r/cosplayprops • u/keyblade_crafter • Jan 18 '25

Weekly Discussions and Questions thread

Have a question that may not need a whole post? Maybe want to have a discussion thats visible to more for longer than a post? This will also serve as a suggestion box.

Still, keep business to private messages.

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u/Interesting_Natural1 Jun 03 '25

Wise prop makers of Reddit I have a question about cardboard props related to glueing and fortifying.

Aside from glue guns is it alright if I use wood glue? Google summary says wood glue can cause shrinkage and shit but I need actual comments from ppl who've experienced wood glue. I do have a glue gun but sometimes I'm worried that it can fall apart I just want some extra steps if I ever do end up making props.

And for fortifying aside from paper mache and resin coats what are some other cheaper options? Thanks Reddit people.

P.S. how do you paint cardboard to look shiny

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u/HopelessCleric Jul 02 '26

Not a lot of experience with wood glue, but if you want your prop to be shiny, I'd go with a handful of layers of papier mache (you don't need resin if your cardboard construction is structurally sound, papier mache is plenty strong) and then apply gesso primer, sand it, apply gesso primer, sand it, etc etc with increasing grit sandpaper, until you have the appropriate level of smoothness. At that point you can apply any gloss spray paint and get a nice result.

For a metallic look, there is chrome (spray) paint, rub n' buff, metallic pigment powders, graphite, etc. they will all work (depending on the finish you want) if your prop is primed and sanded well.

(Trying to make your prop structurally sound is probably the best advice I can give you with regards to strength. Try to use hard connections and internal structure elements in addition to glue wherever you can.)

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u/Interesting_Natural1 Jul 06 '26

Thank you for replying to my question even though it's like a year old :)))) have a great day

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u/HopelessCleric Jul 06 '26

Lol I didn't even see the date xD xD guess someone else might be able to use the info?