The Cybermen, with their chilling monotony and relentless pursuit of conversion, are some of the most iconic villains in Doctor Who’s vast universe. Their imposing stature and metallic sheen make them a popular choice for cosplay enthusiasts. But crafting a convincing Cyberman costume can seem daunting, especially for beginners. Fear not! This guide will break down the process into manageable steps, taking you from enthusiastic Whovian to converted Cyberman in no time.
Choosing Your Cyberman:
The first step is deciding which Cyberman design you want to emulate. The Cybermen have undergone numerous redesigns throughout Doctor Who’s history, each with its own unique features. Here are some popular choices:
- The Classic Cybermen (1960s-1980s): These Cybermen are recognizable by their silver suits, teardrop eyeholes, and head “handles.” They’re a good starting point for their iconic look.
- The Mondasian Cybermen (2010): These Cybermen, with their bronze coloring and emotionless expressions, were a chilling return to the original design.
- The New Cybermen (2006-2011): Sleek and menacing, these Cybermen possess a more humanoid appearance with exposed brains and integrated weaponry.
Building Your Base:
Once you’ve chosen your Cyberman, it’s time to gather your materials. Cardboard, craft foam, and Worbla (a moldable thermoplastic) are all excellent choices for constructing the armor pieces. You’ll also need silver spray paint, upholstery vinyl, and various craft supplies like glue and velcro.
For the body suit, a grey or silver jumpsuit or unitard is ideal. Thrift stores often have affordable options. Alternatively, grey leggings and a long-sleeved shirt can work in a pinch.
Crafting the Core Components:
The Chest Unit:
The chest unit is a defining feature of any Cyberman. It can be made from cardboard or craft foam, with details added using craft paint and buttons. Some cosplayers incorporate LED lights for an extra touch.
The Helmet:
The helmet, arguably the most recognizable part of the Cyberman, requires more attention. Here, Worbla becomes a valuable tool. You can sculpt the basic shape from Worbla sheets, then add details like the eyeholes and head handles. Alternatively, some cosplayers purchase pre-made helmets online, modifying them to match their chosen design.
Don’t Forget the Details:
The Cybermen’s menacing presence goes beyond just the armor. Gloves can be created using upholstery vinyl and craft foam, replicating the segmented design. Boots can be modified with silver spray paint and additional detailing.
Making Your Mark:
Weathering your costume adds a sense of realism. Use sandpaper to create scuff marks, and apply black paint to accentuate the “worn metal” look.
The Finishing Touches:
Once the costume is complete, practice your best monotone voice and robotic movements. The Cybermen are known for their emotionless delivery and stiff gait. Embrace the conversion!
Taking it Further:
For the truly ambitious cosplayer, there are ways to elevate your Cyberman costume to the next level. Consider incorporating sound effects, such as the Cybermen’s signature metallic hum. Adding working lights to the chest unit or helmet can further enhance the costume’s impact.
Creating a Doctor Who Cybermen Costume
Buying a Pre-made Costume
- Convenience: The easiest option is to purchase a pre-made Cyberman costume online. There are retailers that specialize in cosplay costumes, and you can find a variety of Cyberman styles to choose from, including different eras of the show.
- Potential Drawbacks: Pre-made costumes can be expensive, and they may not be the exact style of Cyberman you’re looking for. The quality can also vary, so it’s important to read reviews before you buy.
Crafting Your Own Costume
- Customization: Making your own Cyberman costume allows you to customize it to your liking and create a truly unique outfit.
- Materials and Skills: You’ll need to gather materials like craft foam, Worbla (thermoplastic crafting material), spray paint, and silver fabric. Crafting your own costume also requires some crafting skills, like using tools like hot glue guns and rotary cutters.
Here are some resources to help you get started crafting your own Cyberman costume:
- Instructables: This website has a step-by-step guide for creating a Cyberman costume using craft foam for the armor and a modified motorcycle helmet for the head [Instructables: CYBERMAN Costume]
- DIY Doctor Who Cyberman Costume: This blog post outlines a more budget-friendly approach using a pre-made suit and spray paint [DIY Doctor Who Cyberman Costume]
No matter which approach you choose, creating a Cyberman costume can be a fun and rewarding experience. With some planning and effort, you can create a costume that will make you stand out at your next cosplay event.
Popularity of Cybermen cosplay and fan conventions
Cybermen are classic enemies of the Doctor in Doctor Who and remain popular cosplay choices for fans. Here’s why:
- Iconic Design: Cybermen have a striking visual design that translates well to cosplay. Their silver suits, emotionless expressions, and cybernetic enhancements make them instantly recognizable.
- Challenge and Reward: Creating a Cyberman costume can be challenging, but successfully crafting the costume pieces, especially the helmet, is very rewarding for cosplayers.
Here are some places to find Cybermen cosplayers:
- Fan Conventions: Many Doctor Who fan conventions feature cosplay contests, and Cybermen are always well-represented.
- Online Communities: There are many online communities dedicated to Doctor Who cosplay, where fans share their Cyberman costume creations and tips. You can find these communities through social media or fan forums.
Doctor Who’s global fanbase and their enthusiasm for Cybermen cosplay
Doctor Who, the BBC’s long-running science fiction series, boasts a passionate global fanbase. Among the show’s iconic foes, the Cybermen stand out for their chilling portrayal and instantly recognizable design. This has translated into a thriving cosplay scene, where fans meticulously craft Cyberman costumes to embody these villains.
The appeal of Cyberman cosplay is multifaceted. Firstly, the Cybermen’s design offers a unique challenge. Constructing their metallic armor and emotionless helmets requires creativity and technical skill, making a successful cosplay a badge of honor. Secondly, the Cybermen’s status as relentless antagonists allows cosplayers to tap into a different persona. The chance to portray a menacing robotic villain holds a certain allure for many fans.
The global nature of Doctor Who fandom fuels this cosplay phenomenon. With conventions and events happening worldwide, cosplayers have a platform to showcase their creations and connect with fellow Whovians. Online communities dedicated to Doctor Who cosplay provide a space for sharing tips, techniques, and fostering a sense of camaraderie amongst Cyberman cosplayers.
Social media further amplifies the impact of Cyberman cosplay. Sharing photos and videos of their costumes allows cosplayers to connect with a global audience and gain recognition from fellow fans and even the Doctor Who production team itself.
Ultimately, Cyberman cosplay is a testament to the enduring legacy of Doctor Who and the creativity of its fans. It’s a way for fans to celebrate the show, challenge themselves creatively, and connect with a global community. So next time you see a Cyberman at a convention, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and skill that went into crafting their impressive costume.
Suited Up for Success:
Creating a Cyberman costume is a rewarding experience, allowing you to embody one of Doctor Who’s most recognizable foes. With careful planning, dedication, and a touch of Whovian enthusiasm, you’ll be well on your way to conquering any cosplay event. Remember, conversion is inevitable – so why not embrace it?
