My first attempt at armor

[SoL]

So, a little while ago, I decided to fully recreate my YOROI armor from Halo Infinite out of cardboard. That was, what, a year ago? Since then, I've spent countless hours designing and drawing every angle and piece of armor so I can be as accurate as possible. (Below are two of my reference drawings)

Any advice on actually constructing this armor would be greatly appreciated, as this project is very important to me and I would like to do it well.

 

[SgtSaint]

Cardboard? Maybe its just me but it seems like a huge investment in labor for something that has... well... not a lot of robustness and probably not a very long lifespan.

Personally - I'd just use existing files and have it 3d printed.

Halo Infinite - Yoroi - Core Armor and many Variants by moesizzlac

05.23.23 - Broke up Chest piece into smaller segments for better mobility (see second Zip File) 05.22.23 Update - Increased the size of the helmet base and add ons to fit a 24" head. I also cut the helmet into 14 pieces for easier print. (see zip file) Also fixed some geometry issues I found...

www.thingiverse.com

or

HALO Yoroi armor only 3d print files | 3D Print Model

Model available for download in Stereolithography format. Visit CGTrader and browse more than 1 million 3D models, including 3D print and real-time assets

www.cgtrader.com

Came up right away on a quick search. I'm sure there's more sources out there.

 

[Cadet]

SoL what materials and experience do you have with Cosplay construction and what is your budget? That will help us give you the best advice. We understand that not everyone has a 3D printer or the disposable income to commission someone else to print parts for them, so we want to set you up for success with the best method that fits you, your circumstances, and your skill and comfort level.

In terms of previous cardboard builds, those members who came before you either freehanded it with detailed plans, like you have, or done a modified version of the Pepakura method or the foam method. Those that went that route used the Pepakura templates for the costume of their choice, traced onto the cardboard, and then reinforced and strengthen the cardboard with resin, fiberglass, and or other non toxic materials that add rigidity and strength. We can explain more of those later if you donhave access, skill, or ability to use the more toxic resin and fiberglass set up.

Take a moment to read through the Tutorial Index here and focus on the Pepakura and Foam construction areas, as they will translate the best to a cardboard build:

Tutorial Index

Tutorial Index Who can make a Tutorial? A: Anyone How do I make a tutorial? A: Create a thread in any part of the forum you think your tutorial pertains to such as Costume, Props, Soft Parts etc. How do I get the tutorial in the Tutorial Section? A: start a conversation with me or any staff...

www.405th.com

 

[SoL]

SoL what materials and experience do you have with Cosplay construction and what is your budget? That will help us give you the best advice. We understand that not everyone has a 3D printer or the disposable income to commission someone else to print parts for them, so we want to set you up for success with the best method that fits you, your circumstances, and your skill and comfort level. In terms of previous cardboard builds, those members who came before you either freehanded it with detailed plans, like you have, or done a modified version of the Pepakura method or the foam method. Those that went that route used the Pepakura templates for the costume of their choice, traced onto the cardboard, and then reinforced and strengthen the cardboard with resin, fiberglass, and or other non toxic materials that add rigidity and strength. We can explain more of those later if you donhave access, skill, or ability to use the more toxic resin and fiberglass set up. Take a moment to read through the Tutorial Index here and focus on the Pepakura and Foam construction areas, as they will translate the best to a cardboard build:

Tutorial Index

Tutorial Index Who can make a Tutorial? A: Anyone How do I make a tutorial? A: Create a thread in any part of the forum you think your tutorial pertains to such as Costume, Props, Soft Parts etc. How do I get the tutorial in the Tutorial Section? A: start a conversation with me or any staff...

www.405th.com

I'm used to working with cardboard to make helmets, and I've started the Kabuto helmet (see below), which I think is looking really nice, and for budget, I have $1,000 in disposable income, but I want to make it as cheap as possible, so I decided to use cardboard

 

[N8TEBB]

I'm used to working with cardboard to make helmets, and I've started the Kabuto helmet (see below), which I think is looking really nice, and for budget, I have $1,000 in disposable income, but I want to make it as cheap as possible, so I decided to use cardboard
View attachment 354237

Very cool! As Cadet said there are quite a few resources in the tutorial index that will be helpful in your cardboard construction.

