice and vote of confidence means a lot to me.  ;D I'll try to take you and Ogre's advice and do a little bit of work on my helmet today so there's not so much to do at the clan meeting.

Speaking of just going for it, today I worked on boots! I have this pair of old combat boots that I absolutely loved, but had laces. I prefer a laceless boot over a laced boot with plates, but I thought that was just going to be an eventual upgrade. Today, the bug hit me to mod my old boots into a laceless version! I was too excited to take any before pictures, but here's the finished product:

(http://i.imgur.com/wLyMHkP.jpg)

These things had two zippers, laces, and that strap on the arch there, so I had to cover the laces and the outside zipper. I cut out the tongue and ended up using a staple gun to attach it over the lace holes and the outer zipper. Not professional, but hey! if it works! I don't think the result of the staples is half bad. Only half the tongue is stapled, the lower half is held in place by the strap.

(http://i.imgur.com/DoNU398.jpg)

Side views, inner and outer. You can see on the outer shot on the right a couple of the places I had to cover up brand names and logos. These boots were COVERED in branding, it was ridiculous. I had to rip out a little plastic figurine that was on that circle there, and there were two spots on each boot with the name branded into the leather. With some sandpaper, an exacto knife, and a heat gun, I think I managed to turn them into only slightly suspicious looking weathering. I took out the brand on the tread too, even though that probably wasn't necessary. I have a habit of putting my feet up on every available surface.

(http://i.imgur.com/OSwjFYl.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/DKtWadU.jpg)

I'm pretty excited about these. I don't see any reason they wouldn't follow CRLs now, and I think they look pretty freakin awesome. I'm gonna get new insoles for them, though. And probably cover the ends of the staples with a small smear of hot glue, even though they're hammered down flat.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Jun 14, 2017, 03:59 PM
Those boots look awesome!  Great job, Vaar'ika!  I think those will definitely pass muster.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jun 14, 2017, 07:00 PM
I'm impressed with your level of modification, no one will ever be able to say, "I have a pair just like those." :laugh:
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Jun 14, 2017, 10:32 PM
Boots look great.  As long as they aren't poking you then I'd say leave the staples be.  To be completely honest, if things look too "professional" they end up not looking Mando IMO.  Slightly irregularities, random (but plausible) wear all make a kit pop.  You're on the right path.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 15, 2017, 12:53 AM
Thanks, guys! I did end up hot gluing over the staples cause they snagged on my socks when I took the boots off, and I got some insoles, so they're way comfier and fit better now too. I might do a little more weathering so it isn't obvious that I was trying to cut off brand names.

I got my ears almost completely attached tonight! They're still 100% removable in case I need to take them off for painting or something. Some epoxy is still setting up and I'll be set! Kryamla helped me out a ton with some shots of her finished version. It was nervewracking, but it's done and I'm super happy!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 15, 2017, 07:20 AM
I bow in respect for your ideas with those shoes. I'm going similar way - covering the laces in boots I feel comfortable with, and... How to put it... Expendable. :D

Your weathering looks good. What I'm doing in that cases, I imagine what happened and what kind of damage would it cause. If you put cutmarks where brandnames were, it might apear too regular. Bu if you imagine where did that shrapnel exploded, and how the shoes saved your legs, you get where to put more, and where to ease out. Or the marking of the creature that tried to chew your foot away...

Have fun with coming up what tha hell hapened there!
I'll be glad to hear that battle story! ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 15, 2017, 09:52 AM
Oooh, you gave me a great idea. I wasn't too sure about the pattern of cuts over the brand names, but if I add a few more spots like that in the right area, it could totally look like something tried to chew my foot off. I should probably go back with some sandpaper and scuff up the paint on my plates to look like more natural weathering- Akaleh takes a lot of ops that don't necessarily require combat, so I need to look like I waded through thorny bushes, rolled down a hill, got caught in a sandstorm, stuff like that. I think sandpaper would emulate all of that damage nicely with a rough enough grit.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 15, 2017, 10:01 AM
 8)

Glad to help.

One thing I love about aluminium armor I make, is that if I want to weather it, I can just... Do it.
Just today, I've been running sharp edged metal through my shnees, where sword-cuts could be. Looks better, than any other weathering technique I did so far! :D

But the same can go with leather. Just remember not to go too far! :)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 15, 2017, 10:37 AM
Heh, that's close to what I did for my plate weathering. Just take a knife and cut off the top layer of paint. Being able to damage the actual plates themselves though... Metal armor is where it's at.

My helmet's ears are all installed! I keep looking at it like 'do I actually own a Mandalorian helmet? I do. I own that. It's mine.' It's a good feeling. So now I just need the visor and keyplate installed, and I'll be ready to paint it! Then padding, and it'll finally be wearable! I'm already fantasizing about a voice changer.

I'm redoing the closures on my gauntlets too, I'll post some pictures here once the final version has been decided on.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Kryamla Redalur on Jun 15, 2017, 04:04 PM
Glad I could help ya vod :)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Jun 15, 2017, 07:29 PM
For what it's worth, I'd suggest painting before you install the visor.  If nothing else, it's less taping that you have to do.  :)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 15, 2017, 10:16 PM
Advice taken, ba'vod.  ;D I'm installing it with the help of Shammah, who has a trick that makes the visor completely removable, so we can install and then I can take it back out and paint the whole thing no worries.  :)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 16, 2017, 11:24 PM
Okay, update on the gauntlets: I do believe these are the finals, or at least very, very close. Havelock's been helping me a ton, and I just need to make sure these are approvable.  :D

(http://i.imgur.com/j8EDR5I.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/eo273i2.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/pwyk8c2.jpg)

Ripped out the velcro and drilled some holes. I had one take with simple leather ties, but they weren't very swarzy and to be honest the quality was not my best, so now it's leather strips and snaps! I'm happy with them, I think the quality is good, and I like the look, so now I just hope the App Team agrees.  :)

The strips are a bit fuzzy right now but that'll be easily fixed with a few seconds with a heat gun. The final shot shows where I'm going to glue and trim them if I get the go ahead, after fixing the paint job. The glue even came off clean with a little elbow grease!  ;D
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Jun 18, 2017, 01:13 PM
For what it's worth, I think those look much better.  Once you get it repainted, and if you can even up the cuts on the leather - 'cause it's looking just a little ragged  :P - you might just be good to go!   ;D

So....what else you got?  I want to see more.   :laugh:
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 18, 2017, 02:12 PM
I'll clean it up and make it look all pretty once I know the App Team approves! Didn't want to get too attached and then have to go with something else again  :laugh:

Patience, ba'vod!  :laugh: But I've got a good start on my knife holster, Shammah gave me some really nice pouches yesterday, I got a start on attaching my plates, and the helmet is coming along so there'll be a nice big photo dump pretty soon.  ;D
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 18, 2017, 02:40 PM
Waiting... Still waiting for that big update! ;)

Holsters... I knew I there was something I've forgotten. Thanx for reminding! ;]
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 20, 2017, 11:54 PM
So....what else you got?  I want to see more.   :laugh:

Waiting... Still waiting for that big update! ;)

Holsters... I knew I there was something I've forgotten. Thanx for reminding! ;]

Okay, well here you guys go! I spent literally all day on beskar, and everything is done but attaching my plates and finishing my helmet!

