Hello! This is actually my first post here, I've been lurking for a while but finally created an account today to share something I’ve been slowly working on since last October. This is a full, handmade samurai-inspired armor set I built from EVA foam, paracord, fabric, and glue. No templates, no prior experience, just a lot of experimenting and learning as I went.
I came across a video from SKS Props and thought, “You know what, maybe I can try this.” I started with basic materials and tools, followed some tutorials, and gradually pieced everything together over the course of a few months, working on it for a few hours every couple of weeks. Some parts I built, tore apart, and rebuilt. Others I left a little rough to give it that worn, battle-used feel.
This set isn’t historically accurate, intentionally so. Out of respect, I chose not to include any clan markings or crests because I didn’t want to misrepresent anything culturally. My main inspiration was Ghost of Tsushima, and I tried to channel that stylized, cinematic armor aesthetic into something that could be used for cosplay or display (not LARP or combat).
The build has been a total love-hate journey. Foam can be frustrating, but it’s also forgiving in the right ways. I learned how to layer and shape it, how to secure things with paracord lacing, and how to build something that’s both solid-looking and wearable. I’m 5’11”, 200 lbs, and the sides are adjustable enough to comfortably fit up to 230–240 lbs.
I know this isn't perfect, not even close, but I don't think it's terrible either. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished as an amateur, especially for a first armor build. I also had fun placing it into a few digital mockup backgrounds (like cherry blossom fields and battle scenes) to give it some extra drama.
I’d love to hear your feedback, whether it’s praise, constructive critique, or suggestions for improvement. I’ve already got ideas for what I’d do differently next time, and seeing the work on here has been incredibly inspiring.
I came across a video from SKS Props and thought, “You know what, maybe I can try this.” I started with basic materials and tools, followed some tutorials, and gradually pieced everything together over the course of a few months, working on it for a few hours every couple of weeks. Some parts I built, tore apart, and rebuilt. Others I left a little rough to give it that worn, battle-used feel.
This set isn’t historically accurate, intentionally so. Out of respect, I chose not to include any clan markings or crests because I didn’t want to misrepresent anything culturally. My main inspiration was Ghost of Tsushima, and I tried to channel that stylized, cinematic armor aesthetic into something that could be used for cosplay or display (not LARP or combat).
The build has been a total love-hate journey. Foam can be frustrating, but it’s also forgiving in the right ways. I learned how to layer and shape it, how to secure things with paracord lacing, and how to build something that’s both solid-looking and wearable. I’m 5’11”, 200 lbs, and the sides are adjustable enough to comfortably fit up to 230–240 lbs.
I know this isn't perfect, not even close, but I don't think it's terrible either. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished as an amateur, especially for a first armor build. I also had fun placing it into a few digital mockup backgrounds (like cherry blossom fields and battle scenes) to give it some extra drama.
I’d love to hear your feedback, whether it’s praise, constructive critique, or suggestions for improvement. I’ve already got ideas for what I’d do differently next time, and seeing the work on here has been incredibly inspiring.