While it may be possible to make the whole suit from cardboard, I would recommend looking into foam crafting some of the pieces. I think you'll find that the flexibility foam has will aid in your construction process. It will be easier to make curved parts, easier to create small details, and mush easier to fill the seams. If you have a lot of experience with using cardboard, I think you'll find that a lot of you skills will be transferrable to foam crafting. There will be a bit of al earning curve, but with your experience I think you'll be able to overcome it faster than most. I will also vouch for foam crafting over cardboard because foam will try to keep its shape better than cardboard which will crease and weaken. Also, as many of our members do foam crafting, it will be easier to get quick feedback and advice.

If you're interested in a general overview of foam crafting, I made a video I made that takes you through the whole process. I can send you the link if you're interested. Whether you choose foam or cardboard I'm sure you'll be able to create a wonderful suit of armour.

As for the budget, I created my first suit entirely from foam for under $1000 Canadian dollars. It is quite doable, although not guaranteed.

Please let me know if you have questions!

 

[SoL]

Very cool! As Cadet said there are quite a few resources in the tutorial index that will be helpful in your cardboard construction.

While it may be possible to make the whole suit from cardboard, I would recommend looking into foam crafting some of the pieces. I think you'll find that the flexibility foam has will aid in your construction process. It will be easier to make curved parts, easier to create small details, and mush easier to fill the seams. If you have a lot of experience with using cardboard, I think you'll find that a lot of you skills will be transferrable to foam crafting. There will be a bit of al earning curve, but with your experience I think you'll be able to overcome it faster than most. I will also vouch for foam crafting over cardboard because foam will try to keep its shape better than cardboard which will crease and weaken. Also, as many of our members do foam crafting, it will be easier to get quick feedback and advice.

If you're interested in a general overview of foam crafting, I made a video I made that takes you through the whole process. I can send you the link if you're interested. Whether you choose foam or cardboard I'm sure you'll be able to create a wonderful suit of armour.

As for the budget, I created my first suit entirely from foam for under $1000 Canadian dollars. It is quite doable, although not guaranteed.

Please let me know if you have questions!

I've actually seen your video (like, seven times), which was part of the reason I chose to do cardboard

I'm looking for a bit of a challenge, and foam just doesn't seem to be right for that purpose, but I will certainly look into it

 

[N8TEBB]

I've actually seen your video (like, seven times), which was part of the reason I chose to do cardboard

I'm looking for a bit of a challenge, and foam just doesn't seem to be right for that purpose, but I will certainly look into it

Well thank you for watching!

No worries if foam isn't what you're looking for. Best of luck in your cardboard build! We will all do our best to keep answering questions as best we can

 

[SoL]

Well thank you for watching!

No worries if foam isn't what you're looking for. Best of luck in your cardboard build! We will all do our best to keep answering questions as best we can

Thank you

 

[SoL]

I have a (minor) update. After spending literally 7 hours of re-sketching, I have modified and nearly finished the Kabuto.




I do, however, have some questions about actually putting on the armor.

- Do I need a harness to hold everything in place, or, since the Yoroi Armor Core has far less armor pieces than the others, would I be able to put on each piece independently?
- I was thinking of using parachute clips, as I have several left over from my Power Armor, would that work?
- Since I'm shooting for at least a tier 2 for deployment, how well do I have to hide the clips (assuming I use them)?
- Would I be able to simply place them in between the separate pieces of armor on the dō (cuirass) section, or should I tuck them away?

I also have some questions about deployment (assuming someone can answer them for me...).

- Since the Yoroi Armor Core has built-in lights, do I need them to get a 2, or will it be fine without?
- What should the balance be between fitting well and being accurate to the game?

I'm sure I'll get more questions with time, so I guess I'll post them here... Of course, I'll still browse through some of the threads that may help in the meantime.

