differentiation In reply to TristanCosplay [2013-08-10 19:45:54 +0000 UTC]

Thanks very much - that's very kind of you

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TristanCosplay In reply to differentiation [2013-08-10 21:40:35 +0000 UTC]

I really mean it! If those were up for sale, (if I had the money for it), I would be a regular!

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differentiation In reply to duperhero [2013-01-23 23:58:17 +0000 UTC]

Thank you

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duperhero In reply to differentiation [2013-01-24 10:06:43 +0000 UTC]

You're welcome!

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differentiation In reply to Roostrking [2013-01-23 23:57:26 +0000 UTC]

Thank you very much

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differentiation In reply to Lazytroll [2011-09-27 12:08:03 +0000 UTC]

Thank you very much for your kind comments! Very much appreciated. I'm glad you have enjoyed my gallery.

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Lazytroll In reply to differentiation [2011-09-27 12:11:11 +0000 UTC]

it is, it is! I'm still watching your photos, the costume is great and so full of amazing details

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differentiation In reply to Lazytroll [2011-09-27 13:33:20 +0000 UTC]

I'm glad to hear it's being appreciated ^_^

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differentiation In reply to Fragrach [2011-09-27 12:00:32 +0000 UTC]

Thank you.
And you're welcome regarding the build process - I'm happy to share

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Fragrach In reply to differentiation [2011-09-27 12:23:26 +0000 UTC]

Not everyone is that generous to show how everything is made.
Most probably I'm going to show this to people, who want to play something similar in Larp...with a few additional comments concerning Larp safety.

May I ask, are you goingt to play something similar in Larp or just stay human?

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differentiation In reply to Fragrach [2011-09-27 13:32:30 +0000 UTC]

I wouldn't have learned how to make fursuits in the first place is people weren't generous with their infomation. I'm simply returning the favour, with my own observations/changes.

I am intending to play some sort of horned beastman in LARP in the future. Antelope or goat

Again, as you said, there are some additional features/changes that need to be made to make something like the oryx costume more suitable for LARP - things like better visibility, and soft foam horns.
The oryx costume is just the first generation though - there's lots left to improve upon!

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Fragrach In reply to differentiation [2011-09-27 14:07:28 +0000 UTC]

You're doing very well with the fursuits.
It's allways nice, when information gets spread and everybody has the chance to improve their gear.^^

I'm glad to hear you want to play a horned beastman. Since I have some experience in playing something like this, I may be able to help you with technical problems or give ypu helpful tutorials I have found over the years.

Better visibility will most probably have to sacrifice the fake eyes for your real ones. This improves the visibility enough I think. That's at least why I had it made like that...
Soft foam horns will work. If possible, you should avoid latex for the horns(since it does weird things after a few years, like the "skin" over the face of my mask does at the moment). A good friend of mine used some glue..."Pattex" do you want me to investigate that further?
Your hooves will most probably be a problem, if you have to use them the whole das...yome solution whit your feet standing "flat" on the ground will most probably make standing easier and reduce the risk of injury in situations like battle.
The digitigrade looks would have to be achieved with padding then.
I have a tutorial on that too(and already in english), if you like.^^

I'm really looking forward to future generations of your costumes, since your first generation equals the work of peaople, who craft these for a living...or even surpasses most of them.

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differentiation In reply to Fragrach [2011-09-27 15:03:25 +0000 UTC]

I intend to try and improve the visibility without having to sacrifice the fake eyes
In my personal opinion, I generally dislike the look of 'own eyes' masks, as a lot of them are rather bulky, and the eyes can look quite 'sunken', but I know they are usually necessary for fighting, to enable proper vision as much as possible.
Having said that, I think the way you have done your mask works well, as it casts your eyes in shadow, and creates a very strong brow line, which is very characterful.

Do you find, after a while, you get used to the tunnel vision a mask gives you?

There is always the option of vision through nostrils/mouth (and a rig could be set up to keep the moving jaw aspect of a mask that is elevated above the wearers own mouth).

Latex will indeed degrade over a few years, like LARP weapons do. An alternative would be to use isoflex instead of latex, but that is much more expensive.
Horns could be easily re-latexed though, or even resculpted.

