How to make fake arms for cosplay?

Materials Needed

• Cellophane wrap
• Clear packing tape
• Wire (for armature)
• Polyfill or cotton filling
• White tights or leggings
• Scissors
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Craft foam (2mm thickness)
• Acrylic paints (silver, black, brown, etc.)
• Paintbrushes
• Plasti Dip (clear)
• Metal brads or small disks
• Heat source (heat gun or stove burner)
• Sharpie or permanent marker
• Paper (for pattern making)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Creating the Arm Base

Wrap and Tape Method

1. Wrap Your Arm: Start by wrapping your arm with cellophane wrap. This will serve as a base layer to protect your skin and create a smooth surface for the tape.
3. Apply Clear Tape: Carefully wrap clear packing tape over the cellophane. Ensure there are no bumps or wrinkles. The surface should be smooth when you run your hand over it.

3. Cut and Reassemble: Once the tape is applied, carefully cut it off your arm. Reassemble the cut piece by taping the seam back together. For added stability, tape both the inside and outside of the seam.

4. Fill the Arm: Fill the taped arm with polyfill or cotton filling to give it shape and volume. Repeat the process for the other arm.

Creating the Hands

1. Wrap and Tape Hands: Follow the same wrapping and taping process for your hands. This will create a hollow hand shape that can be filled and attached to the arm later.

2. Attach Hands to Arms: Once both the arms and hands are filled, use hot glue to attach the hands to the arms securely.

2. Making the Armature

1. Create a Wire Frame: Use wire to create a basic armature or skeleton for the arms. This will provide structure and allow the arms to be poseable.

2. Insert Armature into Arms: Insert the wire frame into the filled arms. Adjust the wire to ensure the arms can bend and hold poses as needed.

3. Adding Details with Craft Foam

1. Create Patterns: Use paper to create patterns for any additional details or armor pieces you want to add to the arms. Draw the patterns directly onto the tape using a sharpie.

2. Cut Out Foam Pieces: Transfer the patterns onto craft foam and cut out the pieces. Label them to avoid confusion during assembly.

3. Seal Foam with Plasti Dip: Spray the foam pieces with Plasti Dip to seal them. This will prepare the foam for painting and add durability. Apply several layers, allowing each to dry thoroughly.

4. Shape Foam Pieces: Use a heat gun or stove burner to carefully heat and shape the foam pieces. This will allow you to add curves and contours to match the design of your character's arms.

4. Painting and Finishing Touches

1. Base Coat: Apply a base coat of acrylic paint to the foam pieces. Use colors that match your character's design.

2. Detail Painting: Add details and shading to the foam pieces with different colors. Use reference images to ensure accuracy.

3. Attach Foam Pieces: Once the paint is dry, use hot glue to attach the foam pieces to the arms. Ensure they are securely fastened and positioned correctly.

4. Add Metal Brads: Attach metal brads or small disks to the foam pieces for added detail and realism.

5. Final Assembly

1. Attach Arms to Costume: Use straps, Velcro, or other fastening methods to attach the fake arms to your costume. Ensure they are secure and comfortable to wear.

2. Test Mobility: Test the mobility of the arms to ensure they can move and hold poses as needed. Make any necessary adjustments to the armature or attachment points.

Additional Resources

• Crazecosplay.com: While this site primarily offers pre-made costumes and accessories, it can be a great source for inspiration and additional pieces to complement your fake arms.
• Rank No.1: This site offers a variety of cosplay tutorials and materials, which can be helpful for finding specific techniques or supplies.

Conclusion