Copper plating is actually fairly straightforward! I've done a bit of it for some jewelry pieces in the past. Here's a decent tutorial:
Copper Plating
http://www.instructables.com/id/EBYKQ12HSM50K0Q/?lang=en
I haven't tried this, but if the piece doesn't need to be large or sturdy, you could...
Buy quality safety equipment that you think looks cool. You'll be more prone to wear it (or won't mind wearing it as much) if it makes you feel like badass!
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