Have you ever dreamed of having wings that move like a real bird or dragon? Many cosplayers love adding wings to their costumes to make them look more magical and lifelike. But how do you create wings that actually move?
There are different ways to make wings flap, whether they are covered in feathers (like angel wings) or have a skeletal structure (like bat wings). This guide will help you learn how to build moving costume wings using both manual and automated systems.
Understanding Moving Wing Mechanisms
Before you start building your wings, you need to understand the two basic mechanisms used to make wings move: automated systems and manual systems.
Automated Systems
Automated wings use pneumatic systems or electrical motors to move. These systems can create smooth, realistic movements, making your wings appear more natural.
- Electrical Motors: These allow you to control the speed and angle of the wings. The downside is that they require batteries and motors, making the costume heavier.
- Pneumatic Systems: These use air pressure to move the wings. They are lighter than electrical motors but require CO2 or compressed air, which can be expensive and difficult to carry.
Manual Systems
Manual systems rely on your body movements to control the wings. These systems are simpler, lighter, and easier to build than automated ones. You can use your arms, legs, or shoulders to move the wings by pulling cords or using pulleys.
Building Pneumatic Costume Wings
If you want wings that flap automatically, a pneumatic system is a good choice. Here’s how to build them:
Materials Needed
- Backpack
- Plywood
- Bolts, nuts, and washers
- Aluminum tubing
- Pneumatic tubing
- Pistons
- Speed limiters
- Liquid CO2
- 5-way 3-position pneumatic switch
Step 1: Planning Your Wings
First, decide on the style of your wings. Angel-style wings with a single hinge look great but don’t fold well. Bird or bat-style wings offer better movement.
Draw diagrams to plan how your wings will open and close. Look at pictures of real wings for inspiration.
Step 2: Making a Prototype
Before building the actual wings, create a prototype using plywood and flat trims. Test the design by attaching it to your back and checking the movement.
Step 3: Building the Wings
Cut the aluminum tubing to match your prototype measurements. Drill hinge holes and smooth the edges with a metal file. Use washers between each piece to keep the movement smooth.
Step 4: Making the Backplate
Cut the back of a backpack to attach the wings. Create three attachment points: one on each side and one at the bottom to keep the wings stable. Use large washers to prevent fabric tearing.
Step 5: Mounting the Wings
Attach the wings to the backplate with bolts. Test the setup to ensure comfort. Add padding to prevent bolts from digging into your back.
Step 6: Connecting the Pneumatic System
Now, you need to install the air-powered system that makes the wings move. A 4-way 3-position switch controls airflow:
- Position 1: Air enters one side, making the left wing open.
- Position 2: Air enters the other side, making the right wing open.
- Position 3: No air flows, keeping the wings in place.
Use speed limiters to control how fast the wings open and close. Start slow and adjust as needed.
Step 7: Attaching the Power System
Mount the pistons onto the wings. The placement determines how far the wings will open. Use long bolts, nuts, and washers to keep the pistons straight.
Step 8: Adding the Final Touches
Cover the wings with fabric or other materials to match your character. If you’re making bat wings, add ribs for structure.
Step 9: Testing the Wings
Wear your wings and practice moving them. Adjust the speed and airflow for smooth movement. Start with small movements before trying bigger motions.
Building Manual Feathered Wings (Angel Wings)
If you prefer a simpler, lighter design, manual wings are a great option. These wings use a string and hinge system to move when you pull a cord.
Materials Needed
- Feathers
- Cardboard
- Cotton string
- White fabric
- Bamboo poles (1/2 inch thick)
- Duct tape
- Metal wire
- Glue
- Bolts, washers, and lock nuts
- Scissors, pliers, knife, bradawl, saw
Step 1: Designing the Frame
Decide how big you want your wings to be. Keep in mind that large wings may be difficult to transport.
Step 2: Creating Hinges and Articulated Segments
Make hinges by bending metal wire into loops. Attach them to bamboo poles to create movement points. Then, cut cardboard into triangles to create the folding segments of the wings.
Step 3: Assembling the Frame
Use wire rings and fabric to cover the frame. Attach diagonal strings for extra support.
Step 4: Attaching Feathers
Glue long feathers to the trailing edge of the wings first. Then, add smaller feathers to cover the frame. Make sure all feathers are securely attached.
Step 5: Building the Backplate
Measure your shoulder width and cut a trapezium-shaped backplate. Use plastic twine to attach the wings securely. Add padding for comfort.
Step 6: Final Touches
Cover the backplate with feathers to hide screws and wires. Make sure the wings are balanced and comfortable to wear.
Step 7: Trying on the Wings
Ask a friend to help you put on the wings. Practice moving them to ensure they work properly. Adjust the fit if needed.
Movable Cosplay Costume Wings (Credit: Getty Images)Important Tips for Making Moving Wings
- Look at real bird, bat, or angel wings for inspiration.
- Decide between manual and automated wings based on your budget and comfort.
- Use recycled materials when possible to save money.
- Measure everything twice before cutting.
- Use straps for extra support.
- Hide all screws, bolts, and wires to make your wings look more realistic.
- Be careful when moving your wings in crowded areas.
- Secure feathers properly to prevent them from falling off.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make moving wings for cosplay, you can create your own unique, realistic wings. Whether you choose a pneumatic system for automated movement or a manual system for a lightweight design, your wings will add a magical touch to your costume. Have fun and enjoy your next cosplay event with your amazing moving wings!