Difference between revisions of "Make a Darth Vader Costume"
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| − | The world was first introduced to the Dark Lord of the Sith, otherwise known as Darth Vader, in 1977.<ref>http://www.newyorker.com/books/page-turner/crazy-history-star-wars</ref> Since then, this super galactic villain (and father of Luke and Leia) has become a pop-culture icon.<ref>http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=19141349</ref><ref>http://www.designer-daily.com/the-darkest-lord-25-spine-chilling-darth-vader-fan-art-23096</ref> Whether it's for a costume party, Halloween, or to impress your friends, Darth Vader costumes are always a hit. You can save money, and create a one-of-a-kind design, by making a Darth Vader costume and accessories at home. | + | The world was first introduced to the Dark Lord of the Sith, otherwise known as Darth Vader, in 1977.<ref name="rf1">http://www.newyorker.com/books/page-turner/crazy-history-star-wars</ref> Since then, this super galactic villain (and father of Luke and Leia) has become a pop-culture icon.<ref name="rf2">http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=19141349</ref><ref name="rf3">http://www.designer-daily.com/the-darkest-lord-25-spine-chilling-darth-vader-fan-art-23096</ref> Whether it's for a costume party, Halloween, or to impress your friends, Darth Vader costumes are always a hit. You can save money, and create a one-of-a-kind design, by making a Darth Vader costume and accessories at home. |
[[Category:Book and Movie Character Costumes]] | [[Category:Book and Movie Character Costumes]] | ||
== Steps == | == Steps == | ||
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#*Think about where you will be wearing the costume when selecting clothing items. Purchase heavy, bulkier clothes if you plan on wearing it outside as a Halloween costume. For a costume party, look for cotton items that are thin and loose to help keep you comfortable indoors. | #*Think about where you will be wearing the costume when selecting clothing items. Purchase heavy, bulkier clothes if you plan on wearing it outside as a Halloween costume. For a costume party, look for cotton items that are thin and loose to help keep you comfortable indoors. | ||
#*If you are planning on adding armor or padding (e.g. football pads) underneath your clothes to give you a muscular look, consider buying things in a size or two larger than you normally wear. | #*If you are planning on adding armor or padding (e.g. football pads) underneath your clothes to give you a muscular look, consider buying things in a size or two larger than you normally wear. | ||
| − | #Make or buy boots and gloves. You will need thick black gloves and boots. As a result of his deformities, Darth Vader kept his body covered-up at all times, including his hands and feet.<ref>http://www.theforce.net/swtc/injuries.html#head</ref> Motorcycle gloves and boots work very well because they are big, thick, and typically black. Large leather or pleather gloves, and/or cheap black snow boots work as well. You can also make your own "boot" covers to wear over your shoes. Here are the directions: | + | #Make or buy boots and gloves. You will need thick black gloves and boots. As a result of his deformities, Darth Vader kept his body covered-up at all times, including his hands and feet.<ref name="rf4">http://www.theforce.net/swtc/injuries.html#head</ref> Motorcycle gloves and boots work very well because they are big, thick, and typically black. Large leather or pleather gloves, and/or cheap black snow boots work as well. You can also make your own "boot" covers to wear over your shoes. Here are the directions: |
| − | #*You can sew your own boot covers using pleather material, 1/4 inch elastic, and a sewing machine.<ref>http://www.christinetrevino.com/2012/10/22/diy-super-hero-boots/</ref> Make a pattern by tracing your shoe and pants from the bottom of the sole to your knee. Do this for your right and left leg. | + | #*You can sew your own boot covers using pleather material, 1/4 inch elastic, and a sewing machine.<ref name="rf5">http://www.christinetrevino.com/2012/10/22/diy-super-hero-boots/</ref> Make a pattern by tracing your shoe and pants from the bottom of the sole to your knee. Do this for your right and left leg. |
