501st Legion is a group of talented artists that share a love for all things Star Wars. They aim to create film-accurate costumes to help promote the interest in Star Wars. 501st is a not just a cosplay group for Star Wars fans. 501st Legion aims to help others that wish to get into cosplay and other charities. Not only do they make costumes, they use them to shine a light into lives of others (just because they work for Vader does not mean they aren’t good guys).
I was pleased to have few questions answered by a member of the Legion:
What keeps you driven through a project into crunch time to finish?
When I first joined the 501st, I was asked to come to a couple events and “handle,” meaning watching out for the folks in costume and helping to wrangle the guests wanting photos. Seeing the joy, wonder, and belief – or disbelief – from the crowd upon meeting their favorite Star Wars “bad guys” was enough to motivate me to spend countless hours building my armor.
From looking into 501st I see that everyone in the group strives to have a Screen Accurate costume. What sources do you use to help in the design and creation process and how long would you average planning phase last?
Every approvable costume has a Costume Resource Library (CRL). A CRL is a series of requirements and supporting screenshots from the movies, games, or cartoons showing all details of the costume.
When working on a project, whether it is a new costume or a prop for an event, what tricks do you use to keep yourself of track?
Setting goals and milestones is important. However, costuming can become difficult for those who don’t have experience working with their hands. Our Garrison frequently holds “armor parties” with people who are expert crafters. Many of the folks in our group have massive tool collections and the experience to create great costumes.
501st is the largest cosplay group I have come across, to you as a member what makes the Legion so special to you?
Star Wars is special to millions of people. Experiencing the reaction of people when they meet Vader brings a smile to any Stormtrooper’s frown. Providing people a break from reality, even for just a moment is worth all the sweat, blood, frustration, and money spent on these costumes. Truly though, its the members that make it exceptional. Members are known to help a new member out with projects. We’re a tight-knit group. The Force binds us together.