First off, the best bathroom selfie I've ever taken:  :P

(http://i.imgur.com/QPIO6o7.jpg)

It doesn't look like a lot of progress, but the helmet is slowly getting closer and closer to finished! I got the visor cut out today, as well as finishing epoxying the magnets in the ears. Also smoothed down the inside of the T. (Totally forgot to attach the rangefinder for this pic I was so excited to be seeing the world through shade five lol) I still need to put in spacers to hold the visor, and reinforce the lower bridge. Hopefully after that I can finally paint it? Shammah's been directing me through this, thanks man.  ;D

And here are pics of almost everything else I've been up to! I redid the sash to be much easier to put on, now it's more than half as long and twice as thick, and attaches with overall strap button thingies instead of tying. My holster is finished and I have Shammah's wonderful pouches! (And a stack of Merc/Vhett Manda business cards!  ;D) First pics of me in my new boots and gloves, and I finished up the gauntlets! Plus a doorag or however you spell that, cause I can't do a ponytail in my helmet, and I gotta keep my hair out of my face somehow. Thinking about embroidering a mythosaur skull on that.

(http://i.imgur.com/opb9SuU.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/vm6z29u.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/P0chdm3.jpg)

Better shot of the finished holster and cool pouches:

(http://i.imgur.com/Xbv83Y7.jpg)

And of my gauntlets. They didn't turn out like I intended, but I think they're still okay. I got black dye and told myself I could just soak the leather for a couple seconds and make it darker brown. It does not work that way. I had ebony leather. I managed to wash 'em out a little though.
Also, fixing up the paint where the velcro was did not turn out being as easy as I thought. You can still tell if you're looking for it. I'm hoping it passes for 'plausible in universe defect' and not 'really should've resanded that spot before painting again.' At least, I think that's what did it? But it's right along the tape-off line, so it can't be sanding... I dunno. But they're done. I'm probably worrying about that line too much, bet nobody but me will ever notice.

(http://i.imgur.com/N88ketE.jpg)

And finally, I painted my kit box! It took way more spraypaint than I thought it would, and copious amounts of sealer. But I'm extremely pleased with it.  ;D I made a stencil for the Vhett Manda version of the mythosaur skull, and already had a mythosaur stencil that I freehanded a while ago to make a sweater.

(http://i.imgur.com/sU7jp1i.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Vd8npEw.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/hCY1aAp.jpg)

I totally forgot to spray one of the handles gold, but hey, the box doesn't need to get approved and was just for fun, so I'm not going to bother with it.

And in the evening, Ivy came over and we got a start on her kit! She was eager to dig right into the blasters, we even bought a bastard file. Yep, I went through this whole kit with nothin but sandpaper and a sanding dremel bit. I do believe we said something at the clan meeting about what we think about 'doing things the easy way'. As in, we don't.  :laugh:

We got some stuff at Walmart too (including an airfresher for my kit box cause the paint stench is horrid) and then we started on Ivy's gauntlets! I hate to admit it, but I got the angle wrong on them and the first one is a little loose around the wrists and won't even go all the way around the thick part of her forearm.  :-[ And they don't sell the toilet brush covers we got anywhere in our town. But I'll post a link to her WIP forum here when she gets it up!

Oya, vode! I'm so close!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 21, 2017, 03:21 AM
Way to go! I'm so glad you're pushing... Actually bashing forward!

The box is amazing! You should start making them for profit! ;)

I melted in love with your blade and holster.

Also not enough pics of bucket! ;) The way it looks now I'd say you forgot to paint ears, but the rest looks like you just headbutt through the wall. And it was just his fault for standing in your way! Badshebs!

Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Dragon Sunkiller on Jun 21, 2017, 06:47 AM
Kandosii, ner vod'ika! Just that part of the kit in your side shot says, "make my day, punk!" Lol! Keep up the great work!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Jun 21, 2017, 09:06 AM
I do believe we said something at the clan meeting about what we think about 'doing things the easy way'. As in, we don't.  :laugh:

Ain't that the truth.

You're getting closer.  And things are looking awesome.  Once you get your full kit together I highly recommend posting pics in the VMC preapp thread here (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=110126.0) so that app team members can weigh on and make the app process significantly smoother.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 21, 2017, 09:34 AM
Way to go! I'm so glad you're pushing... Actually bashing forward!

The box is amazing! You should start making them for profit! ;)

I melted in love with your blade and holster.

Also not enough pics of bucket! ;) The way it looks now I'd say you forgot to paint ears, but the rest looks like you just headbutt through the wall. And it was just his fault for standing in your way! Badshebs!


Ahaha, thanks so much! Your comments made me laugh!

I would consider painting kit boxes for other people, but really most of that's easy, the only part I consider something I'm uniquely good at would be making the stencils. And if people wanted me to make stencils, I absolutely could.  ;D Maybe once my kit is done I could gauge interest in custom stencils? I don't think anyone's done that yet.

The helmet looks like that cause I shot the ears with primer prematurely, cause I just HAD to paint SOMETHING on my helmet.  :laugh: But yeah, it totally does look like they're the only thing unpainted, that's pretty funny.  :P

Kandosii, ner vod'ika! Just that part of the kit in your side shot says, "make my day, punk!" Lol! Keep up the great work!

Thanks, vod! Just need you to help me attach those plates! (nudge nudge wink wink)


You're getting closer.  And things are looking awesome.  Once you get your full kit together I highly recommend posting pics in the VMC preapp thread here (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=110126.0) so that app team members can weigh on and make the app process significantly smoother.

Thanks, Fork! I absolutely plan on heading over there shortly! I'm shooting for starting the app process in the first half of July, but we'll see how much trouble the rest of my helmet and the plates give me. Hopefully not four week's worth of trouble.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jun 21, 2017, 10:58 AM
Getting closer all the time. Helmet has come out great. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Havelock on Jun 21, 2017, 02:43 PM
*enthusiastic applause*
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Anansi on Jun 21, 2017, 06:29 PM
Really digging that blade and those pouches!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 24, 2017, 09:20 PM
Small update! I added a strap/button/lace thing on the holster, cause I don't trust seven year olds not to pull it out and stab me with my own blade. And boy, would that be embarrassing. Eventually I'll switch it out with a leather strap and a button/snap, but right now I think a button knot will serve it's purpose just fine. Plus a shot of the back of the holster, because probably no one will ever see it, but I really like it.

(http://i.imgur.com/QCYht5l.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Cd1RboT.jpg)

Making some progress on the plates! The torso snaps are all attached, and I think I got everything major, but I still might need some small adjustments. This is just on the mannequin, I can get a pic of it on me with my flight suit if that's needed. No keyplate yet, because that'll be easy to do once everything else is right, and it and the shoulder plates are attached with just velcro. (I might put a snap on the shoulder bells, though, make them a little harder to tear off.)

