SDB15 Posted June 3, 2017 Share Posted June 3, 2017 Hey all, I'm just getting started with my build and want to get some advice. Right now, I'm just trying to get all the right components together. Thanks in advance! Purchased: Kit from Walt's Trooper Factory TK Boots Ammo Pouches - https://www.amazon.com/trooper-Black-Canvas-Magazine-Pouch/dp/B01JB9A2CG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1493564586&sr=8-2&keywords=WWII+MP40+magazine+pouch Pauldron - https://www.amazon.com/trooper-Shoulder-Pauldron-Costuming-Cosplay/dp/B01ISING74/ref=cts_ap_1_vtp?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=2897711222&pf_rd_r=87CPDQXGAHA962DAB2T8&pd_rd_wg=TAofD&pf_rd_s=desktop-detail-softlines&pf_rd_t=40701&pd_rd_i=B01ISINFWA&pd_rd_w=BrAMu&pf_rd_i=desktop-detail-softlines&pd_rd_r=87CPDQXGAHA962DAB2T8&_encoding=UTF8 Neck Seal - Darmans Props To Purchase: Straps and Brackets - https://trooperbay.com/costuming-accessories/kits-combos/stormtrooper-sandtrooper-full-bracket-set Decals - Trooperbay? Do these make weathering a pain? Gloves - (Trooperbay? Or maybe these? https://www.amazon.com/Rapdom-Tactical-Flight-Gloves-Medium/dp/B0089QIDK6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496505530&sr=8-1&keywords=black+flight+gloves) Undersuit - should I buy from trooperbay or just look for some underarmor? Frown Screen - Trooperbay Lens - Trooperbay (Dark green or regular?) https://trooperbay.com/costuming-accessories/lenses-eyewear/dark-green-lens-material Mic Tips - Trooperbay (necessary? should I just paint and use regular screen material?) https://trooperbay.com/costuming-accessories/armor-parts/mike-tips Helmet Padding - https://www.amazon.com/FMA-Replacement-Universal-Padding-Accessories/dp/B0185O0R6E/ref=pd_sbs_200_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0185O0R6E&pd_rd_r=YCS49FCERQXQ4609SN9K&pd_rd_w=SV1Es&pd_rd_wg=MP5hY&psc=1&refRID=YCS49FCERQXQ4609SN9K (my only complaint with the kit I borrowed to try out was I couldn't keep the helmet positioned. I'd like some padding and straps so I'm not fighting with it.) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LoveMonkey Posted June 4, 2017 Share Posted June 4, 2017 You're off to a good start. We've already chatted, so if you have questions let me know. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Airborne Trooper Posted June 5, 2017 Share Posted June 5, 2017 Another option for the helmet is to use a hard hat liner. Very easy and cheap to cut one up and glue inside the helmet. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LoveMonkey Posted June 5, 2017 Share Posted June 5, 2017 You should double check and make sure the decals and mic tips don't come with your kit. I don't know about WTF but my AM kit included them. That way you don't buy twice. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Airborne Trooper Posted June 6, 2017 Share Posted June 6, 2017 Ditch the stickers, get a template from trooperbay and hand paint them. You'll thank me when it's said and done 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HansVader Posted June 6, 2017 Share Posted June 6, 2017 Ditch the stickers, get a template from trooperbay and hand paint them. You'll thank me when it's said and done Lol! Just when you think you knew everything on trooperbay!! Which color is best? Midnight blue or French blue? Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HansVader Posted June 6, 2017 Share Posted June 6, 2017 Ditch the stickers, get a template from trooperbay and hand paint them. You'll thank me when it's said and done Lol! Just when you think you knew everything on trooperbay!! Which color is best? Midnight blue or French blue? Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Airborne Trooper Posted June 6, 2017 Share Posted June 6, 2017 French Blue 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HansVader Posted June 6, 2017 Share Posted June 6, 2017 Thanks I needed to pick up some of that for my new bucket! I like to order as much as I can from them at once because shipping I'm sure they don't mind LOLSent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Airborne Trooper Posted June 6, 2017 Share Posted June 6, 2017 I bought my paint at Hobby Lobby... saved on shipping 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDB15 Posted June 10, 2017 Author Share Posted June 10, 2017 Thanks for the help so far. Worst case scenario, I may end up not using the decals. Minimal sunk cost though. Walt reports that my kit is delayed. So I've got time to watch more YouTube videos and read more build threads. I'll probably wait until my kit arrives to post again. Let me know if you see any gaping holes in my supply list. Here's where I'm at: Purchased: Kit from Walt's Trooper Factory TK Boots Ammo Pouches - https://www.amazon.com/trooper-Black-Canvas-Magazine-Pouch/dp/B01JB9A2CG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1493564586&sr=8-2&keywords=WWII+MP40+magazine+pouch Pauldron - https://www.amazon.com/trooper-Shoulder-Pauldron-Costuming-Cosplay/dp/B01ISING74/ref=cts_ap_1_vtp?