#*Trace the pattern onto your fabric, making sure to include the width of the shoe at the toes and heels, and adding fabric as needed. Leave a 1/2 inch of fabric along one side for a seam. Do this twice for each side and then cut-out your tracings. | #*Trace the pattern onto your fabric, making sure to include the width of the shoe at the toes and heels, and adding fabric as needed. Leave a 1/2 inch of fabric along one side for a seam. Do this twice for each side and then cut-out your tracings. | ||
#*Sew the two halves together for each boot, only sewing along the sides and keeping the top and bottom open. | #*Sew the two halves together for each boot, only sewing along the sides and keeping the top and bottom open. | ||
#*Cut four pieces of elastic that are the same length as the bottom of your boot. Place one end of the elastic near the right seam and the opposite end next to the left seam. Secure with flat pins and machine stitch elastic to the bottom of your boot. Put the boots on by pulling them over your shoes and pants. | #*Cut four pieces of elastic that are the same length as the bottom of your boot. Place one end of the elastic near the right seam and the opposite end next to the left seam. Secure with flat pins and machine stitch elastic to the bottom of your boot. Put the boots on by pulling them over your shoes and pants. | ||
===Making a Darth Vader Helmet=== | ===Making a Darth Vader Helmet=== | ||
| − | #Find or purchase supplies for a paper mache helmet. Paper mache is a great for making a helmet that is 3-dimensional, hollow, durable and light-weight.<ref>http://www.dltk-kids.com/type/how_to_paper_mache.htm</ref> While you can always buy a Darth Vader helmet from a toy store or costume store, making one from paper mache is easy and fun.<ref>http://www.jgoode.com/the-making-of-darth-vader/</ref> You will need: | + | #Find or purchase supplies for a paper mache helmet. Paper mache is a great for making a helmet that is 3-dimensional, hollow, durable and light-weight.<ref name="rf6">http://www.dltk-kids.com/type/how_to_paper_mache.htm</ref> While you can always buy a Darth Vader helmet from a toy store or costume store, making one from paper mache is easy and fun.<ref name="rf7">http://www.jgoode.com/the-making-of-darth-vader/</ref> You will need: |
#*Newspaper | #*Newspaper | ||
#*Paper mache mix (1 part flour to 5 parts water) | #*Paper mache mix (1 part flour to 5 parts water) | ||
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#*Black spray paint | #*Black spray paint | ||
#*High gloss spray varnish | #*High gloss spray varnish | ||
| − | #Make the paper mache paste. Mix together 1 part flour to 5 cups water in a Saucepan. Boil for three minutes and let cool. This method produces an even, smooth paste.<ref | + | #Make the paper mache paste. Mix together 1 part flour to 5 cups water in a Saucepan. Boil for three minutes and let cool. This method produces an even, smooth paste.<ref name="rf6" /> |
#*You can also add equal parts water and flour, and then stir together in a mixing bowl. | #*You can also add equal parts water and flour, and then stir together in a mixing bowl. | ||
#*Do not add salt to the mixture as it makes the paper mache difficult to mold. | #*Do not add salt to the mixture as it makes the paper mache difficult to mold. | ||
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#*Allow yourself extra fabric, about 2.5-3 inches on two sides, for hemming. | #*Allow yourself extra fabric, about 2.5-3 inches on two sides, for hemming. | ||
#*Fabric is usually sold by the yard. | #*Fabric is usually sold by the yard. | ||
| − | #Select a pattern and purchase supplies. You can find patterns for a basic super hero cape online or at a fabric store.<ref>http://members.optusnet.com.au/dewar_s/Vader/OuterCape.htm</ref><ref>http://www.nancysnotions.com/text/pdf/SuperHeroCape.pdf</ref> If you don't know how to use a sewing machine, there are a variety of cape designs available for different skill levels. Additionally, Darth Vader's cape is different from a standard super hero cape in that it doesn't "swoosh". You want to use heavy fabric to weigh the cape down. For a basic cape design, you will need: | + | #Select a pattern and purchase supplies. You can find patterns for a basic super hero cape online or at a fabric store.<ref name="rf8">http://members.optusnet.com.au/dewar_s/Vader/OuterCape.htm</ref><ref name="rf9">http://www.nancysnotions.com/text/pdf/SuperHeroCape.pdf</ref> If you don't know how to use a sewing machine, there are a variety of cape designs available for different skill levels. Additionally, Darth Vader's cape is different from a standard super hero cape in that it doesn't "swoosh". You want to use heavy fabric to weigh the cape down. For a basic cape design, you will need: |
