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How To Make Fake Arms For Cosplay

How To Make Fake Arms For Cosplay

Are you planning to make those arms for the next Comic-Con but are hesitant because it might cost a lot? Worry no more as there are a lot of ways to get that unique costume without hurting your pocket! Stick around and read our easy tutorial. This should help you carefully make those extra arms and be as detailed as possible without worrying about going over your budget.

Create Fake Arms For The Next Event

Create Fake Arms For The Next Event

Did you know that most cosplayers use costumes after crafting them from their own ideas? Cosplaying is not just about copying a character but being able to think outside the box. Creativity is always key in making a carefully crafted piece.

If you are looking to cosplay a character iconically known for its arms, then you’ve come to the right place! Although it may seem like a challenge to have an arm-piece worn for long hours as well as to have it hold its shape throughout the convention, accomplishing such a task will be very fulfilling. The arms do move a lot and can go through bending and flexing movements. It should fit you comfortably to be able to portray the character well during conventions.

Draw The Design Directly On Your Skin

Draw The Design Directly On Your Skin

Do you have a makeup pen at home? This will help you draw the design more easily. If you haven’t got any, simply use water-based paint. These types are also used for face painting so you are guaranteed that they are non-toxic and can be washed off without difficulty. You can use different tools to apply this color like a paintbrush, sponge, or airbrush. Start by outlining the design and fill in the details after.

The only downside to using this is that they rub off easily and are susceptible to cracking. If you want to create some special effects or airbrush tattoo, you can opt to use alcohol-based paints. They are waterproof so sweat will not affect them. However, they are not rub-proof so avoid touching them.

Using Arm Socks As An Alternative

Using Arm Socks As An Alternative

Have you checked local shops for arm socks? These come in a variety of colors and sizes that can be a good option if you don’t want paint directly on your skin. You can use these socks as they are made with thin, opaque materials and can be considered a hack when it comes to body painting.

Using arm socks with tights can create the illusion of being fully painted. You can paint over the socks to create the additional needed design of your costume. Some even attach fake nails to their gloves to give them an authentic look. Just glue your fake nails and attached them to your finger behind each arm sock. Don’t forget to close and open your palm to make sure your fake nails do not fall off.

Are Mannequin Arms Still Used?

Are Mannequin Arms Still Used?

Does wearing a fake arm a good idea? This depends on which character you are going for. But when it comes to coloring and designing, getting that stuff can give your look a big boost. Some even make and wear fake fingers to make their character more realistic.

Here’s a catch: Did you know that around 6 years ago, cosplayers actually used mannequin arms? Imagine how heavy those body pieces were! Sure they may look real but the fact that each arm is thick and fingers are immobile, you will surely have a hard time carrying it around.

Thank goodness we aren’t using these pieces anymore as much as we did before. A lot of cosplayers have shifted to making foam forearm or wrist made from lighter stuff. Making a wearable piece of the customized arm is essential to your cosplay outfit. It can be a robot or cyborg appendage or a part of armor where your need to make a steel and battle worn ensemble.

One of the famous characters that cosplayers have been trying so hard to represent is Geno or the Demon Cyborg from One Punch Man. Another unique robot arm is from Edward from Full Metal Jacket and also Winter Soldier from Captain America.

Using Plastic and Tape Method

Using Plastic and Tape Method

Have you tried using plastic and tape? The plastic and tape method is often used to measure your arm so you can have one that fits you best.

The first step you need to take is to wrap your hands and arms with plastic bags in several layers. Using scissors, cut through them and paste them together. The inside part with newspaper should be filled to maintain the shape of your model arm. As for your shoulder, repeat the same process but this time use masking tape. You need to use a separating layer since you will remove completion. You can use PVA glue to cover the masking tape layer. To achieve a smoother surface, you can have it polished. To make grooves, draw lines using a stationary knife or scalpel. Cover the form with your PVA. Let it dry thoroughly and there you have it, your arms are done!

Using Foam And Fabric For A Smooth Surface Metallic Arm

Using Foam And Fabric For A Smooth Surface Metallic Arm

Did you know that making lightweight armor using foam sheets and fabric is possible? The advantage of using these is having a lightweight and inexpensive outfit that can be laid flat especially if you need to travel to a con.

Most of the materials that you need in making this piece can be found at home or in art shops. You need some foam sheets, a pallet knife, hot glue, contact cement, and metallic spandex. You need to cut the foam and cloth while making sure the fabric is bigger than the other. Using a pallet knife, grab your contact cement, and coat your fabric generously. Remember not to overdo it.

You also need to coat your foam while making sure it will not spill anywhere especially on the right side of the material. Allow drying for 2-5 minutes then press it onto the fabric. Start stretching it over the foam to make a curve as this will hug your arm when you wear it. Let the piece dry off for about 30 minutes to an hour. Ensure that the edges have extra fabric that you can snip when you start to sew or get the pieces glued.

FAQ On How To Create Fake Arms For Cosplay

FAQ On How To Create Fake Arms For Cosplay

How Many Arms Can I Make?

You can make as many arms as you want, depending on what character you are portraying. This will also depend on the available material that you have. If you have extra straps, foam, wire, cloth, and other materials scattered at home, these can be transformed into a piece. You can make an extra arm project or some wrist accessories. It can also be a good way to practice your arm crafting skill until you master it.

Where Can I Get The Sardonyx Arms From Steven Universe?

If you’re looking to make a rigid Sardonyx arm, this will be easier than you imagined it. However, if you are looking for one that moves in motion around your waist, you can always search online for easy tutorials. Meanwhile, some people use mannequin arms but that is if you have enough strength and endurance to carry them around. You will also need strong support to be able to attach these for longer periods of time without getting your fingers overly exhausted from keeping them in shape. They can also be easily accessed since they are ready-made but they can be expensive. Thus, your best option is to make one using stuffed fabric. Simply make a long tube and stuff it in with batting. To finish, cover it using any colored cloth and make sure the structure is kept in shape whenever you put it on.

Are Cyborg Arms Easy To Make?

With the wide popularity of EVA foam, cyborg arms became easier to make. There are plenty of patterns that you can make use of. There are also a lot of tutorials that you can watch or read that will teach you how to wrap, cut, assemble and paint. With different reference options available, you will be able to get the work done that will cover your elbow all the way to your knuckles. This will also complete your entire cosplay look.

Is The Winter Soldier Arm Better?

This depends on what you prefer. You can make a light arm using gloves and spray it using metallic colors to make it closer to the Winter Soldier’s arm in appearance. You can also make holes so you can attach it better and your thumb can have a tight grip on it. As long as you can carry the weight of the arm piece with ease, you can never go wrong.

After you’ve read our tutorial, you’re all set to try out different designs for that arm costume. Remember to throw in some head accessories to match your arm glove. You can even paint fake bones protruding out of your arm. You see, anything is possible as long as you have the tools and stuff. Then leave the rest to your imagination and creativity.

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Picture of Lisa Hayden-Matthews

Lisa Hayden-Matthews

An avid Skier, bike rider, triathlon enthusiast, amateurish beach volleyball player and nature lover who has never lost a dare! I manage the overall Editorial section for the magazine here and occasionally chip in with my own nature photographs, when required.
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