tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24090759272878882972011-11-17T11:06:36.823-05:00Providing construction and modification tips for replica Stormtrooper armor since 2002.DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.comBlogger751100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-91248883547627266282011-08-01T14:40:00.003-04:002011-08-01T14:53:34.215-04:00

Here's the Reuters article from July 27, 2011, that gives us an update on the lawsuit between Lucasfilm and Andrew Ainsworth's Shepperton Design Studios surrounding the rights to replicate Stormtrooper armor and helmets. Lucasfilm won in California courts, but was recently ruled against in the UK. This essentially means that SDS can't ship to the States, but will continue producing armor.The

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-59364153125671399122010-07-30T14:49:00.006-04:002010-07-31T20:40:41.364-04:00

Okay, so the term "flash mob" is a bit of an exaggeration. This early-morning 501st event in uptown Charlotte, NC, was a planned promotion for Star Wars Celebration V on behalf of Lucasfilm and Reed Expositions (the folks running the big summer 2010 Star Wars fan gathering). We were asked to help drum up some media coverage in regions outside of the Florida market to ensure that fans in the

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-49201182640435697022010-07-28T13:11:00.002-04:002010-07-28T13:34:02.446-04:00

It's been a few years since Museum Replicas acquired the license to produce Star Wars costume replicas, but we finally got a gander at the new original trilogy Stormtrooper armor this past week at San Diego Comic-Con 2010. Bearing in mind that some costumers are very particular about the accuracy of their reproductions---sometimes down to the inclusion of what are clearly shortcomings/errors---

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-20001018301975577612010-04-23T08:46:00.003-04:002010-04-23T09:12:03.352-04:00

The company known as eFX Collectibles acquired the license to produce certain items that were being made by the now-defunct Master Replicas. While the Master Replicas Collectors Edition (MRCE) Stormtrooper helmet is still available though a number of online retailers, eFX is now releasing an Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back version that appears to be made from the same molds as the MRCE. The

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-6555226979756829862009-10-31T21:53:00.002-04:002009-10-31T22:08:51.290-04:00

Rain or shine, the trooping must go on. Trooped in armor for the first time in more than a year and was glad that that suit still fits, albeit repairs are in order. The Carolina Garrison was helping to promote the Star Wars: In Concert tour which will be at the Bi-Lo Center in Greenville, SC, on Thursday, November 5th. Ticket sales are suffering from some high priced seats and a weeknight event (

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-86947083799374197512009-09-11T09:51:00.003-04:002009-09-11T10:05:46.072-04:00

Amazing! Sensing the huge amount of support for the top two entries in the Chick-fil-A Cow Appreciation Day contest, the food chain decided to award TWO grand prizes. Both the Jobe Family of Boone, NC, and Noel (TK-8541) Green will receive a year's worth of meals. Noel, of course, has pledged to donate his winnings to his local New Mexico food bank to assist those less fortunate. As an added

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-37670458542810659072009-08-29T22:51:00.002-04:002009-08-29T22:55:27.404-04:00

The competition is pulling out all the stops in the Chick-fil-A Cow Appreciation Day competition and the 501st Legion's very own Noel Green (TK-8541) needs your daily vote from now through Monday, August 31st! Although fans were able to push Noel into the No.1 spot late last week with a surge of votes, the outcome is now uncertain. The CowTrooper respectfully requests that you do your part for

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-77229218285053131402009-07-03T22:17:00.003-04:002009-07-03T22:22:28.062-04:00

Been playing with Google Calendar for a quick way to get the word out on international 501st Legion events. While it's easy to use, customization seems a bit limited.If anyone's got a better collaborative calendar option, please let me know!

