armour – Travian Designs

About four years ago I was studying Librarianship and Record Keeping, and for our prac placement we were to create a project for display. I figured I could put my costume making skills to work here and show the students visiting the school library how foam costumes are designed and assembled. It was a big success, the kids really liked me and spent as much time helping me with this project as they were allowed. They even made a petition to bring me on as a full time staff member. I would have loved that but sadly they hired someone else for the opening they had.

Galactus ended up being the perfect choice, I was looking at all sorts of characters that young teens might like and it all seemed too complicated. Where as Kirby’s classic design consists of a lot of simple shapes. It came together easily and it attracted a lot of attention. Continue reading →

May 4, 2020May 4, 2020 by traviandesigns Categories: CostumesTags: armour, cosplay, costume, foam, galactus, marvel Leave a comment

Another one from the archives, in 2013 I made my first attempt at foam armour. The Cyberman was a great project for a beginner as it is all incredibly simple shapes. I think the only real mistake I made was not buying good quality thin foam, those areas deteriorated almost instantly. Otherwise the latex paint was very resistant. It was a lot of fun walking around in character all day and interacting with the kids who were so excited to see me (or attack me with their sonic screwdrivers).

Wearing a costume that fully conceals you is a fascinating experience, when people can’t see your face and when you resemble the character well enough, you disappear, all they see is the Cyberman and they are more naturally inclined to play along with the fantasy. I have been looking for an excuse to do full body armour again for years, and I think I might just do that with Isaac from The Orville, perhaps some time next year… If I don’t get distracted by other costumes.

Kroton was an obscure companion for the Eighth Doctor in the comics, a rare Cyberman who retained his humanity. The only thing that made him physically distinct was a black face plate, which I incorporated in this costume.