(http://i.imgur.com/9vb7Fj4.jpg)

Got a few questions about these. The ab plate ends exactly at the edge of the flak vest. There's about an inch of hem I could easily let down if I need to, but Dragon said it would probably be better to either trim the ab plate or just leave it as is, since the belts are worn over the plates and flak vest. Now, I was under the impression that your belts and flak vest couldn't overlap. Obviously, I trust the OM more than my own preconceived notions. But I trust multiple OMs more!  :laugh: Y'all wear your belts over your flak vest?

Second question: do I need to trim the chest plates? They pretty much line up with the collar plate, but then they do a funky little curve. Aesthetically, should I cut that curve to a straight line or leave it? Or does it not matter? This would also fix that little nick in the plate on the right, from a slip-up when I was narrowing the plates down.

Currently the glue is drying on the back plates, and I'll probably get those snaps on tomorrow. Turns out epoxy does not bond to trash can armor, but E600 will.

Some progress on the helmet: I've cut out the bolts on the inside, filled some bolt holes in the rangefinder piece with bondo, and reattached a magnet for like the third time. I'm hoping to get the spacers for the visor in very very soon, and then hopefully paint it! After that, just some padding, and I'll be all set! Thank goodness too, cause another event popped up that I want to go to, in late July. I'm optimistic about my chances!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 25, 2017, 03:39 AM
You're working your chances up yourself!

The sheathe is great. And I believe it's a great idea for a costiume (the one about protecting from being stabbed with your own weapon. I had this once for real in my life, and it's one of them ost embarassing stories in my life... ;)

As for plates, I've played "find the difference" game ;)
I believe, if you put collar straight, the rest should fall in place.
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w438/McOgre/9vb7Fj4_zpsyvrq04qu.jpg) (http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/McOgre/media/9vb7Fj4_zpsyvrq04qu.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 25, 2017, 10:08 AM
Ooh, I see. I think those are actually trimming issues. When I straighten out the collar plate as it is now so the tabs match up with the vest seam line, it's horribly skewed. Plus my seam lines might be a little crooked  :P But in any case, replacing snaps won't fix the collar plate.  With the chest pieces, I think that's trimming too. I think I'm definitely going to take that curve on the outer edge down to a straight line, and maybe the top edge needs just a liiitttle fixing too.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jun 25, 2017, 03:43 PM
First question: the vest is either short and bottom of the ab plate is right at the bottom (such as yours) in which case the vest floats over the girth or, like mine, cut long and designed to be tucked into the girth belt. I did that because of the way my girth/kidney plate attaches to the vest in back.

Second question: I like the thumb width between plates rule because that automatically scales the width of the gap to the width of the wearer. You're small and so is your thumb width, so that gap will work for you. A bigger person will likewise have a bigger thumb and that gap will look right on them. Increasing the gap will give you room to fix any inconsistencies on the edges of your plates, Ogre pointed out some good ones. Think I'd trim the outside edges of the chest plates (following the existing lines) and move them out a little (outside needed to be trimmed a little anyhow). Trim the tops of them just enough to fix the bit over the diamond (your right plate). Then move the collar up, if needed, to get the spacing correct. may not need to once the chest plates are trimmed because this will shorten them up a little. Keep in mind that even spacing between plates is more important than gap width, so a little more or less than thumb width is fine.

The good thing about sew-on buttons is you can really fine tune placement. Once they're right you'll want to add velcro to get the float out of everything and hold plates in place.

Kit is really coming along, great to see how well you're doing. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 28, 2017, 09:34 AM
Thanks, Shammah.  ;D I think I got the spacing on the front plates figured out (about 3/4ths of my thumb) and I was going to put in on with my flight suit so I could ask about the backplate, but I ran into another question (or two).

(http://i.imgur.com/vHtFiwh.jpg)

Chestplates have been trimmed, I think the spacing is ok, and I straightened out the collar plate. This picture's a little wonky cause I forgot to velcro the side of the flak vest shut and the mannequin is starting to lean so I had to hold it up, but that aside, there's some considerable gap between the collar plate and the top of the flak vest. Multiple people have told me the back plate and collar plate don't have to touch, but I went through the 2017 new OM thread and the collar plate comes all the way to the top of the flak vest on every single one of them.

I'm really hoping that's just coincidence and not something the App Team will knock me for, cause the trash cans I've been using just won't bend that far, so cutting a new collar plate wouldn't really fix it. (And I'd much rather cut a new collar plate than move everything up... Kinda starting to hate snaps...) I guess there's making two plates as collar plate extensions but I just hate how that looks.

Second question! Shoulder bells look too big? I don't think they're too bad, but I could easily knock em down a bit, and that could look better.

Thirdly, I did trim down the corner tabs of the back plate. You can see them really clearly in that picture, but it's not bad on me with the flight suit, and I'm hoping velcro fill fix any remaining issue.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jun 28, 2017, 10:18 AM
Spacing is much better. Look at the gap between the chest and collar, and chest and ab which is good. Then look at the tighter spacing between the two chest pieces in the diamond area. Think you could either move the chest pieces out which would mean another outer trim and snap re-adjustment, or just trim around the diamond area - the whole inside from where the two chest pieces meet at top to where they meet at bottom, and no snap re-adjustment (depending on where they're placed). It won't take much, just a sliver off of the inside of each in that top area (don't touch the fangs - lower part).

As for the collar plate, it's fine. What many do is bend the back plate tabs over to get a similar gap, as in the torso plates, between back plate tabs and collar tabs, i.e. my back plate tabs cover the shoulder seams on my vest.

Shoulder bells can be a little off scale as long as they aren't too crazy, and IMHO they're good too. Just tell the app team you have a phobia of being shot in the upper arms (ballistophobia). :laugh:

I can't really comment on your back plate; didn't get to see it at the armor party so don't really know how it looks. The tabs should come down and stay with a little velcro (purpose of using the stuff is taking out float). It'll likely be fine too as long as you have one that fits.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 28, 2017, 10:51 AM
I got to believe you on the fact it looks the way it should on you, and something goes off on a dummy.
I tried to do stuff on dummy myself, and quickly trashed it... It was too fat to my liking! ;)

Anyway, I grew a habit of asking App Team member in case of doubt. And I had loads of doubt myself... For me, Kriss Jasra became favorite victim ;) and she was off the scale helpfull. But I sincerily believe other app team members would help as well.

Size of the shoulder bells, is personal issue as long as you don't go off limits. For me, it just should go with general outlook of your beskar. If you feel it's too big... Just cut it.

What keeps bothering me in this suit is the length and collar.
Length - because I was looking t other suits with you on mind, and I see that most people have vests longer than plates. So that'd be the first thing I'd ask App team. I can't help you with that, cause I simply don't know.
Collar and backplates... I believe mine needs to overlap (that's why I came up with pauldron idea to cever the fact it doesn't ;) ), but since my armor has diferent rules (legacy) whatever works for me, doesn't necesariily apply in your case. I'd give App Team Member a PM about that as well.