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-15181299251769145532009-06-11T10:24:00.002-04:002009-06-11T10:55:25.209-04:00

Just donated to a great (and fun) cause. On November 22nd, 501st member Joe Schonberger (TK-3699) will run the Philadelphia Marathon in Stormtrooper armor to help raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation in memory of the late Katie Johnson (daughter of 501st Founder Albin Johnson). Yes, it's crazy. Yes, it's even crazier because he'll be wearing a kilt (Joe is also a member of the Kilted

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-87794530786262989052009-01-24T19:20:00.002-05:002009-01-24T19:29:29.999-05:00

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-44280953096794004922008-12-30T21:30:00.002-05:002008-12-30T21:36:56.485-05:00

I just received a great note from a fellow trooper...I was going through some old boxes yesterday and I found my son's first wallet which he lost about a year or so ago. It's a vinyl Darth Vader wallet I got for him at CIV. Inside was a single dollar bill and a single 501st trading card with a trooper holding a paper ewok target. :wink: Happy New Year-Brack The trading card referenced is my own

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-61944902205751197882008-11-29T20:01:00.003-05:002008-11-29T20:37:22.080-05:00

Thanks to JediInsider.com, here's a peek at the soon-to-be-released Spacetrooper figure from Hasbro. You might recall my previous posts about the zero-G backpack, an original trilogy "Holy Grail" prop that has not yet been identified in full. Click the image above for an enlargement and I think you'll agree that this action figure interpretation probably isn't as accurate as we prop-builders

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-23314567185431200912008-10-29T08:20:00.001-04:002008-10-29T09:50:25.139-04:00

Over the years, I've fielded many inquiries regarding armor-building. In fact, finding a distinct lack of helpful feedback from existing armor owners was one of the main reasons why I launched this website six years ago. While I enjoy the dispensing advice about all things armor, it's enormously satisfying when I receive thanks from fans who have completed their own costume. And it's even sweeter

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-76591913522221247382008-10-27T19:56:00.008-04:002008-10-28T13:58:47.888-04:00

In 2005, with Star Wars Celebration 3 quickly approaching, I saw the need for something to hand out to young fans at troopin' events. During this time, the 501st typically had stickers, temporary tattoos, buttons and such, but those were consumables and supplies often ran low, or the event organizer simply didn't have enough lead time to have them produced. Inspired by an early Legion coloring

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-51095202208050000252008-09-24T09:17:00.008-04:002008-09-24T09:47:17.973-04:00

One of the more iconic scenes from 1977's A New Hope is Luke and Leia's swing across the Death Star chasm. Ironcially, the basis of this scene is one of the least-realized Star Wars props---the Stormtrooper grappling hook. I posted some early reproductions of this item under Accessories on my original site, but here's a new one from Andy (TD-6372). Although there are no clear shots of the

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-66821920066511619742008-09-21T22:47:00.003-04:002008-09-21T22:59:04.135-04:00

TK-899 celebrated 37 revolutions around the sun today. A somewhat mild day for a Stormtrooper, playing with the little clones on the farm and doing some financial planning. However, I did receive a very cool piece of fan mail from a listener of the 501stCast who illustrated me as seen on my Florida Garrison rookie card from 2005. Thanks, John!

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-80792101357657204982008-09-21T13:41:00.000-04:002008-09-21T22:46:18.681-04:00

Dragon*Con 2008 was a blast, as expected. Of all the cons that the 501st is known to attend regularly, D*C is the most laid-back in terms of 501st costuming. Honestly, aside from the Saturday morning parade down Peachtree Street, it's difficult to find a plain ol' Stormtrooper or otherwise canon Star Wars costume. On the other hand, if it's FemTroopers or Darth Hello Kitty that you want, you've

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-76129068734226580092008-09-16T07:01:00.003-04:002008-09-16T07:09:05.399-04:00

YouTube is interesting. Since it's user-created content, things will appear at seemingly random times without any regard for when they actually happened. I just came across a video uploaded this week that shows the Disney Star Wars Weekends parade from back in June. Check me out at 3:21 with my homemade "Go 501st!" banner...make sure you watch in high quality mode. Also worth noting is the

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-19365932998237299462008-09-09T19:31:00.011-04:002008-09-09T19:47:02.522-04:00

Attention: Owners of TE, AP, RT-Mod, SDS or even FX armor proceed at your own risk. The following images of the Rubies Supreme Stormtrooper costume are graphic in nature. TK-899's White Armor Chronicles assumes no responsibility for involuntary regurgitation or gouged eyeballs.If you are searching for Stormtrooper armor to join the 501st Legion, please do not purchase this costume. If you are

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-50759157182351979212008-09-05T10:07:00.002-04:002008-09-05T10:08:34.740-04:00

The reason for this seemingly random post will be revealed at a later time.

