In this class, we will work through the process of turning a raw 3D print into a screen-accurate prop, featuring a selection of daggers from your favorite fantasy media. You will learn the essentials for creating props and armor for cosplay, including techniques for smoothing 3D printed parts, creating a variety of surface finishes, and weathering that looks battle-worn. This course is designed to be accessible to complete cosplay beginners, and the methods presented will not require learning any specialized equipment.

This course does not cover 3D modeling or 3D printing. Some cosplay-focused tips and tricks will be provided in the course handout, but for anyone interested in learning more about the 3D printing process as a whole, be sure to check out the Makerspace’s 3D printing resources!

For this course you will select from the following designs.

The base components will be pre-printed prior to Class 1:

Format: Four 2-hour classes over the course of four weeks.

Course Schedule:

Class 1: Introduction and Begin Prep

• Introductions
• Show and tell of cosplay armor and props and basic overview of cosplay as a maker
• Review of course content
• Select projects and distribute 3D prints; briefly discuss 3D printing in the Makerspace
• Demonstrate and work on print cleanup and Bondo filler application
• Demonstrate sanding while Bondo sets
• Sand down Bondo
• Demonstrate and work on spray filler primer application

Class 2: Filling, Sanding, and Priming

• Recap of last class
• Demonstration and discussion of sanding and primer stages w/ examples
• Sanding
• Discuss final “dusting” primer layer
• Final primer coat

Class 3: Painting

• Recap of last class
• Overview of different types of metallic paint finishes
• Selection of metallic paint(s) and first coat
• Demonstrate and discuss detailing
• Detailing
• Second coat on metallics

Class 4: Assembly and Weathering

• Recap of last class
• Overview and demonstration of assembly
• Gluing and assembly
• Demonstration of beginner-friendly weathering techniques
• Weathering
• Closing, distribute packaging for the daggers and printed handout booklet

About the Instructor: This class is taught by Maizie Seltz. Maizie is an avid cosplayer and cosplay maker who loves all things sci-fi and fantasy! She's worked with costuming and cosplay for the past 7 years and my pride and joy is my Mandalorian armor. I'm going to RPI this fall for Mechanical Engineering. Follow her on Instagram: @maizie_s

Age: there are no age restrictions to the class. Please read carefully the disclaimers and guidelines

What to wear: At RMM, you must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing (100% cotton), long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Participants should wear clothes that they are OK with getting messy. The dust and paint are inevitable!