Creating a Cyberman costume can be a thrilling project for any Doctor Who enthusiast. One of the most recognizable and crucial components of a Cyberman is their distinctive chest console. If you’re looking to bring your own Cyberman to life without breaking the bank, this guide will walk you through crafting a fantastic, budget-friendly chest console using readily available materials. Inspired by the resourceful spirit of DIY prop making, this tutorial focuses on achieving the iconic look of the Cyberman chest piece using simple techniques and inexpensive items.
To construct the central box of the console, a cardboard trading card collector box, approximately foot-long, serves as the perfect base. These boxes are not only affordable but also easily customizable. The genuine Cyberman console features a screen at the top and a circular element at the bottom. To replicate this, repurpose a speaker from an old, broken portable CD player. Carefully trace a circle on the lower front of the cardboard box and cut out the opening to fit the speaker. Above this, create a rectangular cutout to mimic the screen area. Once the cutouts are complete, spray paint the entire box silver to achieve that metallic Cyberman aesthetic.
For the distinctive grating detail seen on the original Cyberman console screen, look for discarded modular shelving. The diamond-shaped pattern often found in these shelves is ideal. Using metal cutters, carefully cut a section of the shelving slightly larger than the rectangular opening you created in the cardboard box. Attach this grating to the inside back of the box using epoxy. To enhance the depth and shadow effect behind the grating, spray paint the inside of the box black. This creates a more authentic look for your DIY Cyberman chest console.
The side panels that flank the central box are another signature Cyberman design element. Circuit boards are excellent for recreating this detail. Large circuit boards, like those available from surplus stores, offer a great starting point. With the help of a circular saw, carefully cut the circuit board to the desired size and then divide it in half to create two symmetrical side panels. Mask off any areas of the circuit board you wish to remain in their original color or detail, and then spray paint the rest silver to match the central box and unify the console’s appearance.
Assembly of the Cyberman chest console involves a practical, DIY approach. Magazine-sized backer boards provide a sturdy backing structure. Cut two pieces of miscellaneous foam to match the size of the circuit board panels. Sandwich the foam between the circuit board panels and the backer boards. Drill through all layers in several places and use wire lengths to secure the stack by threading them through the holes and twisting them tightly at the back. Black plastic tubing, secured with the same wire method, can be used to border the entire arrangement, adding a finished edge to the console.
To add an extra visual element, consider incorporating lights. While not always a feature of every Cyberman iteration, internal lights can enhance the prop. Utilize LED lights on wires, allowing for flexible placement within the central box. Experiment with different arrangements, including solid and blinking LEDs, to achieve your desired effect. Include switches for controlling the lights; one for on/off and another to potentially change the blinking pattern.
For practical wearability and access to the electronics, use Velcro strips. Epoxy Velcro strips to the back of the cardboard box and the corresponding center of the chest console assembly. This allows for easy removal and re-attachment of the central box for battery changes or light adjustments. Mount switches on the side of the box for easy access to the light controls, making the electronic components self-contained.
Finally, to wear the chest console, the “overalls” method offers a simple solution. Cut the straps from an old pair of overalls and attach them to the back of the console using glue and wire for reinforcement. Button connectors from the overalls can then be sewn into the shoulder seams of your Cyberman suit, allowing the console to hang comfortably from your shoulders. Velcro strips on the back of the console and the front of the suit will further stabilize the chest piece during movement. With these steps, you’ll have a fantastic, homemade Cyberman chest console ready to complete your Doctor Who costume.