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-87311152846800878152008-08-25T10:41:00.008-04:002008-08-25T10:58:54.481-04:00

I've been creating 501st PR material for some time now, on both the local and Legion level. I really enjoy creating flyers, advertisements, banners, posters, trading cards, the Legion PR kit, kid's activity book, the first official Legion typeface and more. I heard that the 501st booth at Dragon*Con was in need of some things, so I put together a 3-sided "Fast Facts" display using the trivia list

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-20493274029827455102008-08-18T08:46:00.006-04:002008-08-18T19:25:37.458-04:00

Star Wars: The Clone Wars premiered on Friday, August 15th, so many theaters around the world contributed to the hype by hosting midnight screenings for eager fans. I have to say that a lot of the fun surrounding new Star Wars films is the anticipation, the lining up, the going to the movies in costume, and the instant connection you feel with fellow fans at events like this. There wasn't a huge

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-54387170894990890102008-08-11T22:45:00.007-04:002008-08-12T23:28:54.144-04:00

The 501st Carolina Garrison was asked by Warner Brothers to supply some characters for a Charlotte, NC, press screening of Star Wars: The Clone Wars on Monday, August 11th, at Regal Phillips Place Stadium 10. Ironically, I didn't see anyone who really looked like press, but, as an extreme anti-bootlegging measure, WB supplied three very intimidating bodyguard types who wanded everyone entering

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-11777256412410057422008-08-04T20:15:00.005-04:002008-08-04T20:47:49.708-04:00

I came across the full hearing document from propmaker Andrew Ainsworth's recent court loss to Lucasfilm regarding claims of intellectual property rights over various Star Wars helmets and armor including those of the classic Stormtrooper, Imperial Gunner, TIE Pilot, and others. Hardcore costuming enthusiasts may find a few gems within the lengthy court document. Although not directly mentioned

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-12991695216440898152008-08-03T13:56:00.007-04:002008-12-09T08:48:42.026-05:00

More dreadful shots of the Rubies Supreme Stormtrooper costume are surfacing. Here's one from Celebration Japan which shows that you, too, can have an Imperial mannequin that does "The Robot" for the price of 90,000 yen ($837 USD): An out-of-costume 501st member approached the Rubies booth at San Diego Comic-Con 2008 and had an interesting conversation with a sales associate:The Rubies guy

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-75032014330472305922008-08-03T09:38:00.002-04:002008-08-03T09:49:55.154-04:00

I first posted about the case of Andrew Ainsworth's unlicensed replica armor back in April 2007 (click here for the background info). It took months to come to a conclusion, but on July 31 a British High Court judge ruled in favor of George Lucas and Lucasfilm regarding ownership rights of Star Wars costumes including the iconic white-armored Stormtrooper design. While many argue that Ainsworth/

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-72800418493333103962008-08-02T17:54:00.011-04:002008-12-09T08:48:42.498-05:00

Every so often, Toys R Us stores will host midnight toy premieres on the eve of their official release date. The closest thing I can think of outside of Star Wars is the Harry Potter midnight book release parties. It's been a while since I've attended one of these (I think the last one was for The Phantom Menace before even I joined the Legion), but since there was a store only 9 minutes away and

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-11746873531166855572008-07-31T12:06:00.005-04:002008-12-09T08:48:42.771-05:00

I made a post a while back about the elusive "holy grail" of Stormtrooper costumes, the Zero-G or Space Trooper as seen outside the Death Star docking bay in 1977's A New Hope. Hasbro's presentation at San Diego Comic-Con 2008 revealed that they will be releasing a 3 3/4"-scale figure of this very character which they are calling a "Space Trooper." Not a lot of detail on this image, but I have to

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-2531420371962576552008-07-31T11:26:00.005-04:002008-12-09T08:48:43.084-05:00

