Initially, I wanted to spend about $10(Canadian) on my mask. In the end, I spent almost twice this much - because I didn't plan it out. Ten dollars is not that much, but if you don't budget out every aspect of your costume, it could cost you a lot more than you bargin for.
In planning, you also want to do some research and reference. There are not a lot of GREAT pictures out there of Tusken Raiders. I did a google image search, searched out other costume pics, and spent roughly an hour viewing all the Tuskens at
The 501st.com The more reference pictures you have of your project, the better your results.
Step 2 - Choose your Tools
1. Dremmel Tool
2. Hot Glue Gun.
3. A Sewing Machine (or friend in possession of one)
Step 3. - Choose your Workspace
As with any large prop project, you want to have a GAME PLAN. By formulating a plan of action, you will save yourself time and money while building your costume. You may even want to start a budget; how much do you want to SPEND on your ENTIRE costume? When you figure that out, break it down and cost out each element of the costume.
Much of what you will need for this costume is already in most basic house-holds. However, there are a few things that I, and most Tusken Builders could NEVER live without;
I own a Dremmel Multi Pro - and I LOVE IT. You will save yourself a LOT of time and FRUSTRATION by owning one of these 'lil wonders. It will sand, cut, polish, smoothen almost anything.
Don't get a cheap one - one that uses those tiny clear sticks, and you have to push the glue in with your thumb. Get a nice big one with a trigger-feeder. I've also found that the clear glue is not as strong as the beige-yellow sticks.
What can I say, if you are going to "costume", you are going to need to sew. If you can't sew, you are going to need to find someone who does.
You need a lot of room when doing a project like this. I had a hard time, as my workspace was our dining room. This meant I had to set up and take down EVERY TIME I worked on my costume. Ideally, you want a large area with a large work table. Lots of light is a MUST as well. Remember, you will be cutting, painting, and doing lots of other things - so there will be shards of plastic, cloth, etc getting on the floor.
Stock up in newspaper when painting. Basically, just have it set up so that - if you make a mess - you are prepared for it.
Well that's it, you're on your way to wasting many nights at becoming a Tusken Raider!
