Tessa astronaut helmet

Hey everyone! I'm so thrilled to dive deeper into my Tessa James Elliot cosplay from Murder Drones. When I first saw Tessa, I was captivated by her unique design – especially that iconic astronaut helmet. It instantly became a dream cosplay for me, and I knew I had to bring her to life! Choosing to cosplay Tessa wasn't just about her cool aesthetic; I really resonate with her no-nonsense attitude and her mysterious role in the Murder Drones universe. Her character is complex, and embodying that through a costume is always a fun challenge. Let's talk about the helmet, because honestly, that was the star of the show for this build! I spent countless hours researching references and planning the construction. For materials, I primarily used EVA foam, which is incredibly versatile for prop making. I started by creating a basic template based on screencaps from the show, then carefully cut and heat-formed the foam pieces. One of the biggest challenges was getting the spherical shape just right while ensuring it was comfortable and offered decent visibility. I layered thinner foam for the curves and used contact cement for strong bonds. For the visor, I opted for a tinted acrylic sheet, which I shaped using a heat gun. Attaching it securely without obstructing the view was a delicate process. The details are what truly make Tessa's helmet stand out. I added raised foam details for the panel lines and vents, then meticulously sanded everything smooth before priming. Painting was another crucial step; I used a base coat of silver, then carefully added the distinct blue and yellow markings with masking tape. A clear coat sealed everything in, giving it that perfect space-worn but still functional look. Beyond the helmet, the rest of Tessa's outfit required attention to detail too. The trench coat, the utility belt, and even her specific boots – each element contributes to her overall presence. Finding or modifying a trench coat that matched the animated style was a hunt, and then I added custom patches and weathering effects to make it look authentic. For anyone looking to cosplay Tessa, my biggest tip is to break down the costume into manageable parts. Start with the most complex piece – for me, it was definitely the helmet – and work your way out. Don't be afraid to experiment with materials! There are tons of tutorials online for EVA foam work that can give you a great foundation. Also, gather as many reference images as you can from all angles; they are invaluable. Wearing this cosplay to conventions has been an absolute blast. It's so rewarding to see other Murder Drones fans recognize the character and appreciate the effort. It truly feels like walking straight out of the show, and I love sharing my passion for Tessa with everyone! If you're thinking about cosplaying her, I say go for it – it's a super rewarding project!