If you buy the new Clone Wars 501st Legion Clone Trooper action figure you will get an instant membership in the famed 501st Legion costuming group! Well...not really. This is another case of the fictional 501st Legion being potentially confused with the real-life costuming organization which was honored by Lucasfilm's inclusion of their name into Star Wars canon back in 2004. The confusion is

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-62835871426155480402008-07-28T15:30:00.009-04:002008-12-09T08:48:43.463-05:00

I stopped collecting Star Wars toys twice. Once around 1985 when I thought I was getting "too old" to play with toys, and then again around 2002 after a 7-year resurgence of collecting. The toys from my childhood are pretty much all gone, but I still have a ridiculous amount of items from the second coming of my Star Wars fandom. Being an adult collector meant that I had disposable income and the

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-16636318390040826752008-06-08T17:31:00.004-04:002008-12-09T08:48:43.618-05:00

Star Wars Weekends is upon us again and this year DZ-4009 and myself loaded up the family and made a trip to that wretched hive of sun and humidity known as Florida. This would be the third Star Wars Weekends troop for me as well as my first troop of the year (current home construction is occupying most of our time). The Florida Garrison did an excellent job of tightening things up this year and

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-50025213630616611182008-05-19T19:42:00.000-04:002008-12-09T08:48:43.773-05:00

One of the most obscure and overlooked Stormtrooper variants from the original trilogy is the trooper type seen outside the Death Star docking bay as the Millennium Falcon is being pulled in via tractor beam (pictured above). Although some fans refer to this trooper as the "Spacetrooper", the official Star Wars databank already has that particular name reserved for another Expanded Universe

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-22104582215287495292008-05-12T10:19:00.004-04:002008-05-12T15:00:24.080-04:00

Since my retirement as 501st Legion Webmaster earlier this year, one of my goals was to get back to finishing up some other Star Wars costumes that I've had in various stages of completion. One of them, started in 2004, is the AT-ST Driver from Return of the Jedi. Finally finished this one up this weekend after sourcing a decent jumpsuit with the proper stitching and color (I'm no seamstress!).

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-47123186239663151692008-05-04T10:06:00.007-04:002009-01-30T07:55:24.322-05:00

I just found out that the Master Replicas Collectors Edition (CE) Stormtrooper helmet that I mentioned in a previous post is now available in the U.S. from a shop in California, and at 54% off retail (just $90 US!) it's quite a steal. If I wasn't already in possession of two TE2 buckets, an RT, and an FX, I'd be quick to jump on this one. If you are in search of a more accurate helmet for your FX

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-66511074323284693162008-04-30T13:39:00.006-04:002008-04-30T14:00:49.374-04:00

This is actually some older news, but I wanted to document it on tk899.com for posterity. The 2008 Guinness Book of World Records has declared the 501st Legion the world's "Largest Star Wars Costume Group." Page 174 of the annual guide features a write-up and photos of the Stormtroopers from the 2007 Rose Parade. Technically I'm not pictured (I think I'm just out of frame), but I'm still quite

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-46439632064018885452008-04-28T10:15:00.003-04:002008-12-09T08:48:44.157-05:00

Tonight, 26 members of the Fighting 501st Legion will appear on NBC television's popular game show "Deal or No Deal" as custodians of the iconic mystery suitcases. The members involved with the production of this Star Wars-themed special episode have not been able to talk much due to confidentiality agreements, but we should get the behind-the-scenes scoop after today's air date. It's moments

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-11827963278220974152008-04-17T09:26:00.006-04:002008-04-22T18:51:33.698-04:00

It's all over the news lately, and inevitably friends and co-workers will ask us Star Wars fans if we have been following the story. British propmaker Andrew Ainsworth, the man who produced the original Stormtrooper armor (as well as some other costume parts) for Lucasfilm back in the mid-1970s is being sued in British High Court for making and selling replica Star Wars helmets and armor through

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-80410570369609854012008-04-15T19:55:00.005-04:002008-12-09T08:48:44.676-05:00

As reported by Rebelscum.com, the short-lived Limited Edition Master Replicas Stormtrooper helmet will once again be available through new licensee eFX Collectibles. When Master Replicas somewhat unexpectedly ended their Lucasfilm license to produce Star Wars items, they apparently short-changed quite a few collectors who had pre-ordered the helmets. eFX will be making good on some of those

