Article:
LARP Kit - To buy or not to buy? That is the question.

Kit is an integral part of LARP, without it, there isn't much point. So one of the main questions a number of LARP players ask is: “Should I buy my kit or should I make it?” The simple answer being, do what you feel comfortable with.

Some things you have to buy, that goes without saying. Unless you have experience and know how to make chainmail and LARP safe weaponry, for example, it’s going to cost you more to try and make it than to buy it in the first place. But things like shields, cloaks, pouches and even leather armour can be made for a fraction of the price. Not only will you enjoy making it, but it is something that is customised to you, and you have the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a good piece of kit.

Making your own kit can also help get into the mind of your character. How often do you find yourself browsing through websites looking for kit and looking at each item going, “It’s nice, but it just doesn’t quite fit my character”? If you make it yourself, then it comes out exactly the way you want it, with time and practice.

If you do feel like making your own kit, then here are some handy tips for you.

• Budget your cash. If it’s going to cost you more to make your kit than it is to buy something similar that can be easily modified for less, then don’t bother. Buy new and modify to your heart’s content.
• Remember the six “P”s. Perfect Preparation Prevents Particularly Poor Performance. Plan, plan and plan again, double and triple check every measurement, especially if you are new to kit making. There is nothing worse than forking out hard earned cash on a piece of leather, only to make a set of armour that doesn’t fit you. Draw out everything on paper; even make a paper template if it will help you.
• Make sure you have the right tools. Nothing will cause you more problems than trying to make things with the wrong tools. Pencil is always better than pen, always use a metal ruler, and always use sharp scissors. When doing leatherworking, I’ve found snap-knives are better than Stanley knives, they are more flexible for rounder cuts, and you get more for your money. You will also need riveting tools, a hole punch and a strap cutter. If you want to stitch your leather instead of rivet it, use an Auto Awl instead.
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