#*At least 1 yard heavy black fabric (this is to make a child's costume, adults will need more based on height and weight) | #*At least 1 yard heavy black fabric (this is to make a child's costume, adults will need more based on height and weight) | ||
#*At least 1 yard additional fabric if you decide to include a lining. | #*At least 1 yard additional fabric if you decide to include a lining. | ||
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#Draw the pattern onto the cape and then cut it out. Using chalk or an erasable fabric marking pen, transfer the pattern from the paper onto the fabric. Adjust the pattern to accommodate your measurements (height from nape of neck to floor, and width of outstretched arms). Measure the width at the base of your neck to determine the collar size, adding several extra inches for comfort. When finished, cut-out the fabric. | #Draw the pattern onto the cape and then cut it out. Using chalk or an erasable fabric marking pen, transfer the pattern from the paper onto the fabric. Adjust the pattern to accommodate your measurements (height from nape of neck to floor, and width of outstretched arms). Measure the width at the base of your neck to determine the collar size, adding several extra inches for comfort. When finished, cut-out the fabric. | ||
#*Repeat this step if you want to add a lining to your cape. | #*Repeat this step if you want to add a lining to your cape. | ||
| − | #*Alternatively, you can draw, cut-out, and then sew two semi-circles together.<ref | + | #*Alternatively, you can draw, cut-out, and then sew two semi-circles together.<ref name="rf8" /> Fold the fabric in half and pin together. Double your neck-to-floor measurement and mark it on the fabric, leaving about 2 inches from the base of the semi-circle to the edge of the material. Use a piece of chalk attached to a string to draw a perfect arch. Cut the material out. In the center, draw and cut-out a smaller semi-circle for your neck. Use a sewing machine to stitch the two halves together. |
| − | #Hem the collar and bottom of the cape and add velcro. Use a sewing machine to hem the collar and bottom of the cape using a simple double-fold hem.<ref>http://howtosew.com/blog/sewing-basics/sew-simple-double-fold-hem</ref> Fold the fabric over about 1/2 inches, and then fold it again another 1/2 inches. Secure with straight pins. Sew the hem about 1/8 inch from the second folded edge. When done, flatten the hem with an iron. | + | #Hem the collar and bottom of the cape and add velcro. Use a sewing machine to hem the collar and bottom of the cape using a simple double-fold hem.<ref name="rf10">http://howtosew.com/blog/sewing-basics/sew-simple-double-fold-hem</ref> Fold the fabric over about 1/2 inches, and then fold it again another 1/2 inches. Secure with straight pins. Sew the hem about 1/8 inch from the second folded edge. When done, flatten the hem with an iron. |
#*When taking initial measurements for your cape, you want to add several extra inches for a hem. Hemming your cape will make it more durable and prevent the edges from fraying. | #*When taking initial measurements for your cape, you want to add several extra inches for a hem. Hemming your cape will make it more durable and prevent the edges from fraying. | ||
#*Secure the collar together by sewing or gluing a 2-3 inch piece of velcro on each side. If your cape is heavy, you might need a slightly larger piece of velcro. | #*Secure the collar together by sewing or gluing a 2-3 inch piece of velcro on each side. If your cape is heavy, you might need a slightly larger piece of velcro. | ||
===Putting the Costume Together=== | ===Putting the Costume Together=== | ||
#Give yourself 10 to 15 minutes to get into the costume. Try everything on separately first to make sure it fits. Make any necessary adjustments before putting your costume on. Make sure you have everything you need to become Darth Vader. This includes: padding (optional), helmet, black long-sleeve shirt and pants, black cape, black gloves, and black boots. | #Give yourself 10 to 15 minutes to get into the costume. Try everything on separately first to make sure it fits. Make any necessary adjustments before putting your costume on. Make sure you have everything you need to become Darth Vader. This includes: padding (optional), helmet, black long-sleeve shirt and pants, black cape, black gloves, and black boots. | ||
