This update represents the most nerve racking part of this whole build to date......
The molding and dying of the chest piece.
😱😱😵💫😵💫
I started off by making a jig to mount my form onto and allow me to secure the leather in place while it dried.


Then after soaking the leather for about 45 min I secured it tight with clamps and other things tight to the mold and took the time to smooth and press it into all the corners

24 hours later I pulled it off and trimmed the excess leather to make it the final shape.

Then came the dying, which was challenging. Trying to keep nice straight lines using cotton daubers was hard. I did try also using a small brush to outline the red and make it easier to do the black. I am like 90% happy with how it came out. That will have to be good enough lol. I also dyed the back piece as well



Whew!!! That was the part I was dreading the most so I am glad its behind me. This is coming together nicely.
I still have a bit to figure out: how to bring the chest and back together, strapping for the armor pieces, flightsuit to be made, backpack and air hoses.
But its getting closer......