Wipe after use
Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust, sweat, or dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Avoid moisture
Store your armor in a cool, dry place. Moisture can damage foam, paint, and electronics.
Check straps & joints
Inspect elastic straps, buckles, and Velcro regularly. Replace loose parts before they break.
Store properly
Use a padded box or mannequin. Do not stack heavy items on top of your armor.
Transport with care
Wrap delicate parts (like fins or antennas) in bubble wrap. Use hard cases for conventions.
Small cracks in foam armor
Use contact cement or Barge glue. Apply thinly to both sides, let dry, then press firmly.
Paint touch-ups
Keep extra paint from your original build. Use acrylic or spray paint in thin layers.
Loose straps or magnets
Re-glue with strong adhesive (E6000 or super glue). Reinforce with a small fabric patch if needed.
LED or wiring issues
Check battery connections first. Re-solder loose wires carefully. Use heat shrink tubing for protection.
Dents in foam
Use a heat gun on low setting to reshape. Do not overheat.
Major structural damage
Broken 3D printed parts
Complex electronics failure
Full repaint or resizing
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Wipe down armor | After each use |
| Check straps & Velcro | Before each convention |
| Inspect paint & seals | Monthly |
| Test electronics | Every 3 months |
| Deep clean & storage check | Yearly |