The feet will be an interesting one. I will experiment to see how long/well I can walk in them. I have a gait that means I already 'naturally' stand on tip toes, so it may not be as much of a problem for me as with others. Then again, balance only requires training

I'm aware of using padding to create the illusion of digitigrade legs - it's definitely an effective solution - I'm just experimenting here

Haha, thank you very much - I'm looking forward to it too!

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Fragrach In reply to differentiation [2011-09-27 16:03:03 +0000 UTC]

That's the point, fighting with fake eyes mostly results in extreme tunnel vision, which means no ability to focus on any opponent than the one you're fighting at the moment.
It's not even relevant, if this impairs the ability to win a fight with more than one opponent...but it reduces the security for the people fighting with you. If you don't see them, you might hit them with the backward movement before the actual attack.
Having the eyes in the shadow has the additional benefit, that it's not neccessary to wear contacs or redo the makeup every few hours, since the eye's aren't visible most of the time.
Do you still intend to use fake eyes?
I heard from my girlfriend, that the mesh infront of the eyes can make vision difficult, when light strikes from the wrong direction.

After a while you get used to the vision. You generally start to remember where on the ground potential dangers are, that you won't be seeing, when youre directly infront of them and move your head accordingly to compensate for your reduced peripheral vision.
What problems do you expect?
The only thing is, that it gets one or two Larps to get used to it, but after that, you'll be nearly as profient with anything, as usuall.

Vision through the nostrils or mouth would create an unusually large head, I think, which would have to be supported by a lot of padding to make your body bulky enough for that head.
In addition, it would most probably create even mor of a tunnel vision through the nostrils and it would most probably be very irritating for fellow players to see your eyes in your mouth. XD

Isoflex instead(!) of latex?
Could that work?
Until now, I have only known it as a coating for latex.
Price isn't a concern, if things get more than twice as durable, don't you think?

The problem, that I see with the feet is, that it could be difficult or even dangerous in uneven terrain, battle situations or when having to flee.
Balance and training might be enough, if you're in a controlled environment, where it's sure, that there isn't anything going to happen. As far as I'm concerned, battle is best, when you stand secure and are able to absorb force without the risk of falling.
What I use is similar to this:
[link]
[link]
Although there are some modifications, which make it even easier to produce.

You're welcome. It's a delight when something like this comes to life.^^
Hope you're going to document your progress as nicely as with your Oryx.^^

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differentiation In reply to Fragrach [2011-09-27 20:03:22 +0000 UTC]

These are all very valid points.

I'd still like to attempt a mask with fake eyes, as a fail is just as congruent as a success, in that I have learned something by trying it out

My intention for fake eyes is to make the area of vision just as large as an 'own eyes' mask, but adjust the positioning of the fake eyes to outside that area completely.
As a matter of fact, it may help to create the illusion of a beastman even more, especially a herbivore, as they have eyes on either side of their head. Using the advantage of having your own ees in shadow will help to disguise the holes without using a mesh (I didn't use mesh for the vision holes in the oryx mask, as it didn't need it!)

Anyway, as I said, testing out a theory can only help

Yes, isoflex over foam is a perfectly valid method. I know some LARP weapons makers in the UK use it instead of latex.
The reason it's not used more, is because latex is much, much cheaper, and still lasts a reasonable length of time before needing replacing.

Again, very valid points regarding security in footing - and again, I can only experiment and see what happens.
Remembering what the ground was like at Drachenfest, I can see where you're coming from!
Those are some good references for padding and foot construction (although I would build hooves over a pair of Magnum boots, for ultimate comfort!)

I'll make sure to document any experiments I make
Keep in touch if you have any ideas/suggestions. I really appreciate your input, as it's good to hear someone else's views.

