CT 1977

A look at the top of the eyes. Apparently the pencil I'm using isn't showing well. Any recommendations on a better way to mark?

So, this is the start of my ATA Works armor build. Thank you for reading this thread and even bigger thanks for any tips and advice you can throw my way. Today is great day to start the build as it's forecast to rain all day so indoors is the place to be. Below are the two pieces of my bucket and I've marked along the most prominent cut lines I could see. My plan is to follow the lines VERY conservatively, leaving enough so I can file or shape it back to where its supposed to be. I've poured over You Tube and these forums on the different techniques for cutting. I have to say the teeth are what is giving me the most anxiety, but again, I'll be conservative with the cuts. The lines didn't come out very well in the photos but are pretty clear in person. If you see anything in the lines that look off or wayward, please let me know.

ok, got it. great suggestion still!

Funny story, Andrew. I used to race off-road triathlon & mountain bikes and would build my own bikes. I also travel for my job and was coming out out of a hotel just outside Washington DC and saw a bunch of Army guys admiring my bike. When I came and they asked me about I told them I built and they were impressed. I said its kinda like the Jedi building their own light sabers before going into battle and they all got a good laugh. So, yeah, I understand the idea of getting the satisfaction, but dealing in such fine detail...still intimidating but I'm looking forward to the challenge. I figure by the time I'm done, we'll all be back to normal life and I can join in some "field activities" with the detachment.

Mario, very interesting. I've got a set of those (right & left) from my duct working days (a millenia ago) but that looks like a neutral which would probably be better. Thanks!

yeah, that makes sense. I'll likely go that route now. Thanks!

I'll be starting on my faceplate and helmet this weekend and I've been looking over all the great tutorials so I feel comfortable now with all the help that's out there. My question to everyone is that I've seen a couple ways to make the cuts - 1. exacto knife, score and snap 2. Dremel with the proper cutting attachment. If anyone has a preference and can share, I'd love to read about it and learn from it. Thanks in advance.

That's great info, especially taking my time. I figure it'll be like any new project that once I get started i'll get a bit more comfortable with the process. I'll check out You Tube for sure. I've been mostly looking through all the great tutorials in these forums, they've been really helpful. Thanks!

I haven't yet gone through my entire BBB from ATA Works...I have to say/admit I'm a bit intimidated by it but what see from a cursory perspective is quality. I also have two pairs of ears as reported earlier which is a bit of a relief. I'll be taking my time in working the armor so as to read all the advice. I know I'll be working the bucket first as that seems to be the most intricate.

Thanks, Glen! Kinda figured that was the case but I wanted to ask. I've seen that gaps are expected, even in the movies!!

Thanks, guys...I really appreciate your taking the time to get back to me. Paul, I like that reasoning and makes sense. I'll likely take that route too. Glen, I will definitely go through all those tutorials. A question on the ears - I just had a thought that I have to assume I'm not the first one to think of this but has anyone ever used white bathroom caulk to close up the gaps that inevitably show up? I imagine matching the white would probably be the hardest part.

Hey Paul, I was just looking over your build and was highly impressed...very good detail. I'll be following your build as you have good attention to detail but you've also got some really good input from others. My first question is...did you find it better to fit the facemask to the helmet before addressing the painting, lense installation, etc first. I was thinking of finishing the face first, working on the helmet second, then fitting them together but if its better to fit as you did, I'm good with that. Thoughts?

Another great resource page! Thanks!

Yeah, this is a great resource. I just bookmarked it for quick reference. Thanks!

I've seen a number of new stunt helmet builds out there and I've bookmarked the good ones but if anyone out there has links they would recommend, please share and post here - thanks!

good to hear...on with the build!

okay, so now I'm fumbling through this posting method but starting to get the hang of it. The shot above and below are examples of the bumps and deformities. Almost to the point of obscuring the mold depressions. If this is normal and workable, I'm good with it. Just wanted to bring this up at the start. Thanks, all!

Hey Glen, thanks dude...I had no idea what was going on. I'll get right on it.

I'd like to submit a preapproval photo of my new helmet. Its quite bumpy and a bit more than I've seen on other helmets. The facemask is perfect. Below is a link to my Google drive and the photos of my helmet. I just want to make sure it'll pass for final approval. Thanks! https://drive.google.com/file/d/11XS-1Da-UcyZlPYOuvNS1FG-zWvtKPdb/view?usp=sharing, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Fpto6ajzs51T72OLhwuZEIDn6rGXiC2M/view?usp=sharing, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NNArI4I7uv73vpkQvrXr5v6v9Jl1Hq0L/view?usp=sharing, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gk3rBxtcuT1N-uyeQ2L2TD2Aizo3MMs4/view?usp=sharing, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ikx7iL_Qa-g3Ty_rsZmrRH4j9e4c1_VP/view?usp=sharing, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mZuzLMF31x4jSNgIIHkSgxUlMbmNAxU2/view?usp=sharing, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tYoH8IlVm8iOH5kW98dbzQJwmS5zMIju/view?usp=sharing, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xLzyM2Xwnz6tG9XkS1FaW1BlE0Ixd41Y/view?usp=sharing

yeah, just curious. either way sounds like the way to go.

I did the search and see they some with rubber "grip" palms and some without - any recommendations for either/both?

I was looking at your gloves and they appear to be a type of "cut-resistant" material, can you share some info on them, I'd like to get a pair (could also come in handy shucking oysters). Thanks.

Hi Paul, that's great news and thanks for letting me know and putting my mind to rest. I'm looking forward to my build and especially getting out with the rest of the troopers and having some "Imperial" fun, once this pandemic is in our rear view's. BTW - nice Boba helmet!