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-16086427964863480162008-04-15T07:47:00.008-04:002008-12-09T08:48:45.667-05:00

I blogged about the forthcoming Rubies Supreme Stormtrooper armor here, and you can see some of Rubies' official promotional photos on the excellent starwarshelmets.com. A fellow costuming fan happened upon the chance to see and feel a real prototype that's making the rounds at trade shows and here's a few photos they were able to snap before being asked to stop:Does this off-the-shelf armor look

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-11402851827326903362008-03-27T22:21:00.003-04:002008-03-27T22:38:50.701-04:00

Why is it that the media doesn't fact-check anymore? I'm not even going to go into the details about the current controversy surrounding the re-editing of the yet-to-be-released film Fanboys, but you can easily Google the story to play catch up. I'm just venting a little here as I feel that a few inconsiderate Star Wars fans (who claim to be 501st members), chose their words poorly and have now

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-37917075608032075452008-03-17T13:35:00.003-04:002008-03-17T13:55:52.118-04:00

I posted a while back about the Rubies Supreme Stormtrooper costume that's coming out later this year. Jez from StarWarsHelmets.com got in touch with Rubies and acquired some better images of the promotional shot for curious fans. I'm still concerned that the material may not be of reliable "trooping quality" and that the "standard" size will mislead buyers into thinking that this is a

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-89483147315161555882008-03-13T18:34:00.004-04:002008-03-17T17:20:16.403-04:00

Each year, the 501st Legion elects its Legion Commanding Officer (LCO)---the equivalent of a President and CEO for this fine volunteer costuming organization. The LCO then appoints his or her second-in-command, the Legion Executive Officer (LXO), as well as a staff of administrative officers which include my previous title of Legion Webmaster (LWM). Sometimes there is carryover from the previous

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-3471741705872422452008-02-24T20:20:00.000-05:002008-02-24T20:21:53.041-05:00

Any respectable Stormtrooper is always tinkering with their costume, whether it's adding new parts or improving old ones. The colloquial term for a modification is "mod". I have a whole section of the old site dedicated to trooper mods that make things easier, better, or more fun. Well, in late 2006 I made the decision to make what I would call "the ultimate mod," laser eye surgery. While some

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-44545538835598259112008-02-19T17:08:00.003-05:002008-12-09T08:48:45.934-05:00

My posts on various costuming message boards today began with "This is either the news we've been waiting for...or the news we've been fearing." You see, for over a decade, die-hard fans have been sculpting, forming and casting their own replica Stormtrooper armor in garages and basements around the world. And, frankly, we've gotten quite good at it. Scores of trooper experts spend countless

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-20334368198647025132008-02-10T20:37:00.000-05:002008-12-09T08:48:45.953-05:00

What do Stormtroopers wear beneath that shiny white armor? Even among the seasoned ranks of the 501st, that question makes for awkward discussion. Well, as an integral part of any trooper's wardrobe, I'm here to reveal my personal secret. First, let me explain that a black bodysuit is necessary to complete the proper look of a Stormtrooper where there are gaps between the armor. Second, I don't

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-15445594780387691252008-02-10T19:00:00.000-05:002008-02-10T19:14:17.111-05:00

Well, it would seem that we are cranking out 501st podcasts faster than I can remember to blog about them here on my own site! We're already working on 501stCast episode 9 now, and have also debuted a fun new game show called Stump the Trooper where we test the knowledge of our 501st members and give out prizes to our friends on myspace.com/501stcast. The widget on the right column is your

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-20080203863060704122008-01-09T20:16:00.000-05:002008-01-09T20:25:21.867-05:00

The latest 501stCast is now available at 501st.com/podcast (or conveniently through the 501stCast player on the right column of this page). Since this was Episode VI, we gave the show a title that alluded to the Battle of Endor in Return of the Jedi and joked about how it would be 100% Ewok-Free (us troopers are still bitter about that whole "defeated by teddy bears" thing). As we started

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-64917865403973745322008-01-01T18:53:00.000-05:002008-01-01T19:19:16.199-05:00

Back on November 14, 2007, I posted an internal request to the Commanding Officers of every unit of the 501st Legion to send me their New Year's Greetings in their native languages. I thought it would make a nice minicast for the 501stCast. Additionally, we needed something to round up the past year's greatest accomplishments of the 501st...the 118th Tournament of Roses Parade (I was there, baby!