Sorry I'm not that helpfull this time.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 28, 2017, 06:01 PM
Thanks for all the help, guys! I'm glad the collar plate is ok, should've asked the App Team member I found to ask about the flak vest about that too while I was there. Oh well. He said that it's preferred to have some flak vest under your ab plate, but they've approved people with their ab plate like I've got it now. I could either trim the plate or let down the hem from the flak vest a little, but I'm not going to bother just yet.

I did trim down the shoulder bells a little bit, and got a sliver off the upper bit of the keyplate area. Got the snaps for the other two backplate segments, had my mom take a picture... Realized they're a little crooked. Darnit. Guess I'm not done with snaps after all.

Spacers are in the helmet, though, just waiting for the glue to dry and then I can finally paint it tomorrow!  ;D

EDIT: The plate problem was caused by an extra half inch on the right side of the top two plates. I also discovered that my vest is wider on the right side than the left, so it would actually look weird if the plates were centered on my spine. Apparently I have a thing for erring with too much space on the right when I'm doing custom patterns!  :P Anyways, the excess on the plates is trimmed and I'm going to compensate for the vest by putting them a little off-center, and I should be golden.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jun 29, 2017, 04:39 AM
Dang! You go like nothing can stop you!

I'm stuck with preparations for family holidays, so my armor is packed and waiting. I hoped I could keep up with you, but gal, you just float through that proces. :D
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 29, 2017, 11:52 PM
Haha, thanks! The two events coming up that I want to go to have lit a fire under me.  :P

More plate spacing! What I sincerely hope is the final front plates:

(http://i.imgur.com/Rv5uQoj.jpg)

The spacing is about two thirds of my thumb, not my full thumb. If it looks too narrow I can trim around the plates just a tiny bit.  And they do end right at my belly button, but I think the ab plate might look a little long. I was thinking about letting down some hem on the flak vest, but it looks like I might need to trim off the ab plate instead. The shoulder plates are floating a little funky cause there's still no velcro on them, just one snap.

Back plates!

(http://i.imgur.com/jfOUrx8.jpg)

They aren't crooked now, but to compensate for the flak vest, I moved them about an inch to the right of my spine, which looked right on the mannequin. Problem is, I think it looks off on me. I'm going to hem in the extra material in the arm hole. Do you guys think it looks off like this, or should I move them to centered over my spine instead of going off the flak vest?

I'm also going to take up the back of the flak vest there- without the fourth plate, it's just empty space, and it covers like half my sash.

And a side shot for good measure!

(http://i.imgur.com/fzwAXWR.jpg)

My helmet is currently sitting in the garage with the third and last coat of silver drying, ready for gold, blue details, and blackwash and sealing tomorrow! Get the visor in that puppy, and I've got some pads coming this week! I'm hoping to be able to do pre-app pics in the first week of July.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jun 30, 2017, 12:29 AM
I desperately want to get out a marker and draw trim lines on those front plates. I'm a little concerned that there's still not enough gap between them and you could use the opportunity to tighten up the edges. All they really need is a little tweaking.

The back plates are definitely listing to the right as they go down. If you need to do some work on the vest, do that before messing with them - you may be able to hem the vest and fix the sloping plate problem at the same time. Maybe hem the left arm hole and see if it pulls everything over?

I like the hemming up/ removing material from the lower back of the vest. Again, think I'd hem the side first becauseit will change how the vest hangs in back. Really wish I'd taken a closer look at that vest at the armor party. Looks like you may need to have some kind of slope down from back to front (as viewed from the side) to get the back of the vest off the girth.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jun 30, 2017, 11:29 PM
Hmm, noted. Glad the front plates are close. I'll mess around in Sai tomorrow and throw up some suggestions for plate trimming.

While I'm going at the vest, I decided to add some snaps, cause right now the side just closes with velcro, and I'd like to make that a little more secure. I wasn't going to mess with it, but if I have to do alterations anyways, might as well. None of that should be too difficult. But that should take care of the slope from the back to the front- you aren't seeing things, I can confirm it's certainly there. I left it in cause when I was planning on a fourth back plate I needed the extra space. I'm resigned to moving the back plates over to center on my spine again... sigh. But it's gonna be so worth it.

In other news, look what I did today!

(http://i.imgur.com/lwKmtkL.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/6IpLOnc.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/6aAlvq6.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/2N61CaX.jpg)

The helmet is fully painted, weathered, and sealed, and I could not be happier with it! At first I was having some serious doubts- the paint was bonding a little funny to the resin despite my sanding and primer, I had several close calls with overspray, when I taped for the blue detailing the masking tape did a little paint damage... But then halfway through blackwash, I realized something.

This is my buy'ce. Exactly as I planned almost eight months ago, coming to life in my hands. My own helmet- and it was shaping up to look pretty freakin' awesome.

I'm still waiting for the pads to come, and I need to find something to use for rangefinder lenses. I'm thinking leftover material from the welding visor. It doesn't even look remotely like you can see through it right now, but I did paint the two lights white and red. It doesn't look like actual lights, but I think they're pretty good.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Jun 30, 2017, 11:59 PM
Helmet looks killer.  Nice work.

You're getting soooooo close.  I agree with Shammah on the plate size/placement and hemming feedback.  It's so hard to figure out how things are going to look until you really get them on.

Don't get discouraged.  We all go through the peaks and valleys of thinking you're there then having to revise.  Truthfully, that revision process never ends.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jul 01, 2017, 05:31 AM
I'm in love with that bucket! ;]

Personalised, weathered but not at the brink of falling apart. Really dig it!

So many wiser than me have already adviced you on snaps and trimming that I'm just gonna sit back and watch in awe how you become OMed before I return from holidays!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jul 01, 2017, 10:35 AM
The buy'ce came out great! I know how hard it is to take "feedback" on a kit. These are our children sprung from our minds and created by our hands. It's very difficult for us to take criticism on them. Just know that you're learning and we only have your best interest in mind.  ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 01, 2017, 03:23 PM
Thanks, guys. I can't wait for the pads to come in.  :)

I don't mean to sound frustrated about the plates, I knew it'd be a finicky business, and I'm willing to change anything that needs it. I know that all the little tweaks and alterations is gonna make everything look ten times better. My kit isn't the most complicated or intricate, but I want what I've got to look as good as it can.

But moving snaps is still kriffin' painstaking!  :P
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Jul 01, 2017, 03:31 PM
But moving snaps is still kriffin' painstaking!  :P

Preach
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 01, 2017, 07:42 PM
 :laugh:

Okay, I haven't altered the flak vest yet, but that won't change anything in the front, so here's what I came up for possible plate trimming:

(http://i.imgur.com/ASIRNTP.jpg)

Flak vest outlined in white cause it's a little hard to see against the black flight suit. I tried to bleach it lighter once, but I guess I wasn't aggressive enough. Do you guys think it's worth it to try and bleach it out again? I'm scared it either won't do anything noticeable, or I'll end up with weirdly mottled white/gray/black.