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=2897711222&pf_rd_r=87CPDQXGAHA962DAB2T8&pd_rd_wg=TAofD&pf_rd_s=desktop-detail-softlines&pf_rd_t=40701&pd_rd_i=B01ISINFWA&pd_rd_w=BrAMu&pf_rd_i=desktop-detail-softlines&pd_rd_r=87CPDQXGAHA962DAB2T8&_encoding=UTF8 Neck Seal - Darmans Props Straps and Brackets - https://trooperbay.com/costuming-accessories/kits-combos/stormtrooper-sandtrooper-full-bracket-set Decals - Possibly won't use them. Frown Screen - Trooperbay Lens - Trooperbay (Dark green) https://trooperbay.com/costuming-accessories/lenses-eyewear/dark-green-lens-material Mic Tips - Trooperbay (necessary? should I just paint and use regular screen material?) https://trooperbay.com/costuming-accessories/armor-parts/mike-tips To Purchase: Gloves - (Trooperbay? Or maybe these? https://www.amazon.com/Rapdom-Tactical-Flight-Gloves-Medium/dp/B0089QIDK6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496505530&sr=8-1&keywords=black+flight+gloves) Undersuit - should I buy from trooperbay or just look for some underarmor? Helmet Padding - https://www.amazon.com/FMA-Replacement-Universal-Padding-Accessories/dp/B0185O0R6E/ref=pd_sbs_200_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0185O0R6E&pd_rd_r=YCS49FCERQXQ4609SN9K&pd_rd_w=SV1Es&pd_rd_wg=MP5hY&psc=1&refRID=YCS49FCERQXQ4609SN9K (my only complaint with the kit I borrowed to try out was I couldn't keep the helmet positioned. I'd like some padding and straps so I'm not fighting with it.) Straps for Chest Plate - included in kit? Canvas Belt Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dutchy Posted June 11, 2017 Share Posted June 11, 2017 You're already on a roll here. Regarding the helmet, you could also make a chin strap with snap buttons. That'll make sure that the helmet doesn't wobble around. Undersuit: The most commonly used under suit is Underarmor. But if you use a similar product you're good to go as well. Gloves: Nomex gloves are great for trooping but if you want to put in the extra effort get a pair of latex gloves as well. Looking forward to your build! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDB15 Posted August 16, 2017 Author Share Posted August 16, 2017 I find that I'm constantly saying to myself that I may not win any imperial beauty contests, but I am enjoying the build. I have divided it up into tasks and would like to have the uncompleted list done in time for a troop that will be happening in town within the next couple weeks. Perhaps wishful thinking. I think I have done all I can do without someone to help with the fitting. Is anything missing? I also need to buy those gloves and some padding material. DONE: Trim Flashing from all Parts Cut Helmet Eyes and Teeth Assemble Helmet Face and Cap Trim and Install Ears Back to Lower Back Brackets and Straps Chest to Ab Plate Brackets and Straps Back White Shoulder Straps Shoulder Bell Fit and Straps Shoulder Bell to Torso Straps (not installed until the shoulder straps are applied) Chest Snaps: 2x shoulder, 1x codpiece, 2x canvas belt Back Snaps: 1x butt plate Green Helmet Lens Cut and Install (removable) Thigh armor belt and straps (not sized) TO DO: Torso Clamshell Snaps and Straps (plus any shimming necessary) Torso Fit and Shoulder Straps Canvas Belt Assembly (I would like this to close on the side rather than the back to make it easier to kit up alone. Thoughts?) Shoulder Ammo Pouch Belt Ammo Pouch Bicep Fit and Glue Forearm Fit and Glue Thigh Fit and Glue Calf Fit and Glue Paint Helmet Details Helmet padding and straps Frown Screen Weathering Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DarthStevius Posted August 16, 2017 Share Posted August 16, 2017 Any pics yet Bro? that can sometimes help pick up on any points you've missed. Even if not fully together yet. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDB15 Posted August 17, 2017 Author Share Posted August 17, 2017 As Tarkin would say, it'll look even better with blood on it. https://goo.gl/photos/kVU2pNBJt6Bx4eAU9 I've got a long way to go. