r/CosplayHelp • u/cold_gyoza • 9h ago
How do I achieve a texture like on a cape/cloak using blankets, and not just using dirt/grime for the look?
For some reference, this is the Rat King from Deadlock.
In regards to my current progress on the cosplay, I've been collecting a lot of different white blankets that I intend to use, dyeing them later on with a prominent red/bourbon colored for that regal look. Using two different reds for that sporadic, "i put this together from scraps" look.
However, it's the greenish/brown grime that I don't know how to replicate. I'm hoping I could get some insight on how to do something like this, without just dragging the fabric through the mud and sewers, or at the very least, hoping I still smell nice. My current plan right now is:
- Use Spray paint or dipping it in paint with a fade upwards, damaging the cloak for future use but probably could work.
- Maybe using real dirt. Probably not this one. That's gross, and I'd have to REALLY go out of my way to look for that.
Any help would be appreciated! Guides, advice, anything helps.
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u/Octospyder 9h ago
to be honest dyeing often does not give you a very rich color, especially if you're starting from white. tbh, the way i'd do this cape would be to buy 3 or 4 different large red sweatshirts from thrift stores, then cut them up into flat pieces, then arrange the pieces and cut them to size so you get good color variation. for the grime, I would get a matte spray paint in that green/brown color, and use that on the edges and bottom pieces. you'll need at least 3 or 4 cans, i think, and I would maybe get a cheap can to practice with. you'll get better effects if you blast the spray in short bursts, rather than sweeping it, though it will take a lot longer to cover.
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u/cold_gyoza 9h ago
That's actually a good point you make with the dyes. And since it's not particularly rich, I can probably use it for the lower pieces to really enhance that "crummy" look, too. But I was thinking the same thing of using spreaypaint for the general dirty look, that seems to be the best approach overall!
I think the cutting of the pieces and getting that color are going to be the hardest part, and this could be worthwhile to look into. Tysm!
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u/AutoModerator 9h ago
We detect that your question is about dyeing. Please remember that you CANNOT dye something into a lighter color like dyeing a dark blue fabric yellow. For fabrics and fibers, identify whether your material is synthetic or not since it'll affect the dyes you use. If it's synthetic fabric, you need to use synthetic dyes. Do not reuse any pots or containers you used for dyeing for food preparation. For wig details, you can try using alcohol inks/markers or adding wefts of the desired color if it's lighter than the original wig color. You can also paint fabric but it'll usually stiffen the fabric even if you use a fabric medium and is not suitable for large surfaces.
For real hair, we recommend using a wig if possible, especially if you have dark hair. Spray-on colors and hair chalk do exist but can be difficult to execute and typically do not work well on dark hair.
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u/smthng_unique 9h ago
Have you asked r/dyeing at all? They might have ideas