Anyways, is this close to what you were thinking, Shammah? Some of the snaps are set pretty close to the edges, but it doesn't look like I need to trim very much.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Kryamla Redalur on Jul 01, 2017, 09:58 PM
I would try a color remover on the vest instead of using bleach. Bleach runs the rest of looking like tye dye. However, I would try the remover remover on a scrap piece of fabric to test it out (if you have extra fabric that is). I hate for you to ruin the vest if the color remover had a weird reaction.

I've never used color remover but I've read of others using it successfully to lighten fabric.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jul 02, 2017, 04:16 PM
That's the idea on trimming, not as wide as those lines, but those areas. Don't forget the two areas where the chest plates meet at the diamond.

As for bleach, full strength it will actually eat the fabric (which you will only realize after you wash it a couple of times). I would weather with lighter colors, then trust to time and washing to give a little more honest look.

Looking good though, keep it up.  ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 03, 2017, 01:07 AM
Ooh, thanks for the ideas on the flight suit, I'll look around and see what I can do. Or maybe just let it go through the wash a few times, since I don't foresee washing my flak vest nearly as often. I'm scared to find out what the washing machine would do to all those snaps.

Here's the updated front plates! Still no velcro, and everything is still just under my actual thumb width, but I think it looks good?

(http://i.imgur.com/RGcwUwU.jpg)

The flak vest has been modified to snap shut as well as velcro at both the side and the collar, hemmed up in the back, and with some extra material added on the right side, which turned out to be my problem with the back, not the arm hole. Once I evened that out, I had my mom put tape down my spine, snapped the plates on, and they all lined up perfectly! No snap moving here! I'll get some pics of it on me with my flight suit and sash later, but I'm very happy with that.

And my finished rangefinder! There's a lens on the other side too, but it wasn't really worth a picture.

(http://i.imgur.com/IXe8I33.jpg)

Padding for the helmet should come tomorrow!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Boxception on Jul 03, 2017, 01:18 AM
Vod your kit is coming along great. Also I'm impressed with how you at taking the feedback.  It's great that you keep hitting the ropes so to speak and finishing up what will be an amazing look.  Don't get frustrated you have made some clear progress.  I'm very impressed.  I will follow closely.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jul 03, 2017, 11:03 AM
That spacing is much better. Take a look at the spacing between the chest plates and the actual diamond. Is there room to trim just a skosh off the plates there?

As for weathering, when light colors get weathered they stain dark. When dark colors stain they get light. Think of salt stains (white) from sweat, pollen (yellow) from the plants you walked through. How about the limestone type rocks you may have been operating in or the last place you sat to take a break? Think hard about where you've been operating. Did you kneel in something, rub against something or crawl through something or splash in a mud puddle that got your pants cuffs? These would all leave distinct shapes and colors to your kit. Apply different colors using several different methods so you mimic reality. I've seen some great kits totally ruined because they used the very same damage and/or weathering uniformly on the whole kit. Real dirt and weathering is completely random. High, or outside edges of armor are rubbed a lot so that's where the silver shows through, but they may also catch all the dirt depending on where they are. The flight suit, vest and boots are the same way. Your cape would likely keep the areas it covers somewhat clean. The swaying action from walking may even polish them a bit, but it would carry the dirt it protected your kit from. Look closely at work clothes and those great boots you did. Natural wear  tells a story of where the items have been and the human eye knows the difference whether the mind picks up on it or not. That is the difference between simply adding damage and great weathering. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 04, 2017, 12:18 AM
Vod your kit is coming along great. Also I'm impressed with how you at taking the feedback.  It's great that you keep hitting the ropes so to speak and finishing up what will be an amazing look.  Don't get frustrated you have made some clear progress.  I'm very impressed.  I will follow closely.

Thanks, vod, means a lot to me.  ;D

Okay! Today was a big day, even though I don't have much to show! I trimmed the  chest plates around the diamond, reweathered the flight suit and flak vest, got the padding in the helmet, and got all the velcro on my vest! So I can officially say... I'm ready to take pre-app pictures! Feels completely surreal.

I finished up really late, so no pics of the flight suit and plates and all that, there isn't a terrible lot to show, but here's the finished helmet interior:

(http://i.imgur.com/CcYz2IF.jpg)

And I am extremely happy to say that the next pictures you guys see from me will be my pre-app and app pics!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Shammah on Jul 04, 2017, 11:43 AM
Very good. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Jul 04, 2017, 12:56 PM
Kind of hard to tell, but do you have any padding in the top/crown of the helmet?  You definitely want at least a thin padding layer in there to diffuse pressure if not.

And I am extremely happy to say that the next pictures you guys see from me will be my pre-app and app pics!

Sweet.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 04, 2017, 08:55 PM
Kind of hard to tell, but do you have any padding in the top/crown of the helmet?  You definitely want at least a thin padding layer in there to diffuse pressure if not.

Nope, there's no pad in the top. I messed around with several different padding positions, and if I put the top in, it holds the helmet up too far and I'm not actually looking through the visor, but more at the corners of the mandibles. Too much padding will hold it up too far as well- the top actually has to be touching my head for me to look through it properly. If I put a pad in there it would have to be very thin indeed.

The whole thing also has a tendency to lean just the tiniest bit to the side, weighed down by the rangefinder. I'm still messing around with padding configurations. These didn't come with any diagrams so I just made my best guess and stuck 'em in with enough velcro to move them around freely. It might take me some time to find the perfect arrangement.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Jul 04, 2017, 10:13 PM
Gotcha.  A balaclava might be enough, then.

As far at the balance thing goes, you can always use small washers to strategically add weight for counter balance.  Some people glue them in and paint over them, but I've seen others hide it in their padding.  If you plan on adding fans to the helmet the placement of your battery pack can work, too.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 05, 2017, 10:57 PM
Nice, thanks for the tips. I got a doorag to hold my hair back, and the rangefinder isn't actually an issue with just that on.

Pre-app is posted! If that goes smoothly, I'll put my official app in, and here's a copy for you guys:

(http://i.imgur.com/cDB4vME.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/9RplcdP.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/09JOqky.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Ju5LdM2.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/az7TJtd.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/861ffY5.jpg)

Wish me luck!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jul 09, 2017, 06:34 AM
I'm out of internet for a week and you're in the doorstep of OM!

Should I take month holidays I'd find you I  your own Star Wars freighter! ;]

Keeping my fingers crossed for you!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 09, 2017, 09:55 AM
 ;D Thanks, vod! Pre-app consensus was that there's a few things I need to get sorted with my plates still, wear the sash over the flak vest, and it would be preferable to get another weapon.