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Fragrach In reply to differentiation [2011-09-27 22:00:37 +0000 UTC]

Then I'm curious, if you'll be able to succeed in combining fake eyes with a reasonable vision.^^
I just located the eyes to the front, because I came to the conclusion, that a certain grade of evolution(walking upright, beeing able to use tools etc.) could result from a change of food sources to a more or less omnivore. I think the teeth of my character speak for themselves. XD
Since I made them a warrior race(the exact opposite of the natural tendencies of most herbivores to flee from danger), beeing purely herbivore didn't seem fitting.*g*
If you plan to skip the mesh part, I'd recommend black makeup arround the eyes to better hide them in the shadow.

Damn...had I known that, I'd have changed my order to ask, if my new hammer could be purely isoflex. But most probably, it's already nearly complete.
Well, next time... XD
Although I think, that makes more sense for pieces, that don't have to endure too much physical abuse but are constant subject to the sun...like horns.
Weapons will most likely be damaged by the physical contact...pure isoflex or combined with latex doesn't make that much of a difference then.

The reason why I'm not too much of a fan of stilt constructions is, that I sometimes have enough problems to absorb the physical force of a charging opponent, while standing flat on the ground with both feet.
Do you really think you could fight or run while only walking on the front of your feet?
You were at Drachenfest?
Have you been there too?
Instead of magnum boots, I recommend something with a similar sole, but a zipper instead of laces. Nothing is worse, than to require a short break because you have to tie your hooves. XD
Last time I took some sturdy boots for autumn weather with a zipper on the side...they last since 2006. XD

Great! I'm sure going to watch your progress.^^
I'll give you any ideas/suggestions, that I can think of and I'm happy you are interested in additional feedback.
I'm going to tell the girls of my character's race about your project too, since they might want to add something or might learn something valuable from your experiments:
[link]
[link]
[link]

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differentiation In reply to Fragrach [2011-09-28 10:05:52 +0000 UTC]

Indeed, you have a good evolutionary point about the positioning of the eyes, although animals like bulls are still aggressive and territorial, given the right reasons

As far as stilt feet are concerned - again, I just have to experiment.
Another good point to put forward is adjusting a costume to the suitability of the character. For example, an archer character shouldn't have to face a charging opponent in a shield wall
The costume needs to suit the character, or the character needs to suit the costume

My magnum boots have zippers
Most useful addition EVER.

I've added your friends to my watch list

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Fragrach In reply to differentiation [2011-09-28 11:15:58 +0000 UTC]

I know, that there are enough aggressive and territorial herbivores...but beeing omnivore(and having teeth that definitely are able to rend flesh) just gives a message, if some silly character tries to "feed the animal" with carrots or something like that.^^

As I said, try to experiment if you like. I'm not trying to force you to anything, just giving you advice.
The problem is, beeing an archer can be difficult with impaired vision and beeing not as dextrous with you character's hand gloves, as with your normal hands.
In addition, archers often have to relocate swiftly to avoid getting overrun by melee opponents.
Swift relocation and having to walk on stilts, while having to observe the ground for potential holes, stones or anything you could trip over doesn't seem quite effective.
It could either result in getting overrun quite often(and still create the problem of charging opponents, since not everybody limits charging to shield walls) or having to run without beeing able to see the ground properly, which could lead to injury because of falling.
As I said, you are free to experiment, but I'd recommend to test it somewhere safe before visiting a Larp.
Nothing is worse, that having a completely new costume and not beeing able to use it because of some minor issues.

Magnum boots with zippers?
I'll have to look for that... XD

By the way, you didn't answer some of my questions:
You were at Drachenfest?
Have you been there too?

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differentiation In reply to Fragrach [2011-09-28 14:23:43 +0000 UTC]

Ah yes, forgot to answer those:

Yes, I went earlier this year - I joined the Grand Expedition group that stayed in Gold Camp. I believe I saw you a couple of times

We also went on to Conquest of Mythodea afterwards

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Fragrach In reply to differentiation [2011-09-28 14:44:25 +0000 UTC]

You joined the grand expedition?
It's a shame I didn't happen to see...or maybe more precisely recognize you.
I have visited your camp once on Drachenfest after the final battle and again as a human on conquest...where I offered your leader a very spicy alcoholic beverage(the silent guy, not the one, who spoke a lot about the beverage).

I have been to gold camp a lot and have abandoned the green camp in favor of the gold camp this year.