 

[N8TEBB]

Do I need a harness to hold everything in place, or, since the Yoroi Armor Core has far less armor pieces than the others, would I be able to put on each piece independently?

Unfortunately I am not terribly certain as I have not made a Yoroi core amour suit. I do know however that Emp Frosty has made a two very impressive Yoroi core suits, and he mentions the strapping in this post. I hope he can shed some light on this.

- I was thinking of using parachute clips, as I have several left over from my Power Armor, would that work?
- Since I'm shooting for at least a tier 2 for deployment, how well do I have to hide the clips (assuming I use them)?

Parachute clips work well. I've used them excessively in my rigging. They are quite ideal because that are easy to connect and disconnect without having to look at them, making them easier to hide. I would recommend hiding them as best you can. Try to hide the clips just beyond the armour so they're still accessible to you. For example in my suit, I have a straps that connect my thigh pieces to a belt. I made sure to put the clips up high enough so that the cod piece covers them. This allows me to still have all the straps I need, while being accessible, while hiding them.

As for your question about deployment, I hope one of the members that is on the deployment committee will see this thread and will be able to answer.

 

[SoL]

I decided to throw together a 3D model, with the Grappleshot and everything. I guess this is my reference model now..?



This is my first time using Blender so I'm not sure about how I can fine-tune it, but for now, it's fine

 

[JP120800]

All ill say is that straps and velcro are your friend, im currently experimentig with some resin glue and 'D' clips for the thighs. alot of my armour didnt need straps, just foam to buff it out

 

[BlazingForge]

I have a (minor) update. After spending literally 7 hours of re-sketching, I have modified and nearly finished the Kabuto.

View attachment 354303View attachment 354304


I do, however, have some questions about actually putting on the armor.

- Do I need a harness to hold everything in place, or, since the Yoroi Armor Core has far less armor pieces than the others, would I be able to put on each piece independently?
- I was thinking of using parachute clips, as I have several left over from my Power Armor, would that work?
- Since I'm shooting for at least a tier 2 for deployment, how well do I have to hide the clips (assuming I use them)?
- Would I be able to simply place them in between the separate pieces of armor on the dō (cuirass) section, or should I tuck them away?

I also have some questions about deployment (assuming someone can answer them for me...).

- Since the Yoroi Armor Core has built-in lights, do I need them to get a 2, or will it be fine without?
- What should the balance be between fitting well and being accurate to the game?

I'm sure I'll get more questions with time, so I guess I'll post them here... Of course, I'll still browse through some of the threads that may help in the meantime.

so you are shooting for a tier two? I don't think cardboard is the right material for that. I doubt most cardboard builds would receive any higher than a tier 1. I would heavily recommend switching to EVA foam if you really wanna shoot for that tier two! as for the designs if you have access to a windows computer you can download Pepakura Designer and use the unfolds in this thread to at least have a good 2d reference! Overall I wish you luck! and I'd say considering this I believe is your first build (correct me if I'm wrong) you shouldn't shoot for a tier. Make what you want! My current suit is the first full suit I made and it only qualifies as a tier 1 because I made what I wanted to! overall wish you luck on your build!

 

[SoL]

so you are shooting for a tier two? I don't think cardboard is the right material for that. I doubt most cardboard builds would receive any higher than a tier 1. I would heavily recommend switching to EVA foam if you really wanna shoot for that tier two! as for the designs if you have access to a windows computer you can download Pepakura Designer and use the unfolds in this thread to at least have a good 2d reference! Overall I wish you luck! and I'd say considering this I believe is your first build (correct me if I'm wrong) you shouldn't shoot for a tier. Make what you want! My current suit is the first full suit I made and it only qualifies as a tier 1 because I made what I wanted to! overall wish you luck on your build!

I'm mostly going after a tier 2 so I don't lose motivation and get lazy to be honest, but thanks for the advice regardless

 

[SoL]

All ill say is that straps and velcro are your friend, im currently experimentig with some resin glue and 'D' clips for the thighs. alot of my armour didnt need straps, just foam to buff it out

good to know, thanks