So there's a staff sitting on my bedroom floor now.  ;D Should be ready for pics later today. I just have to weather the leather handles and paracord wrap, and figure out how to make one of the leather grips lie flat.... gr... I've been putting off fixing the plates, needed a little break from those.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 11, 2017, 06:45 PM
Took longer than I thought, but I finished up my staff! It's made of one-inch PVC cut into 20 inch lengths, connectors, and caps. Plus some paint, leather, and paracord. I like it a lot.  ;D The entire thing comes apart for easy transport, and it'll make that eventual upgrade to a spear type weapon a lot easier.  8)

(http://i.imgur.com/XfNyyle.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/NOrG7dA.jpg)

Edit: Fixed up the plates too! Not really enough of a difference to be worth taking pictures, though
Title: Re: Build 1.5 (Pic Heavy)
Post by: Og' Reh on Jul 12, 2017, 01:45 AM
Cool!

When do you plan to apply for OM?
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 12, 2017, 09:14 AM
As soon as I can get another set of pics taken! Shammah has advised waiting until multiple clan members can help, but I work on the day of this month's armor party (and am already traveling across the state multiple times those two weeks) so that might not be until August... So I'm probably going to hand my mom the camera and take about twenty shots each side, heh. But not this week, I'm crazy busy. I'm actually going to a martial arts tournament! I'm the first person in my school to go to a tournament and compete, so I'm practically making school history. No pressure.  :P

So... it could be a few weeks, but Shammah approved my kit for trooping, so I'm not in as big of a rush as I was.  ;D
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Og' Reh on Jul 13, 2017, 02:42 AM
So... it could be a few weeks, but Shammah approved my kit for trooping, so I'm not in as big of a rush as I was.  ;D

One can do that? I didn't know!

Perhaps I can do it here as well...
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Shammah on Jul 13, 2017, 05:05 AM
One can do that? I didn't know!

Perhaps I can do it here as well...
      

It wouldn't be an official troop, but I think the kit looks good enough to start working the bugs out of. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Og' Reh on Jul 27, 2017, 11:18 AM
Oya! How's your kit? Been a while since I was on the forum, and I see no OM in this topic! ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Jul 27, 2017, 04:12 PM
Haha! Soon, soon. I just got the next round of app pictures taken yesterday, so the clan's discussing which ones to use and all that. Buuutt I have first troop pics!! I even took some paint damage to one of my knees lol. Got a couple small things to fix, found some seams that need reinforced, small stuff like that.

Had some fun beforehand!
(http://i.imgur.com/XffPkrp.jpg?1)

(http://i.imgur.com/6SmDObv.jpg?1)

(http://i.imgur.com/M1ccoth.jpg?1)

(http://i.imgur.com/TkcXXDW.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/EwqcZnh.jpg?1)

(http://i.imgur.com/UjSQUqt.jpg)

We were offered food once the actual event started, and who am I to turn down a cookie? But I totally forgot that you can't eat through a helmet and actually knocked the cookie into my visor before I realized this wasn't going to work. We had some fun with it.
(http://i.imgur.com/3IrSWYX.jpg?1)

I am officially Very Short- gonna use this picture for the M5 society once I get OM, lol.
(http://i.imgur.com/XcfTeDs.jpg?1)

I've got a lot of group pictures with kids, but I didn't want to upload many pictures with kids in 'em to general forums. So here's a couple choice shots from lightsaber duels! And a high five, cause that's a pretty good shot, and there was a lot of high fiving.
(http://i.imgur.com/T7wmK7U.jpg)

Showing off our combat prowess:
(http://i.imgur.com/WDisITa.jpg)

I get swarmed:
(http://i.imgur.com/kfyjben.jpg)

I surrender! Have mercy!
(http://i.imgur.com/OXBZHOm.jpg)

They had no mercy
(http://i.imgur.com/P1q5kV3.jpg)

Kids are apparently at their most sociable when trying to hit you with foam noodle lightsabers. Makes perfect sense to me.  :P
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Og' Reh on Jul 28, 2017, 03:21 AM

I am officially Very Short- gonna use this picture for the M5 society once I get OM, lol.
(http://i.imgur.com/XcfTeDs.jpg?1)

LOL! I was thinking about joining that society, but as a Shadower (or as they're called). I'm 6'7" myself, so I might stand a chance! :)

Quote
I surrender! Have mercy!

You lost your head?! (well - apparently that's what was going to happen in few secs). Expect no mercy from them! ;)

Quote
They had no mercy

Right now I'm like wandering which one I should use: "Didn't I tell ya?" or "What did you expect?" ;)

Quote
Kids are apparently at their most sociable when trying to hit you with foam noodle lightsabers. Makes perfect sense to me.  :P

Mine saw my pictures from SDCC with all the Mandos around and... Now I'm making their armors. Just like Kriss predicted - I'll be making their's sooner than mine! ;)

Anyway - I love to see you're getting settled in the Mando community! Can't wait for that kill stripes of yours!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Aug 07, 2017, 11:04 PM
Thanks so much, vod! I just submitted my app, now we wait!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Aug 07, 2017, 11:25 PM
OYA!  K'oyacyi, vod!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Boxception on Aug 08, 2017, 12:31 AM
Thanks so much, vod! I just submitted my app, now we wait!

Good luck Vod. I will await your kill stripes. 
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Og' Reh on Aug 08, 2017, 05:24 AM
Ho ho ho! Can't wait for those!

Good luck! I keep my fingers crossed for you!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Aug 27, 2017, 03:40 PM
Update: just got my second round of pics taken! Sent 'em to Shammah, hopefully they'll be okay and I can email them in and get my stripes! I still have a week left before I'll need to resubmit.

The things I needed to fix/watch out for, directly from the app team email:

- The chest plates are sitting too low. Moving them up will also help 
resolve the ab plate sitting over the top of the girth belt instead of 
behind it.
- The cod plate is a little too high. Moving it and the belts down may 
also help create space in the waist/girth area.
- It looks like your flightsuit sleeves might be poking out from the 
end of the gauntlets. When you suit up, make sure this doesn't happen.

Nothing too major, got it all fixed up with a couple more adjustments like dying the velcro all black and a little paint touch up. The worst part is finding time to actually get the pictures taken!  :P

Once I've got my stripes at last, I'll probably go on hiatus for a little bit for college. I'm going to use my kit to go trick-or-treating with some friends or a cousin, hopefully, so I'm looking forward to some pictures from that.  :laugh: Maybe I'll find some time to write and work on the character backstory... And I'm developing a pipe dream of building an astromech for the clan, but at least not until I graduate!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Boxception on Aug 28, 2017, 01:34 AM
Excellent work continuing with the improvements vod. Your kits is never really done. As I'm finding out. I'll still keep a look out for those stripes!! 
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Aden Banto on Aug 28, 2017, 01:52 AM
Nice work! There isn't a doubt you won't get those kill stripes  ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Aug 28, 2017, 09:14 AM
Thanks vode, I'm just hoping they don't find anything new.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Aug 30, 2017, 04:00 PM
I just got my acceptance letter!! OYA!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Kryamla Redalur on Aug 30, 2017, 04:16 PM
Oya vod! Congrats :)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Aug 30, 2017, 04:18 PM
OYA!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Shammah on Aug 30, 2017, 04:30 PM
Oya vod! You certainly worked for it and it's paid off. ;D
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Anansi on Aug 30, 2017, 04:40 PM
Congrats, vod!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Og' Reh on Aug 31, 2017, 03:59 AM
That's awesome!