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-41225823673210082722007-12-28T17:14:00.000-05:002007-12-28T20:25:10.465-05:00

Where is the time going?! Okay, the fourth and fifth episodes of our official 501st Legion podcast are now available for download at 501st.com/podcast. We've done our first "celebrity interview" with Star Wars author Karen Traviss (of the Republic Commando series) but it wasn't edited in time for Episode 5, so listen for it in Episode 6 in January 2008. I'm also doing some Skype (you do have

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-32952657382650001182007-12-16T18:34:00.000-05:002008-12-09T08:48:46.221-05:00

One of the biggest geek milestones for a Star Wars fan has to be getting on Lucasfilm's holiday greeting card mailing list. Each year, they send out a custom-designed card to their friends, licensees, and partners. Over the past decade, the 501st has developed a great relationship with LFL...particularly in the area of fan relations. As such, many 501st members (including yours truly) are on the

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-91588311894234776802007-12-15T23:18:00.000-05:002007-12-16T12:16:13.685-05:00

Stormtroopers all across America have been working with their local U.S. Marines to help promote the Toys For Tots toy drive this time of year. The 501st Carolina Garrison is no exception, and if I was going to squeeze in one event during the holidays, it might as well be something in the spirit of the season. I'm normally in the Charlotte, NC, area, but we were visiting the in-laws this weekend

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-66349199488686658892007-12-06T08:41:00.000-05:002007-12-06T08:47:49.820-05:00

This post is really to serve as an archive for past polls that I've put here on White Armor Chronicles. Surprisingly, it doesn't appear that Blogger has an option to archive old polls. There's probably a hack out there somewhere, but until I find it, I'll just post results like this:Yes, I'm a 501st member. 26 votes (42%)Not yet, but thinking about it! 31 votes (50%)No, just visiting. 4 votes (6%

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-71476000598000450982007-12-06T08:26:00.000-05:002007-12-06T08:40:36.851-05:00

These official 501st podcasts are coming faster than I thought! This is old news now, but our third episode is already available for download at 501st.com/podcast. We resolved some audio quality issues and Rich Sigfrit (IC-9577) did an incredible job with the post-production editing this time around. Trust me, when we recorded the show, it was full of awkward pauses, mispronounced words, and

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-22795194183626031192007-11-15T09:43:00.000-05:002007-12-06T08:40:53.451-05:00

Sticking to the schedule (which I personally feel is paramount to the success of any podcast), we have just released episode 2 of the "501stCast," the official biweekly podcast of the 501st Legion. This time around, we added Lor as a third co-host, just to see how it would go. As a result, the chemistry changed and we ended up scrapping the first take entirely. There was a lot of talking over

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-2394800662100484882007-11-06T22:51:00.000-05:002007-11-06T23:44:09.043-05:00

As seen on starwars.com , Timothy Zahn's 501st Trading Card, and even girls at Dragon*Con! I'm doing another run of custom Imperial Barricade Tape in 1000-foot (304.8m) rolls. Perfect for decorating trooping venues, designating areas "off limits", and showing your loyalty to the Empire. Continuous black imprint on durable bright yellow tape reads "IMPERIAL OCCUPIED ZONE" followed by "MOVE ALONG"

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-10514934336206830372007-11-04T21:38:00.001-05:002007-12-06T08:41:06.501-05:00

Finally, after several demos and countless Skype conversations, the first official 501st Legion podcast was published on November 1st, 2007 (although we are calling it our October 31 episode)! We still have a lot to learn as we delve into podcasting, but it's a great medium and adds a bit more personality to the 501st Legion's relationships with fans and the public. You can check out the first

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-45081772640952509462007-10-30T22:59:00.000-04:002008-12-09T08:48:46.484-05:00