Are you going to join the grand expedition again next year?
I'd really like to see your finished costume and I'd be happy, If we'd have the opportunity to play with you.
Maybe on Drachenfest?
We're going to visit the third of the greater Larps next year here in Germany called "Epic Empires" instead of conquest. It's a lot smaller than Drachenfest or Conquest with about 1000 players, but in general the costumes are a lot better.

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differentiation In reply to Fragrach [2011-09-28 14:55:44 +0000 UTC]

Compared to UK LARP, the standard of kit at both Drachenfest and Mythodea was very high
If Epic Empires is even higher, then that will be something to see

I think I may have gone to sleep when the spicy drink was being passed around (I heard about it in the morning ^^)

I don't think I will be able to make it next year (as it's not cheap to travel). Hope to make it in 2013 though - with a high elf group ^^

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Fragrach In reply to differentiation [2011-09-28 15:29:15 +0000 UTC]

In Germany the standard of kit at Drachenfest and Mythodea is considered mid to low...with some exceptions, like the orc camp, the dwarves and certain groups within the different camps.
The advantage is just, that because of the great number of players, most outstanding kits can be seen at this places.

Damn...you should have tasted it...or maybe not. I just drink a bit once every 1 or 2 years, just to refresh my mind, why I usually don't drink it. XD

If you're going to visit germany again, be sure to tell me!^^
I'd hate to miss you again. XD
Will you play your high elf the whole time or is there a chance I might get to see the beastman costume you're planning at the moment?
I might add, Epic Empires has an Elven Camp...it looks beautiful every year. It's within a small forest area and looks really magical.

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differentiation In reply to Fragrach [2011-09-28 16:22:02 +0000 UTC]

We might have to try out Epic Empires then

I will be sure to let you know when our next trip is planned. Also, chances are I will be playing a high elf the whole time, but, if I have room for it, I can always bring along beastman kit just to show you ^^

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Fragrach In reply to differentiation [2011-09-28 16:42:38 +0000 UTC]

I hope, I'll have the chance to yee you and your costume one day.^^
If you won't make it here, that would force me to someday go to a Larp in the UK. XD
We'll see, who has to travel where, but I'm looking forward to meeting you and seeing your kit.*g*

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differentiation In reply to LenoraGewandungen [2011-06-21 19:38:20 +0000 UTC]

You're welcome

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differentiation In reply to musiccreator48 [2011-05-24 09:03:47 +0000 UTC]

I have sent you a note regarding commission work.

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musiccreator48 In reply to differentiation [2011-06-20 14:34:13 +0000 UTC]

thank you

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differentiation In reply to Mephistodin [2011-02-01 08:39:47 +0000 UTC]

Hehe, I don't use any programs for 3D art - my work is all in the form of physical models.

The closest I have come to 3D computer generated work is dabbling a bit in ZBrush, which seems like a really nice program to get to grips with.

Thanks for your comment ^_^

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Mephistodin In reply to differentiation [2011-02-01 15:01:25 +0000 UTC]

Wha? How did you make that steam punk model? 0_o, just how big is it...

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differentiation In reply to Mephistodin [2011-02-02 21:42:10 +0000 UTC]

It measures approximately a foot and a half from front to back, and it's made mostly from interestingly shaped pieces of rubbish

[link]

Here's a photo of it without a photoshopped background ^_^

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Mephistodin In reply to differentiation [2011-02-02 21:49:23 +0000 UTC]

But it looks like all the pieces were crafted specifically as a whole, not from rubbish >_<. What "ingredients" did you use to make it. I'm in college 3D art right now so I'm curious

Also does it come in life size? I've been looking for a floating steam punk airship XD

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Mephistodin In reply to differentiation [2011-02-02 21:49:16 +0000 UTC]

But it looks like all the pieces were crafted specifically as a whole, not from rubbish >_<. What "ingredients" did you use to make it. I'm in college 3D art right now so I'm curious

Also does it come in life size? I've been looking for a floating steam punk airship XD

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differentiation In reply to Mephistodin [2011-02-03 14:30:52 +0000 UTC]

Oh, and the 'wings' are plastic picnic knives.

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