I'm so happy for you!

Happy hunting Vod!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Aden Banto on Aug 31, 2017, 11:00 AM
Congrats vod! Welcome to the family  :)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Malakier Vhett on Aug 31, 2017, 03:50 PM
I just got my acceptance letter!! OYA!
OYA!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Aug 31, 2017, 08:54 PM
Thanks so much everybody!!

Here's the final app picture that the clan roster got updated with and all:

(http://i.imgur.com/LD58dgm.jpg)

They gave me a pass on a couple things, such as my spacing looking better when Shammah was taking the picture, and I didn't get my sash belt as even as it should've been (it's not bad in this shot), and I just realized my boots got cut off... But I'm very pleased with the final kit  8)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Boxception on Sep 01, 2017, 01:00 AM
Oya!!! Gratz vod. Look forward to trooping with yah! 
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Feb 09, 2018, 01:15 PM
After a considerable break, I have an update! This morning I got a pair of Bowfanny's 3D printed gauntlets in the mail from Havelock! I'm really excited to start working on them, but I could use any advice you guys have, since I've never worked with anything 3D printed before. So happy I get to retire the 'Mark I' gauntlets  :laugh:

I've got another question- if I wear my kit for too long, I get a really bad pressure headache. My mom and me both can't wear heavy necklaces because that gives us both headaches, so I thought I might just need to alter my flight suit and flak vest at the back of my neck. I asked about it at last month's clan armor party, and they said it could also be the padding in my helmet. I don't actually have a pad in the top because that raises the helmet up too high to see out of. I was wondering if anyone's ever heard of a similar issue.
Really, I need to just wear parts of the kit around and see what exactly gives me a headache, but I'm not exactly thrilled about it.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Havelock on Feb 09, 2018, 01:44 PM
I'm not sure what to suggest about the headache, as that's not something I've experienced or come across.  This is probably a dumb question, but when you're in kit, are you drinking enough water?  Walking around in armor - even if it's lightweight plastic - can lead to dehydration if you're not drinking enough.

As far as the gauntlets themselves, you can sand them smooth.  Takes awhile.  And elbow grease.  Bowfanny uses this stuff:

(http://i.imgur.com/0owJkDl.jpg) (https://imgur.com/0owJkDl)

I haven't used it before, but he has, and says it smooths nicely and bonds well with the plastic.  And if it helps, when it comes to the rocket, I used screws to secure my rocket to my gauntlets.  It's not going anywhere.    :laugh:

I'm glad you like them, Vaar'ika.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Feb 09, 2018, 01:57 PM
I've been trying to figure out what might be causing your headaches, too.  I got nothing.  I'll ask around to a few folks and see if they any thoughts.

Lots of folks swear by XTC-3D (https://www.amazon.com/XTC-3D-High-Performance-Print-Coating/dp/B00PFXK4JY) from Smooth-On for smoothing 3D prints.  No experience with it myself, but I've heard it's awesome stuff from very reputable people.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Kryamla Redalur on Feb 09, 2018, 03:11 PM
I would consult with a doctor about your headaches and let him/her know that it’s likely from something on your kit ; perhaps show them pictures of you in the kit. If you can’t wear necklaces, it may be your collar or something like that. But like I said, a doctor would likely be your best bet.

3D printed stuff is great but does require some work to make them approvable. I usually use bondo spot putty and slather that one whatever I’m working with then sand once dry. Typically have to do this a few times before it’s good and smooth. Make sure to do it in an open place and maybe even wear a respirator mask because that spot putty stuff stinks and sometimes gives me a headache.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Ruus bal'Neta on Feb 09, 2018, 05:01 PM
Spot putty and filler primer and you should be good to go with the 3D gauntlets. Just follow the instructions on each.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Feb 12, 2018, 08:50 AM
Thanks, guys! I'll probably need to wait until spring to get started on the gauntlets, unfortunately. Somehow I don't think anyone would appreciate sanding dust and possible fumes inside the house, and once I graduate college I'll actually have some free time again...  ???

Havelock- I probably don't drink enough water in kit. I'll try to remember to bring a water bottle with me next time. Sure can't hurt anything!  :P

Kryamla- I'll check into asking a doctor. My family is jam packed with medical professionals, so I might ask them too.

Also, Ivy and I did a photoshoot out at a park yesterday, and I didn't get a headache then! I took Ibuprofen beforehand, so that might have something to do with it. After yesterday, I'm getting more and more suspicious about it being my helmet padding. I'd really like to get a construction helmet suspension in there, but that would be something to do at an armor party. I don't really trust myself to make huge changes on my bucket by myself.  :laugh:

I'm going to start a forum in the costume gallery soon, but until I get that going, here's one of my favorite pics from yesterday:

(https://i.imgur.com/HVUKJQq.jpg)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Feb 12, 2018, 09:40 AM
*pew pew pew*
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Shammah on Feb 12, 2018, 03:29 PM
Look at you with a blaster rather than pointy-stabby things! :laugh:
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Feb 12, 2018, 05:00 PM
Lol I should point out that that rifle is definitely not approved....
Someday it will be but not before a lot of work!

Costume gallery forum is up! (https://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=148587.0)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Torolf Goran on Feb 12, 2018, 07:49 PM
When I was in the SCA a couple heavy fighters would get headaches from wearing armor. For one it was an external compression headache caused by his helmet. For the other guys we figured out it was their backplates and or gorgets pressing on a nerve.

SCA armor is much heavier but I imagine Mando armor could cause the same issues. Start with the helmet then the backplate. If making adjustments doesn't seem to help then definately go see a doctor or chiropractor.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Feb 13, 2018, 08:21 PM
Thanks for the tips, I'll see what I can do with the helmet until I can get a hard hat suspension.

Did some kit repair today, nothing really to show, but I fixed a hole in my gloves and restapled my knife holster. Also added snaps to my knee plates and some velcro, so they should finally stop slipping down every two minutes.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 29, 2018, 10:28 AM
Thanks to the armor party yesterday, I've fulfilled my dream of getting a mirrored visor! Now I can go indoors without being blinded!

(https://i.imgur.com/xEAjFOR.jpg)

We applied the tint to the visor even though we didn't actually find tutorials that said to do that, but it worked out really well. Used the appropriate squeegee and spray, got most of the bubbles out. (There's still some, but they're so minor that it doesn't effect my vision and you can only tell if you're staring at it looking for flaws.) Started to cut it out with metal shears, which were separating the tint from the visor, so we switched to a dremel, which ended up melting together the visor and the tint at the edges and holding them together really nicely. I do need to maybe super glue down the edge that was cut by shears. Nobody can tell if you're not looking for it, but I know there's a loose edge there.

