How to make harness for cosplay wings?

Understanding the Basics of Wing Harnesses

1. Weight distribution: The harness should evenly distribute the weight of the wings across your back and shoulders to prevent strain and discomfort.

2. Stability: A good harness keeps the wings securely in place, minimizing unwanted movement or sagging.

3. Comfort: The harness should be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods, often throughout an entire convention day.

4. Adjustability: Your harness should allow for adjustments to ensure a proper fit for different body types or costume variations.

5. Concealment: The harness should be designed to be easily hidden within or complement your costume.

Materials and Tools

• 1/8" (3mm) thick minimum acrylic sheet (clear for invisible harnesses)
• PVC pipes and couplings
• Heavy-duty cable/zip ties
• Epoxy 2-part glue
• Rubber bands
• Scrap Worbla
• High-density foam (6mm thick recommended)
• Contact cement adhesive
• Woven elastic (1" wide)
• Wide webbing or padded straps
• Velcro or other adjustable closures
• Fabric matching your costume (for concealment)

• Scroll saw or laser cutter
• Heat gun
• Drill or soldering iron
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Marker or pencil
• Sandpaper
• Dress form or mannequin

Designing Your Harness

1. Backpack-style harness: This design uses straps that go over the shoulders and around the waist, similar to a backpack. It's ideal for heavier wings as it distributes weight effectively.

2. Corset-mounted harness: This method involves attaching the wing mount to a corset, which distributes weight around the torso. It's excellent for bare-shouldered costumes but requires a well-fitted corset.

3. Plate harness: A shaped plate (often acrylic or lightweight metal) conforms to your back and attaches with straps. This design can be very stable and is good for a range of wing sizes.

4. Invisible harness: Using clear materials and minimal visible components, this design aims to be as unnoticeable as possible, ideal for costumes with exposed backs or shoulders.

Step-by-Step Harness Construction

1. Create the base plate:
   1. If using acrylic, cut the sheet to match your back's contours. You can use a template or trace directly onto the acrylic.
   2. For laser cutting, prepare your design file with appropriate measurements.
   3. If using a scroll saw, follow safety guidelines and use appropriate blades for acrylic.

2. Shape the harness:
   1. Place the cut acrylic over a dress form or mannequin.
   2. Use a heat gun to carefully shape the acrylic to fit the contours of the back. Be cautious, as the acrylic will be very hot.
   3. Allow the shaped acrylic to cool completely before proceeding.

3. Attach PVC couplings:
   1. Determine the placement of your PVC couplings based on your wing design.
   2. Sand the areas where the couplings will be attached to improve adhesion.
   3. Mix and apply epoxy according to the manufacturer's instructions.
   4. Secure the couplings in place with rubber bands while the epoxy cures.

4. Add comfort padding:
   1. Cut Worbla to fit under the harness where it will contact your back.
   2. Apply contact cement to both the Worbla and the harness, then attach them.
   3. Cut high-density foam to match the Worbla shape.
   4. Use contact cement to attach the foam to the Worbla, creating a comfortable padding layer.

5. Create attachment points:
   1. If not already present, cut or drill holes in the harness for zip ties.
   2. Thread heavy-duty zip ties through these holes, positioning them to secure your wings.
   3. Tighten the zip ties around the PVC couplings and trim excess.
   4. For added strength, apply epoxy over the zip tie connections.

6. Add straps:
   1. Attach elastic or webbing straps to create a "backpack" style harness.
   2. Consider creating a crisscross pattern for added support and stability.
   3. Use strong adhesive or sew the straps securely to the harness.

7. Final touches:
   1. Add any additional padding or comfort features as needed.
   2. Consider creating decorative covers for the PVC couplings to match your costume aesthetic.

Fitting and Adjusting Your Harness

1. Put on the harness and adjust the straps for a snug but comfortable fit.
2. Have a friend help you attach your wings to the harness.
3. Test the weight distribution and make any necessary adjustments to the straps or padding.
4. Move around, bend, and stretch to ensure the harness stays in place and remains comfortable.
5. Make note of any pressure points or areas of discomfort and address them with additional padding or strap adjustments.

Integrating the Harness with Your Costume

1. Plan your costume design with the harness in mind, incorporating elements that can help conceal straps or attachment points.
2. Use fabric that matches your costume to cover visible parts of the harness.
3. Consider adding decorative elements like feathers, scales, or armor pieces to disguise the harness components.
4. For backless or revealing costumes, explore clear or skin-toned materials for harness components.

Spotlight on crazecosplay.com

1. Carefully review the product descriptions to understand what's included in the costume and how the wings are attached.
2. Check customer reviews and photos to get an idea of the costume's quality and the effectiveness of the wing attachment system.
3. Look for costumes with adjustable harnesses or straps to ensure a good fit.
4. Consider how you might customize or enhance a purchased costume to make it uniquely yours, perhaps by modifying the existing harness or adding additional support.

Tips for Specific Wing Types

• Use lightweight, clear materials for an ethereal look.
• Consider a minimalist harness design to maintain the delicate aesthetic.
• Incorporate decorative elements like crystals or glitter to disguise attachment points.

• Design a harness that allows for a high wing placement to achieve a classic angelic look.
• Use white or metallic materials that complement feathered wings.
• Consider a corset-mounted design for stability with larger wings.

• Create a more robust harness to support heavier, mechanical components.
• Incorporate the harness design into the overall mechanical aesthetic of the wings.
• Consider using actual metal components or metallic paints for authenticity.

• Design a sturdy harness capable of supporting larger, heavier wings.
• Use materials and colors that complement the wing texture (e.g., scales, leather).
• Consider incorporating the harness into a broader back piece or armor design.

Maintenance and Care

1. Regularly inspect all attachment points, straps, and padding for signs of wear or damage.
2. Clean the harness according to the materials used, typically with a gentle soap and water solution.
3. Store the harness flat or on a mannequin to maintain its shape when not in use.
4. Keep a small repair kit with you at conventions, including extra zip ties, adhesive, and touch-up materials.

Safety Considerations

1. Ensure all materials used are strong enough to support the weight of your wings.
2. Test the harness thoroughly before wearing it for extended periods.
3. Be aware of your expanded size when wearing wings and move carefully in crowded spaces.
4. Consider adding a quick-release mechanism for emergencies or comfort.

Conclusion