New to prop building - Pointers?

Soooo....I need help.


I'm fairly new to prop building and was wondering how I should start to build an IM helmet. I know you can start with the Pepakura files and resin them, but after that I'm lost. The electronics aspect of any build is no problem for me, I only need help with the building. (Fiber glassing, painting, etc.)

Before anyone comments and says so, I have UTFSE and scoured the Internet from high-to-low. I know it may seem troublesome to help a noob out, but I can't seem to find a tutorial anywhere. Any help would be MUCH appreciated.

There are plenty of tutorials out there, man! I would suggest Stealth's tutorials though TheHeroTutorials - YouTube

there are also some good tutorials on youtube

I would also suggest starting with something other than an Iron Man helmet. I know it has the "wow factor", but it really is a difficult thing to start with. Start with something smaller, less detailed. Build your skillset and work your way up to the helmet. You will refine your skills, making the end result that much better, and also won't discourage you from messing up and not wanting to continue

Also, depending on the version of helmet. The number of smooth curves makes it harder to work without building up with some form of body filler. Then taken down with sandpaper or files... Or other such items till its relatively smooth... Hope that helps a wee bit.

I know in my tutorials i show how to make the Iron Man helmet, mostly because it is the most popular/ famous piece for new builders to build, but it is a difficult piece to build. check my site in the link and check out my site if you need help getting started.

Also, I would suggest making sure you are getting advice from people who have actually finished a couple of projects.

Well said Shades.

I would also say that if you have your heart set on making an Iron Man helmet, do it! Just don't get bogged down on details you don't need to worry about yet...like electronics.

Especially if you're new, it's easy to get bogged down by a BIG project, so simplify it to get your feet wet. You might start with the goal of making a 2 piece helmet (no removable faceplate) and hone your skills that way.

Then once you've built up the skills necessary, either modify your first build or start a new one and build NEW skills on top of the ones you just built up.

Trying to plan such a complex build up front is a great way to increase the likelihood that you'll never finish.

Good luck.

-Nick

Thanks guys, I watched the HeroTutorials and think Im ready to start on my first project. I might start with a Master Chief two-piece helmet, since it has no movable parts. Either that or an Arc Reactor.

TheNickFox said:

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I would also say that if you have your heart set on making an Iron Man helmet, do it! Just don't get bogged down on details you don't need to worry about yet...like electronics.

Especially if you're new, it's easy to get bogged down by a BIG project, so simplify it to get your feet wet. You might start with the goal of making a 2 piece helmet (no removable faceplate) and hone your skills that way.

Then once you've built up the skills necessary, either modify your first build or start a new one and build NEW skills on top of the ones you just built up.

Trying to plan such a complex build up front is a great way to increase the likelihood that you'll never finish.

Good luck.

-Nick

+1 on this. The boards are full of newbs that talk a big game about fancy accessories and never even get close to building a suit. Start small.

As i first came here on this site i thought: "I can never make that. I'll leave it to the pros." Months later is started out small and i'm trying to make a Paper Pep Mjolnir.
Because i'm a huge batman fan, was planning on making a Batman Cowl in foam. But realised that my skill level isn't sufficient enough to make it. What i'm planning to do is like a few people said above is: Start out small. Try making other things first with a straight parts, Try cutting 45° angles, bends, etc etc.

Like was stated above, stealths tuts one theherotutorials are excellent. Stealth is a true pro!
Also check out james' site, xrobots.co.uk. He is another top tier builder that is willing to share his skills.
I am a complete noob to building and in no way an expert, but I am realizing failures are just stepping stones to success. My pieces are getting better every day and dang it, I will come back to my iron man helmet one day soon! Haha good luck and just be patient and have fun!!