I also tried an uj cake recipe, which was enjoyed.  ;D

(https://i.imgur.com/ruNLgy5.jpg)

Goals for the future, now that it's finally spring/summer and I'm graduating college in a week:
-Finish the 3D-printed gauntlets I've got
-Make a bevii'ragir so I have another proper weapon instead of a Big Ol Stick
-Quick fix on my holster, some of the leather came apart
-If I ever am really, really craving an extended project, I might try and widen my plate spacing a little. It's about as narrow as you can possibly get away with right now.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Shammah on Apr 29, 2018, 03:31 PM
That came out very good, and so was the uj cake! ;D
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Havelock on Apr 29, 2018, 09:02 PM
I wanna try some Uj cake!  Grats on adding the mirroring to your visor.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Apr 30, 2018, 10:30 PM
I wanna try some Uj cake!

Nayc!  All the uj'alayi are belong to me.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Dec 05, 2019, 02:52 AM
Only a small update, but big news! I will soon be replacing the plates (and flak vest) on this kit! The templates are updated, cut out, and ready to be brought to life in Sintra at the armor party this Saturday!

(https://i.imgur.com/Shy6Hag.jpg)

The biggest changes are that, because I know exactly how narrow the plates really need to be this time, the curves have been taken out of the chest and collar plates are replaced with the standard straight lines. I did the math- the plate pattern for a 5'4" boba calls for the collar plate to be 12" wide. I am 5'4" but my collar plate is 8" wide, a whole third narrower. The backplates have also been revamped and the V cuts are deeper. Everything is double-checked for symmetry.

This time I'm going to try magnets for attachment, and have some nice quilted fabric for the flak vest, and plans for a much slicker closure method.

Oh, and I stuck a pen spring in my helmet rangefinder so it will finally stop flopping down.  ;D
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Dec 05, 2019, 11:33 AM
Pen spring ftw.  Glad to see your WiP come back to life.   :like:
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Shammah on Dec 05, 2019, 11:34 AM
Great to see you working on this! It should look and wear better. ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Dragon Sunkiller on Dec 05, 2019, 10:41 PM
I'm excited to see this take shape!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Dec 08, 2019, 11:40 AM
After seeing all the plates get cut out yesterday I'm even more excited for this.   ;D
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Dec 08, 2019, 02:59 PM
Hoping to get the flak vest for this one done soon! I will post pictures of the plates and hopefully flak vest progress later this week!

EDIT: Here are the plate blanks

(https://i.imgur.com/DVUYDu1.jpg)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: aforklikeutensil on Dec 14, 2019, 10:17 AM
(https://media2.giphy.com/media/UlqLDtI8Qc0j6/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Apr 26, 2020, 09:01 PM
Right. So. It's been four months instead of a week, but I finally have a progress update. Shortly after my last post in this thread, my grandpa went into hospice and his funeral was shortly after, and it's just been one thing after another since, but with the school semester ending I finally got the flak vest done.

(https://i.imgur.com/jqz2YLT.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/W0r0jgX.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/7btSeLV.jpg)

And a shot of the closure system (bilateral) for good measure:
(https://i.imgur.com/BSdYp4X.jpg)

This was originally intended to be the flak vest for my second kit, (link in signature under Beviin Shrike) but there's a few slip ups that aren't a big deal, but I really want to fix for my New And Improved kit. Messy seams and I want the collar to detach, mainly. I have plans to make one of the two flak vest compatible with multiple plate sets.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: Shammah on May 01, 2020, 05:06 PM
Great to see you moving forward again.  ;)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on May 01, 2020, 06:51 PM
Thank you! It's been way too long!

Tutorial for my flak vest style is now in my signature.

Flight suit came today! It needs shortening in the sleeves and legs and the crotch needs to come up a little bit, but it's all pretty minor stuff. Once I have the flight suit done, this kit will be troopable again- I'm just a bit bigger every direction than I was at 18 and the flight suit was a little too snug to start out with, so I can't move in it at all now.

After the flight suit, flak vest and new plates are done, I'm looking at the gauntlets next. After that, I'm going to replace the spear, and I'd like to put a light on the helmet. This build is taking second priority though- my main build is currently the Beviin Shrike build, also in my signature.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on May 02, 2020, 11:24 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/IWf77vw.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/UKSrt9V.jpg)

Got all the major flight suit changes alterations done today! Ripped out and sewed shut pockets, narrowed sleeves and legs, took in crotch and armpits, hemmed all the cuffs. I'm debating taking the legs in maybe another inch- when wearing they fit like jeans, but looking at the pictures, I'm going back and forth on whether that's too baggy or not.

Just have to add snaps for the cod plate and knees and add velcro to the thumbs and foot, and then do weathering, and this kit will be troopable again!
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on May 16, 2020, 12:27 AM
Finally had a free afternoon with nice weather to work on plates! I did as well as I could with a dremel and some sandpaper, but, well, you can tell the edges were cleaned with a dremel and sandpaper. I'm trying to decide if I like it or if I need to find a friend with a belt sander.

(https://i.imgur.com/9XW7BAE.jpg?1)

The flight suit is 95% finished, I just can't find a spray bottle anywhere to finish weathering it. I'm also remaking the sash belt, old one doesn't quite fit anymore.
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Dec 24, 2020, 10:05 AM
So I posted more of these on my gallery thread (link in bio) but I did a photoshoot with my cousin! His Facebook page is here (https://www.facebook.com/charlesbuckleyphotography/)

(https://i.imgur.com/m6M1fyR.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/1862BEN.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/M1Y1Vku.jpg)
Title: Re: Build 1.5
Post by: trashcanmando on Jan 04, 2021, 10:29 AM
Got my new plates shaped this week, really loving the sintra. I will be redoing the neck seal on the flak ves tas it just isn't up to my standards. May need to refine the fit of the flight suit too, I had some mishaps while tailoring it.... Hoping you all had a good holiday season and a happy start to the new year!
Title: Re: Build 1.5 - Akaleh Skirata
Post by: Shammah on Jan 04, 2021, 10:30 PM
Really looking forward to seeing the new kit.
Title: Re: Build 1.5 - Akaleh Skirata
Post by: trashcanmando on Jan 20, 2022, 10:36 PM
The dreaded print sanding.

(https://i.imgur.com/jVKiST2.jpg)

At first I was really hating this, but I think I'm getting into the groove! Still not going to be doing more printed items than I absolutely have to...

It's years late, but thanks again to Havelock for giving me these gauntlets!

I spent some time today revamping my work space. Gotta do something while I'm waiting for the weather to allow painting again  :laugh:
Title: Re: Build 1.5 - Akaleh Skirata
Post by: trashcanmando on Feb 12, 2022, 11:09 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/H0u0TrR.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/OR17w20.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/tS5b5Yf.jpg)

Gauntlets are finished and ruus'alor approved! My plates have been shaped and fine tuned at the last AP, and I'm slowly gluing magnets to them- slow because I only have five clamps  :laugh: Going to also need another flight suit... Think I'm gonna go brown this time. Really messed up the tailoring in the legs, so.. Definitely going to need reapproval soon  :P