Custom Transformers
Custom Fortress Maximus Master Sword
by Lou B. ( char_leigh )

With the recent release of Titans Return Fortress Maximus, many of us fans and collectors are disappointed that the retail Hasbro release of the toy lacks the Master Sword. For you, my friends, I give you this simple, silly, and fun Do-It-Yourself solution.

Here is a simple graphic template. Print it out (I used adhesive paper), glue it or stick it to styrene sheet, cardboard, foam core, craft foam, matte board, etc. and cut it out. There's no real instructions for assembly, so take creative liberties if you want. Resize it, modify it, make it bigger or smaller. Instant Master Sword for your new Fortress Maximus! It's by no means a replacement for a superior 3rd party product or the actual Hasbro/Takara one, but for under $5, it ain't too shabby.

Thanks, everyone! You're awesome! ~Lou

I found a photo on-line of the Master Sword -- I think it's the upcoming, Hong Kong TRU exclusive Master Sword (which looks different than the SDCC one). I used that as a reference as I drew the template up in Photoshop.

I noticed that Perfect Effect made a BLUE version of the Master Sword a few years ago. So in the event you wanted a blue sword, I created a blue template also (see photo).

I also took photos of Generations Metroplex with both versions of the sword. And here is also the brand of adhesive paper that I'm working off of.

As I've mentioned before -- there's no right way to assemble this. Your results may vary depending on the paper stock and printer that you use. I made swords using craft foam and also foam board. Some of you may try to use styrene sheets, placard boards, or random plastic sheets. I'm using a really old ink jet printer, so my colors are not as rich as I would like them to be. Maybe printing out on photo paper with a laser printer would produce better results.

Either way, I hope some of you find this useful. Like I said before, it's a cheap, quick substitute for a 3rd party product or the real thing. It looks decent if you just need it for display, but unless you reinforce it or build it from sturdier material, it's not really built for play or heavy use.

Thanks again for checking this out. ~Lou

I haven't tried it yet, but it is possible to use layers of foam to make it look more 3d, giving it surface detail. If I try this, I'll post my results.

So far, I've only used craft foam sheets and foam card. I was about to use the thicker foam mats -- but that might be too thick -- resulting in a very thick blade and maybe a hilt that won't fit into Fortress Maximus's hand. I really liked working with craft foam sheets -- it's so easy to cut thru, but it's not very sturdy. Foam card works good and the results are great, but I have a hard time cutting thru foam card -- my razor's blade dulls really quick.

Ideally, if someone has the skill -- the best would probably be styrene sheet and layering it to give it that 3d look.

If I try different materials or techniques, I'll be sure to post my results.

I tried adding more layers of foam like you suggested and it's a HUGE improvement. I had to make multiple printouts of the template and I used more craft foam sheet to build up the layers. I adhered it all together with hot glue.

The final result looks GREAT! It really adds depth and complexity to the sword. It looks so much better with the added crevices, shadows, and surface detail.

Thanks again for suggesting that!

Here are photos of the Master Sword with Fortress Maximus.

Yeah. Here are a few. I think you should branch out and try some prop making. I've always loved your custom TF work, and I think your skillset and mentality would gel great with prop making. Here are some channels that I've been watching:

https://www.youtube.com/user/AweMeChannel
https://www.youtube.com/user/testedcom
https://www.youtube.com/user/DustFilmsOriginals

I LOVE the Radicons board. I really think TFW2005.com's Radicons board is like the RPF board of toy customizing. We have some MINDBLOWING talent here.

There are some REALLY COOL, CLASSY people here on the forums. This is just my way of saying "I thank you." to the creative community.

I wanted to say thanks and to contribute something here on the Radicons board. I wanted this contribution be something that customizers and fans of all skill levels could do with a few simple materials.

 

Basic edit needed. Double check inline photos, etc. Add the above quote as an alternate suggestion.

Possibly use a post just for the attachments.