Whether you are gearing up for a convention or adding to your armor cabinet, the massive scale of Warhammer 40,000 weaponry presents a fun crafting challenge. Prop maker Steve from SKS Props demonstrates how to build a convention-safe, lightweight Absolver Bolt Pistol using High-Density (HD) foam. He also encourages you to join him in the game.
The video below demonstrates the foam fabrication, carving, heat-detailing, and paint wash techniques to make this ultimate prop in this Warhammer tutorial
After you are done building it, be sure to follow along with him to get the battle worn look he does so well. The basic breakdown of his paint job in this Warhammer tutorial is:
- Sealing: Spray the entire assembly with multiple light coats of Plasti-Dip to seal the foam and smooth out the look.
- Base Colors: Apply Rust-Oleum Hammered Metal spray paint to the barrels, grip, and lower metallic housing. Coat the top receiver in a red oxide primer.
- Black Wash Slurry: Slather a heavy wash of acrylic Mars Black diluted with water across the entire prop. Work it into every crevice with a mop brush, then dab away excess with a wet paper towel to leave dark grime in deep recesses.
- Drybrushing & Highlights: Drybrush an opaque red acrylic across the main upper casing to make the armor plating pop. Stipple iridescent rich silver paint onto edges, skulls, and corner seams to replicate chipped paint and exposed bright metal.
And if you are looking for a place to wear your new armor then check out:
To see what cosplay conventions are coming up
be sure to check out our Cosplay Convention List!
