Hoth Han Solo Costume Build

So the Hoth Boots arrived from China. I was unhappy about the zip that they had at the back! No idea why they had that. This was a shame as it was (I thought) my only option. When I was attempting to return them - to China - I saw another listing for what looked like the same boots only a different photo. On further investigation into the photos it was obvious they were nearly identical but didnt have the zip! So I ordered these and they arrived in 10 days!! I was really pleased with them! I did an unboxing review here : But soon after came the realisation that there were inaccuracies that I could do something about. I knew these would be a base for whatever I used. Whether I used these boots as a pattern or modified them I didnt know, but for £38 they were worth the punt. So when they arrived and were pretty decent I decided to modify them. This is the aim : Details that are not easy to see include : Different colour mocassin bottom to the grey leg g

I forgot to add some photos of the end result. This required scoring a line with a pic (I used a compass!) and then after using the groove with my sharp dremel grinding bit to do a groove. I also countersunk a hole in the middle for the release button. It was really hard to get a clean groove as the grain in the metal just creates loads of little bumps which are solid. This is the best I could do without grinding it out completely. Once weathered this will be a lot more subtle.

Well this was super exciting!! I did some research into 'painting' a proper metal (Alu) replica weapon... and before painting it I found some information about using 'Aluminium Black'. I've made a video (Uploaded to YouTube) After a few coats and being left for 10 mins this happens :  So you then rub it down with a little gun oil or something and a rag, and it changes completely. This was really simple, it cost me £13 and no spraying/sanding etc. Its got a real authentic metal feel and look to it now and the weathering just requires some light sanding down to the metal.