| − | #Put padding on first (optional). While padding is not necessary, it adds bulk and gives the impression of muscles. You can use old football or hockey gear, such as shoulder and chest pads, shin guards, and/or an athletic girdle. To avoid chafing, you should wear a t-shirt and briefs under the pads.<ref>http://www.brattleborohockey.org/Page.asp?n=90253&org=brattleborohockey.org</ref> If wearing one, put the athletic girdle or shapewear on first.<ref>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/18/AR2010081804365.html?sid=ST2010081805708</ref> Next, position the shoulder pads so they are comfortable and have someone help you secure them in the front and back.<ref>http://www.riddell.com/riddell/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Shoulder-Pad-Fitting_01.pdf</ref> Finally, tie or strap-on knee of shin guards. | + | #Put padding on first (optional). While padding is not necessary, it adds bulk and gives the impression of muscles. You can use old football or hockey gear, such as shoulder and chest pads, shin guards, and/or an athletic girdle. To avoid chafing, you should wear a t-shirt and briefs under the pads.<ref name="rf11">http://www.brattleborohockey.org/Page.asp?n=90253&org=brattleborohockey.org</ref> If wearing one, put the athletic girdle or shapewear on first.<ref name="rf12">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/18/AR2010081804365.html?sid=ST2010081805708</ref> Next, position the shoulder pads so they are comfortable and have someone help you secure them in the front and back.<ref name="rf13">http://www.riddell.com/riddell/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Shoulder-Pad-Fitting_01.pdf</ref> Finally, tie or strap-on knee of shin guards. |
#*Pads can be bulky and make it difficult or uncomfortable to move around in. If you are not used to them, practice wearing them around the house for a few hours over several days. | #*Pads can be bulky and make it difficult or uncomfortable to move around in. If you are not used to them, practice wearing them around the house for a few hours over several days. | ||
#*Use duct tape (attached to clothing - not skin) to help secure pads that feel loose or shift too much. | #*Use duct tape (attached to clothing - not skin) to help secure pads that feel loose or shift too much. | ||
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#Tuck your pants into the boots and put on your gloves. Pull your boots up over your pants or tuck your pants into your boots. If necessary, lace-up and tie your boots before putting on your gloves. If you made boot covers, you can simply pull them over your sneakers. Try walking around. Stamp your feet when you walk so you look more intimidating. | #Tuck your pants into the boots and put on your gloves. Pull your boots up over your pants or tuck your pants into your boots. If necessary, lace-up and tie your boots before putting on your gloves. If you made boot covers, you can simply pull them over your sneakers. Try walking around. Stamp your feet when you walk so you look more intimidating. | ||
#Add the cape and helmet. Tie or Velcro your cape around your neck. Adjust it so it is comfortable and not too tight. For the final touch, put on your helmet. Make sure your helmet fits properly and you can comfortably see and breathe. Try walking around your house to get a feel for the costume before going out. | #Add the cape and helmet. Tie or Velcro your cape around your neck. Adjust it so it is comfortable and not too tight. For the final touch, put on your helmet. Make sure your helmet fits properly and you can comfortably see and breathe. Try walking around your house to get a feel for the costume before going out. | ||
