Wood alternatives

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LittleShogun

New Member

• Apr 16, 2018

• #1

Hi! So I take commissions to make cosplay props and just recieved two for weapons from RWBY. Crescent Rose and Pennys swords. The catch is theyre going to NYC ComicCon, which explicitly states props can only be made out of foam and cardboard. I was looking to see if anyone had reccomendations on something I can use to provide a stiff backing that won't deteriorate like cardboard does when it gets humid or wet. Thank you for the help!

 

wondersquid

Sr Member

RPF PREMIUM MEMBER

• Apr 16, 2018

• #2

LittleShogun said:

Hi! So I take commissions to make cosplay props and just recieved two for weapons from RWBY. Crescent Rose and Pennys swords. The catch is theyre going to NYC ComicCon, which explicitly states props can only be made out of foam and cardboard. I was looking to see if anyone had reccomendations on something I can use to provide a stiff backing that won't deteriorate like cardboard does when it gets humid or wet. Thank you for the help!

Click to expand...

Try sandwitching Gator board (dense foam core) between outer layers of foam. The outside will be foam, the inside structurally sound. For crescent rose, you'll probably need PVC pipe or wooden dowels.

Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

 

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LittleShogun

New Member

• Apr 17, 2018

• #3

Thanks man I'll give it a shot!

I can't use ether. I'm going try and find a super sturdy cardboard tube and see how that goes.

 

barbquebutt

Active Member

• Apr 18, 2018

• #4

Maybe a cardboard tube with some expanding foam in the middle? Not sure how much strength it'll add, but it could be worth a shot.

 

Froggie

Well-Known Member

• Apr 18, 2018

• #5

LittleShogun said:

Thanks man I'll give it a shot!

I can't use ether. I'm going try and find a super sturdy cardboard tube and see how that goes.

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Look around to see if there are any mail tubes that are the right diameter for your project. They're though as nails, especially if you reinforce them, like barbquebutt said.

If you need a really long piece, cut through one lengthwise and insert it inside two others, joining them together with epoxy or some other waterproof glue.

 

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LittleShogun

New Member

• Apr 18, 2018

• #6

That's guys that's freaking brilliant! I'll try what both of you suggested, that solves one of the major issues!

 

Froggie

Well-Known Member

• Apr 19, 2018

• #7

Is the other issue the humidity?

I'd wager that you could find some kind of varnish or top coat that's waterproof, which you can simply spray on as you go. Granted, I've never worked with problems like high humidity, but there has to be ways to shield things from it.


Here's an instructable for cardboard lumber that might help you as well.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Cardboard-Lumber/

Good luck with the builds!

 

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LittleShogun

New Member

• Apr 19, 2018

• #8

It's not a huge concern, however living in New York, our weather is unpredictable. Your right about the varnish though. I could probably hit it with a nice coat of Polycrylic. Thanks for the help I appreciate it!