How to Create an Astrid Costume from How to Train Your Dragon
Creating an Astrid costume from How to Train Your Dragon can be a fun and rewarding project, whether for cosplay conventions, Halloween, or just for fun. This guide will walk you through the process of making a detailed and accurate Astrid costume, including the armor, clothing, and accessories. We will also highlight some resources like CrazeCosplay.com and Rank No.1 for purchasing pre-made costumes and accessories.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
-
EVA foam
-
Faux leather
-
Brown fur
-
Red knit fabric
-
Silver Fimo clay
-
Upholstery tacks
-
Tim Tex or Peltex (for stiffening)
-
Acrylic paints (various colors)
-
Plasti-Dip spray
-
Brown spray paint
-
Black acrylic paint
-
Liquid silicone
-
Worbla (for crafting spikes)
-
Fake fur (for underskirt)
-
Leather cord (for headband and braids)
Tools:
-
Scissors
-
Box cutter (with fresh blades)
-
Soldering iron
-
Belt sander
-
Shaping tools
-
Paintbrushes
-
Hot glue gun
-
Sewing machine
-
Needle and thread
-
Sandpaper
-
Heat gun
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Creating the Armor
Patterning and Cutting:
-
Create Patterns: Use saran wrap and duct tape to create a pattern for each piece of armor. Wrap the saran wrap around the body part you are patterning, then cover it with duct tape. Draw the shapes of the armor pieces on the duct tape and cut them out to create your patterns.
-
Transfer to EVA Foam: Transfer the patterns to EVA foam and cut out the pieces using a box cutter. Be sure to use fresh blades for clean cuts.
Assembling the Armor:
-
Heat Shaping: Use a heat gun to shape the foam pieces to fit the contours of your body.
-
Gluing: Use hot glue to assemble the pieces. Ensure all edges are securely glued together.
Detailing:
-
Dragon Scales: Create dragon scales using EVA foam or Worbla. Attach them to the armor using hot glue.
-
Skulls and Spikes: Sculpt small skulls and spikes using silver Fimo clay. Bake them according to the instructions and attach them to the armor with glue.
-
Straps and Buckles: Add straps and buckles using faux leather and upholstery tacks.
Painting:
-
Base Coat: Apply a base coat of Plasti-Dip spray to seal the foam.
-
Color: Use brown spray paint for the leather parts and acrylic paints for the details. Dry-brush black acrylic paint into the crevices to add depth and a weathered look.
2. Making the Clothing
Shirt and Skirt:
-
Shirt: Use red knit fabric to sew a basic shirt. Add faux leather details and spikes made from Fimo clay.
-
Skirt: Sew a skirt using brown fur and faux leather. Add leather flaps with spikes attached.
Arm and Leg Warmers:
-
Arm Warmers: Sew arm warmers using fake leather and fleece. Add faux fur cuffs.
-
Leg Warmers: Sew leg warmers using the same materials as the arm warmers.
Underskirt:
-
Fake Fur: Sew an underskirt using fake fur. Line it for added comfort.
3. Accessories
Headband:
-
Leather Headband: Make a headband using fake leather and Worbla’s Deco Art pearls. Attach it with leather cord.
Axe:
-
Patterning: Create a pattern for the axe using insulation foam. Cut out the shape and assemble it.
-
Painting: Paint the axe using the same techniques as the armor.
Boot Covers:
-
Fur and Leather: Create boot covers using brown leather or suede and tan-colored fur. Add leather cord stitching and criss-cross designs.
4. Finishing Touches
Hair and Makeup:
-
Wig: Style a blonde wig with braids similar to Astrid’s hairstyle. Use leather strips to braid into the hair.
-
Makeup: Apply minimal makeup, focusing on mascara for the eyelashes.
Purchasing Pre-Made Costumes and Accessories
If you prefer to purchase a pre-made costume or specific accessories, websites like CrazeCosplay.com offer a variety of options. They provide professionally tailored costumes and accessories that can save you time and effort. For example, you can find detailed Astrid costumes that include all the necessary components, from armor to clothing.
Conclusion
Creating an Astrid costume from How to Train Your Dragon involves a combination of crafting, sewing, and painting. By following this detailed guide, you can create a costume that is both accurate and impressive. Whether you choose to make the costume yourself or purchase parts of it, the end result will be a fantastic representation of Astrid’s iconic look. Happy crafting!