ESB Vader helmet.

Twofoot

New Hunter
Thought I'd post a couple of pics of the Esb Vader helmet I did a while ago. It's a modified cast from a Don post.
Although it looks quite simply the paint job is frustratingly difficult. :(
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I am planning to try a vader helmet sometime soon. what kind of paint you use to get that shine like that. can't be spray can.
 
I am planning to try a vader helmet sometime soon. what kind of paint you use to get that shine like that. can't be spray can.

Yeah I did use spray cans. If I remember I think I used duplicolor paints.
If I remember correctly I did 3 coats of primer, sanding with 1000 grit wet and dry between each coat.
Then I think I did the entire thing in black, doing about 5 coats sanding with 1000 grit wet and dry paper between each coat.
Then I masked off and did the grey parts. I think I used gunmetal grey and as it's a metal you can't sand it between coats so do as many really really really light coats as you can.

Then I gave it 5 coats of clear coat. After the last coat of clear has dried you need to sand with 1000 as before, then again with 2000 grit (don't worry as it will look really dull at this point).
Then you need to use a cutting compound to bring back the shine.
Then finally give it several coats of a good quality car wax.

The way to get a perfect finish with spray cans is do loads of thin coats and you MUST sand between each coat. Just take your time and you can get superb results.
 
I figured you used automotive paint. I tried using duplicolor spraypaint on a tie fighter pilot helmet early this year and it was a total disaster. I ended up having a autobody shop paint it.
So you can get a good shine like that by a LOT of sanding.
 
Hey! Amazing work! I was wondering if you might be interested in making and selling me the top dome part? I have a pretty decent Vader helmet but the dome part is all wonky and uneven. I can send you photos of the cup and everything or even send you the helmet itself if you're interested. If you are, how much do you think it'd be?
 
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