make armor

How I did it: I'm making some pieces of medieval armour for some years now. Since last year though, I only received chainmail orders, and even if it's easy to make, the time it take made me really bored about all this. But I finally pierced throught these orders and received someone who wanted a Wisby coat of plates. This is quite a simple armour, but the fact that I would use my hammer again was enough for me!
And even more, since now, I alway had a problem with schedule on my orders; I was alway late, very late. And this customer gave me a great chalenge, asking me to finish the armour in a week. And I did it!
I think the plate is fine and confortable (as much as it can be). The point is that it put me in again! I already have a new order, and I'm improving my website to have more!

Lessons & tips: When you want to get started, ask yourself what you want. Use the internet, your friends, video games...
When you have a good idea, start making drawings, and don't be shy!
Then, look at the picture that define what you want and ask yourself: Is it realistic? By that, I mean: how will it get attached to me, do my morphology fit in it, can it possibly hurt me or a friend... But do not restrain yourself by what you think you're capable of making. You will alway find parts that you are not already able to do, but by working on it, you'll find the way to get through it.
Finally, if you have any references, ask another person about you're plans. If possible, refer to an armouring book or email a blacksmith.
After that, gather your tools and start! Do not procrastinate on these project, they tend to vanish quickly.
Good work!

Resources: Techniques of Medieval Armour Reproduction, The 14th Century, Brian R.Price.
Email me or a known blacksmith!

Mar 07, 03:52PM PST | 0 comments | 1 cheer