| − | #Add a lightsaber or make your own. If you have a lightsaber, carry it around by tucking it into a belt. You can also make your own lightsaber using a foam pool noodle.<ref>http://family.disney.com/crafts/how-to-make-a-star-wars-inspired-lightsaber-from-pool-noodles</ref> Use a knife to cut the pool noodle in half. Wrap silver duct tape about a quarter of the way around one of the ends. Finally, use black electrical tape to wrap three horizontal rings around the top of the silver tape, and two vertical strips between the horizontal rings and bottom of the silver tape. | + | #Add a lightsaber or make your own. If you have a lightsaber, carry it around by tucking it into a belt. You can also make your own lightsaber using a foam pool noodle.<ref name="rf14">http://family.disney.com/crafts/how-to-make-a-star-wars-inspired-lightsaber-from-pool-noodles</ref> Use a knife to cut the pool noodle in half. Wrap silver duct tape about a quarter of the way around one of the ends. Finally, use black electrical tape to wrap three horizontal rings around the top of the silver tape, and two vertical strips between the horizontal rings and bottom of the silver tape. |
| − | #Make your own control panel. Darth Vader wore a control panel on his chest that monitored his vital signs and bodily functions.<ref>http://articles.latimes.com/2005/may/22/entertainment/ca-vadergraphic22</ref> You can complete your costume by painting or spray-painting a cardboard box black. Next, create buttons and switches by either drawing them on with different colored metallic paint pens, or gluing buttons, beads, game pieces, or toothpaste caps to the front of the box. Use black duct tape to attach the control panel to your shirt, or tie black yarn or rope to each side and wear around your neck . | + | #Make your own control panel. Darth Vader wore a control panel on his chest that monitored his vital signs and bodily functions.<ref name="rf15">http://articles.latimes.com/2005/may/22/entertainment/ca-vadergraphic22</ref> You can complete your costume by painting or spray-painting a cardboard box black. Next, create buttons and switches by either drawing them on with different colored metallic paint pens, or gluing buttons, beads, game pieces, or toothpaste caps to the front of the box. Use black duct tape to attach the control panel to your shirt, or tie black yarn or rope to each side and wear around your neck . |
| − | #Breathe deeply and make rasping noises. Darth Vader was equipped with mechanical lungs and a ventilator following his near-fatal battle with Obi-Wan Kenobi. As a result, his breathes are very loud and raspy. In Episodes Iv, V, and VI, Darth Vader was voiced by the actor James Earl Jones. Despite his heavy breathing, his voice is deep and commanding.<ref>http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/10/09/james-earl-jones-star-wars-rebels_n_5962798.html</ref> Prepare yourself by watching the movies in which Darth Vader appears. These include: Star Wars Episodes III, IV, V, and VI.<ref>http://www.starwars.com/databank/darth-vader</ref> Record yourself talking like Darth Vader. When in full costume, practice walking, talking and moving like him in front of a mirror. | + | #Breathe deeply and make rasping noises. Darth Vader was equipped with mechanical lungs and a ventilator following his near-fatal battle with Obi-Wan Kenobi. As a result, his breathes are very loud and raspy. In Episodes Iv, V, and VI, Darth Vader was voiced by the actor James Earl Jones. Despite his heavy breathing, his voice is deep and commanding.<ref name="rf16">http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/10/09/james-earl-jones-star-wars-rebels_n_5962798.html</ref> Prepare yourself by watching the movies in which Darth Vader appears. These include: Star Wars Episodes III, IV, V, and VI.<ref name="rf17">http://www.starwars.com/databank/darth-vader</ref> Record yourself talking like Darth Vader. When in full costume, practice walking, talking and moving like him in front of a mirror. |
== Video == | == Video == | ||
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*Make sure you have all of your costume pieces stored together in a safe place so as not to lose anything. | *Make sure you have all of your costume pieces stored together in a safe place so as not to lose anything. | ||
*Most importantly, have fun and be safe! | *Most importantly, have fun and be safe! | ||
| − | *A helmet with a built in voice changer can be fun. You can also download an app on your phone that makes you sound like Darth Vader.<ref>http://www.macstories.net/iphone/voices-for-iphone-available-finally-i-can-use-that-darth-vader-mask-again/</ref> | + | *A helmet with a built in voice changer can be fun. You can also download an app on your phone that makes you sound like Darth Vader.<ref name="rf18">http://www.macstories.net/iphone/voices-for-iphone-available-finally-i-can-use-that-darth-vader-mask-again/</ref> |
== Warnings == | == Warnings == | ||
