My name is Scott and I just signed up today so I could begin posting to this forum. I live in the Cincinnati area and I've started researching my next costume build. I currently have a Sandtrooper costume that I put together myself and it's not bad, but I want something I can get approved by the 501st. The costume I have now is one I purchased on ebay and was originally going to be a Stormtrooper until I realized the Sandtroopers were much cooler and it was easier to hide the scratches so I converted it over. But now I want one that is screen correct so instead of trying to correct a number of things with my current costume, I decided now was a good time to build a new one but with all the right parts and pieces. I would be interested in feedback on which sites are best to purchase from and in particular, this RS Prop Masters site which is what I'm leaning towards at the moment.
If there are any costume builds in the Cincinnati/Dayton area, I would be interested in joining just to learn how these things are properly done. Once I'm done with mine I have my sons costume to build next so any tips or best practices are most appreciated. I almost lost my thumb trying to modify the inside of my first helmet with a box cutter so while I'm not afraid to build something, I would like to have full use of my hands when this is over.
I have a facebook page which has my pictures of my current costume if you want to check it out.
Thanks
Scott Golladay