by Library News
Alex Patrón uses the lab’s resources, like 3D printers, to create props and costumes to bring comic book and movie characters to life at comic con events he attends.
The journey to create started at an early age, when Alex used cardboard and duct tape to create props such as staffs and swords. Over time, his creations have become more elaborate, taking in every detail of a character’s look and personality.
“The projects have definitely gotten more complicated over time when it comes to building. At first, it was duct tape and toilet paper rolls, but as I got older, I started taking some engineering classes. So, I started implementing some circuitry into my builds,” Alex said. “In one build, I took a plastic ornament, some foam, and lights and made a thermal detonator prop from ‘Star Wars.’ It lit up when I pressed the button on top.”
Alex Patrón works on a project in the FabLab.
Some of the characters Alex has recreated include Ash from “The Evil Dead” film series, zombie Dr. Strange, and Scarecrow from the DC Comics universe. One of his costumes took more than 150 hours to complete.
In his next build, Alex hopes to create parts of a costume in the FabLab for the Fan Expo Dallas in June. Using the FabLab’s 3D printer, Alex looks to create a prosthetic arm for his character and sew the costume, which will be entirely made from scratch.
He encourages makers of all types to use the FabLab because it saves time and money, and the expertise of the staff is invaluable.
This helmet is one of the props that Alex Patrón has made to use at comic con events.
“Most of the cosplay stuff that I have built for props I have built here in the FabLab because it has the resources,” Alex said. “It is so much cheaper to build items here in the FabLab. I 3D printed a prop that would have cost $80 to $90 to buy. I made it for $12 in the FabLab. Using the FabLab is much nicer on my paychecks.”
The FabLab is an 8,000-square-foot makerspace that contains not only 3D printers but laser cutters, screen printers, kilns, sewing machines and a full shop room. People from any experience can use these resources at the UTA Central Library. Throughout the academic year, the library hosts weekly maker workshops for the various tools in the FabLab.
Alex Patrón working on a design for a prop in the FabLab.
Items created in the FabLab are not just limited to film props but anything that a person can design, whether for fun or a practical purpose. The FabLab is on the first floor of the Central Library.
For upcoming events in the FabLab, go to the UTA Libraries website or follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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