Thanks to everyone who has tried (and fallen in love with) my single-piece flat lens mod. I make the lenses from welder's faceshield replacements and they have some small imprinted writing (a warning for welders) in one corner. It should be noted that this corner of the lens strip isn't visible through a helmet's eye holes when installed properly. So, please don't panic if you order a kit from me

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-7900830387707962992007-10-14T19:34:00.001-04:002008-09-24T09:17:10.243-04:00

After years of reliable wear from my Nomex Hatch Flight Gloves (wow, the price has really gone up on these in the past 5 years!), I finally came across a pair of black rubber neoprene gloves this weekend in a size medium. At $6.99 US, I think they were a bit expensive for rubber gloves, but they are really nice with a 12-inch gauntlet (that tucks nicely beneath the forearm armor) and 100% cotton

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-86992866259317563552007-10-04T23:23:00.000-04:002007-10-04T23:43:38.868-04:00

Something I've been wanting to do for a long time is produce a podcast for the 501st Legion. I really enjoy The ForceCast among other podcasts, and they are a great way to pass the time as I drive to and from work every weekday. I finally got myself a decent headset microphone and put out the call for a fellow 501st member who was willing to work on the project with me. Varza (DZ-8772) answered

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-3991675128351376292007-09-26T20:16:00.000-04:002007-09-27T09:07:51.834-04:00

It's been a while since an affordable static box was readily available (anyone remember the $35 Galaxy Trading Static Box from 2003?). The existing offerings do their job well, but they could also end up being the most expensive part of your bucket. The Trooper Com Interface is the latest low-cost alternative. At this point I should tell you that I haven't seen or heard it in action. The creator

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-7593365091120887332007-09-24T12:45:00.000-04:002008-12-09T08:48:46.834-05:00

After Celebration IV in Los Angeles, my wife began to entertain the idea of joining the 501st Legion. Like most people, she was intrigued by the camaraderie and philanthropy shared between like-minded Star Wars fans from around the world. After spending a week away from home for CIV, I was surprised that it was Dionne, not I, who was pushing for us to attend a long weekend in Atlanta, Georgia,

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-59722621389086087502007-09-14T13:26:00.000-04:002007-09-14T13:36:47.239-04:00

There's just nothing cooler than an obscure Star Wars t-shirt. In fact, that's one of the ways the hit ABC TV show LOST got its start. Due to large unsolicited requests for these, you can now pre-order the "Don't Get Cocky" design until October 6, 2007. Just click here to go to the order page. Reprints of the other designs in the "Targeting Shirt Trilogy" ("Stay On Target" and "I Have You Now")

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-7001173225142019022007-09-07T11:15:00.000-04:002008-12-09T08:48:47.000-05:00

A picture is worth a thousand words, and never more so than with an event like Dragon*Con in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. With a rumored 60,000+ attendees from around the world, D*C has become an annual homecoming event for costumers and revellers from all walks of life. The overall vibe was non-judgmental, and with the exception of staff and security being a bit too high-strung, I found little to

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-16668126739007394142007-08-28T09:31:00.000-04:002007-08-28T09:43:56.051-04:00

Although Dragon*Con is often regarded as the annual "homecoming" for the 501st Legion (having been the site of the 501st's first official group gathering in 1998), this year will mark my first foray into this established sci-fi/fantasy/comics/costuming convention in Atlanta, Georgia. Dragon*Con is perhaps best described as an urban Mardi Gras of sorts, where fans and friends congregate in their

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-50005780200896547942007-07-25T15:08:00.000-04:002007-07-31T20:21:47.036-04:00

501st Legion Founder Albin Johnson started something incredible 10 years ago when he decided to show up at a local movie theater in full Stormtrooper armor just for fun. Although he would never admit it, Albin has an amazing sense of vision and his passion drives him to succeed. I would like to state now, for the record, that I think he's doing it again. The formula is similar to that which fuels

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-16709100009375818632007-07-21T11:17:00.000-04:002007-07-21T12:28:04.196-04:00

It's been one year since troopers around the globe were asked by Lucasfilm to submit videos of themselves marching in military-style formation. During the grueling summer practice sessions, troopers were asked to state their name, 501st Legion ID number, and unit affiliation. At the time, nobody knew just why Lucasfilm wanted the footage...was it an audition for the Star Wars live-action TV

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-73340505061637839662007-07-11T19:22:00.001-04:002007-07-11T19:27:27.100-04:00

It seems Google's Blogger.com can't stop adding new features to make things easier for me. The latest addition is the ability to run polls on this blog so I've added one about how visitors find tk899.com. Please vote in the poll at the top of the right column to help me test this new feature. And while you're at it, scroll all the way to the bottom and map yourself!