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DarthStevius Posted August 17, 2017 Share Posted August 17, 2017 8 hours ago, SDB15 said: As Tarkin would say, it'll look even better with blood on it. https://goo.gl/photos/kVU2pNBJt6Bx4eAU9 I've got a long way to go. Doesn't matter. You've started. which is more than many get to do. Shout with any questions as you go, there's plenty of help on here. I can access the link perfectly, but you might get more input if you can paste the URL links to each photo in your thread (for those you want people to see) and they should automaitcally display here in your thread. Good luck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Airborne Trooper Posted August 17, 2017 Share Posted August 17, 2017 You're on the right track, don't forget to separate the butt and kidney. You'll need to create the return edges on both pieces. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDB15 Posted August 17, 2017 Author Share Posted August 17, 2017 4 hours ago, Airborne Trooper said: You're on the right track, don't forget to separate the butt and kidney. You'll need to create the return edges on both pieces. Thanks! I got this from the CRL, is it wrong? Or is it just a bad idea to use a single butt and kidney? "It is allowable to have a single Kidney and Posterior Armor piece. If a separate Kidney plate is used, it lines up with the Abdomen Armor, with the top of the Kidney Armor flush to or under the Back Armor." Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Airborne Trooper Posted August 17, 2017 Share Posted August 17, 2017 I suppose it's ok for basic approval but I've never seen anyone leave them connected unless you're doing a ROTJ TK Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDB15 Posted August 17, 2017 Author Share Posted August 17, 2017 18 minutes ago, Airborne Trooper said: I suppose it's ok for basic approval but I've never seen anyone leave them connected unless you're doing a ROTJ TK Got it. Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDB15 Posted September 2, 2017 Author Share Posted September 2, 2017 New pictures in my build album. First attempt was not perfect, but I did get that "hey there's a stormtrooper in my house" feeling. https://goo.gl/photos/kVU2pNBJt6Bx4eAU9 Problems I see: Shoulders were twisted forward. Knee plate got pushed off calf. Why not attach thighs to bottom of ab plate? It seems like this would be more reliable than the belt and elastic I'm using now. Ammo knee doesn't quite look right. Insert other media Pauldron is too loose. Anything else I need to look at? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LoveMonkey Posted September 2, 2017 Share Posted September 2, 2017 Overall looks pretty good. I'm interested to see what it looks like once you've made the changes you already noted Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDB15 Posted September 3, 2017 Author Share Posted September 3, 2017 TO DO: Forearm padding (the straps to biceps make kitting up impossible for me and they rotate on me without em) Add shims to knee plate (keeps it away from the thigh by moving it forward) Trim thighs for mobility Strap thighs to ab plate (belt is inconsistent. I think this will make the fit more reliable. If I knock the knee plate off one more time so help me . . .) Shoulder Ammo Pouch (how do you keep it from moving around. I'm thinking about velcro on the chest plate) Belt Ammo Pouch Add snap to tighten pauldron Carve deeper corner into ammo knee Paint helmet details Helmet padding and straps Frown Screen Weathering Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Airborne Trooper Posted September 5, 2017 Share Posted September 5, 2017 You seem to be a slender guy. I can tell your thighs are bell shaped, you should trim them so they are tapered. Do this and throw a foam block on the rear thigh and one on the front of the shin and it'll keep your knee plate from getting tucked and even touching your knee. Your forearms can be tapered too. You have them on backwards or rotated the wrong way. The crescents should be just below the natural bend in your arm. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDB15 Posted September 9, 2017 Author Share Posted September 9, 2017 My paint arrived today: I have pretty shaky hands so every moment with that paintbrush was misery. I'm way more comfortable with a dremel. A few more adjustments until my next fitting, photos, and ToDo list. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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