Need to make a chainmail shirt for a costume but don't want to deal with the weight, cost or discomfort of the real thing? Watch this video on making faux chainmail for cosplay with stretch mesh fabric! This is a lightweight, affordable & comfortable alternative to buying or making a chainmail shirt for your cosplays.

Supply List

• Sewing Machine
• Stretch Mesh or Fishnet Fabric
• Matching thread
• Metallic Fabric Paint (spray or brush-on)
• Drop cloth or cardboard
• Niosh mask (when working with aerosols) 
• A well ventilated space

Video Tutorial

For this video, I used our Laced Tunic Outfit sewing pattern to create a cosplay inspired by the video game character Link from Legend of Zelda Twilight Princess. You can find this pattern in our store and use it for your next cosplay! 

This cosplay hack relies on using texture and color to trick the eye into viewing the mesh like a chain shirt. If you're lucky to find a mesh fabric that is already in the metallic color you are aiming for, you can add extra realism by 'weathering' the fabric with spots of grey, black or rust colored fabric paint.

A note on safety: If you are working with aerosol (spray) paints, make sure to work in a well ventilated area, away from family and pets, and wear safety gear rated for the type of aerosol you're using. It is important not to skip this any time you are working with paints, glues, sealants, or heating foam as all these release unseen toxins into your environment. Your lungs and eyes will thank you for making safety a priority. It is much better to be safe than sorry!