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-45962084666304381432007-07-04T13:47:00.001-04:002007-07-11T23:06:45.358-04:00

The community of Tega Cay, South Carolina, loves the 501st Legion! In 2006, the Carolina Garrison marched in this city's 4th of July parade and even had 501st Founder Albin Johnson as the Grand Marshal. The troops were such a hit, the Mayor invited us back this year and extended every courtesy imaginable including changing space at his own home office, a special 501st cake, a pre-parade dinner,

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-42968234708070543192007-07-02T11:06:00.000-04:002008-12-09T08:48:47.352-05:00

The upcoming Fourth of July parade in Tega Cay, SC, presents a unique opportunity to "blast" spectators with water as I ride in the back of a flatbed truck with other costumed participants. The organizers have given the approval to do this, and as a summertime event, the cool streams of water should be welcomed (and relatively harmless). I picked up a Water Warriors "TigerShark" super soaker

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-57573992357718754612007-06-29T11:17:00.000-04:002007-07-06T16:39:35.465-04:00

I've just added a list of all my Stormtrooper-related events (right column), and so far I've come up with roughly 46 occassions dating back to March 2002 when I first acquired my armor kit (although there's probably some that I've forgotten). On my original site, I used to document my troopin' gigs including photos of each event, but I eventually gave up. Hopefully, this blog will make it much

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-66809178974778399692007-06-26T22:20:00.000-04:002008-12-09T08:48:47.853-05:00

One of the simplest upgrades you can make to your helmet is to get some screen-accurate Hovi Mix microphone tips replicas to replace the faucet aerators that come with the FX helmet kit. Resin castings of these original parts are fairly common now and only cost about $10 US per pair. Contact Russell if you are looking for a set. You can even wire mini-speakers inside your mic tips to use in

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-55601481341974491902007-06-26T11:16:00.000-04:002008-12-09T08:48:48.355-05:00

I just purchased a second-hand ROM/FX Static Burst/Voice Amplifier unit and started playing around with it. A "static box" is a custom circuit board that adds the cool walkie-talkie clicks and radio noise that is heard after a Stormtrooper speaks in Star Wars. The static (in combination with a voice amplifier) really adds a nice element of realism to the costume. I acquired the "Pro" version,

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-65803608784838076012007-06-20T22:19:00.000-04:002008-12-09T08:48:48.755-05:00

It's amazing how small modifications can really change the overall look of your armor. The bulk of my armor is still the tried-and-true FX suit that I bought in 2002. However, with a new helmet and this ab plate modification, other troopers always ask me what type of armor I have (thinking that it's not FX, but not sure exactly what). Anyway, the ab plate buttons that come with the FX suit are

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-30941741713846534982007-06-20T16:04:00.001-04:002007-06-27T17:13:54.559-04:00

When I upgraded from the FX helmet to the more accurate RT-MOD in December 2006, I decided to try a single piece lens for simplicity of installation as well as convenient future replacement. Photos of the original screen-used helmets show a flimsy green sheet of plastic was used for lenses. Of course, movie props are typically built to serve their seconds of screen time, not to last for years of

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2409075927287888297.post-54631298852787284012007-06-16T20:13:00.000-04:002007-06-28T08:32:25.631-04:00

Today I trooped a Mid-Summer Festival at the Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, NC. Some of the local 501st members have family that work at the museum and invited us to add some flare to their event. From the museum's website: "See a live white buffalo, hear the legend of White Buffalo Woman, watch Star Wars Imperial Stormtroopers and Rebel Alliance fighters in battle, meet an iguana

DEAN (TK-899)http://www.blogger.com/profile/08119044169281170123noreply@blogger.com0