5 Tips for Crafting a Skyrim War Axe Prop

Imagine gripping a shimmering Glass War Axe, its blade glowing like enchanted crystal, as you prepare for battle in the vast lands of Tamriel. This was my vision when I set out to recreate this iconic weapon from Skyrim. The challenge? Making it look battle-ready while remaining soft and lightweight as a prop.

The blade was shaped from PVA foam and modelling foam, a combination that allowed for intricate carving. Using a Dremel, I carefully shaped the foam, mimicking the angles of the axe. For the hilt, stability was key. A wooden dowel provided the core strength, wrapped in soft materials to maintain its prop-like nature.

The finishing touches included metallic paints and a subtle shimmer, giving the weapon the look of glass. 

5 Tips for Creating Props Like the Skyrim Glass War Axe

1. Add stability where you can. Whether it’s a dowel in the hilt or a thin piece of plywood to reinforce the blade, internal stability is crucial for maintaining the shape of your prop. Once you start layering foam, gluing, and shaping, the piece can distort without a strong structure underneath.

2. Save detailed sculpting for last. When working with modelling foam, it’s tempting to jump into intricate details right away. However, connecting pieces often requires additional foam, which can erase or obscure those details. Finish your base structure first, and save detailed carving and Dremel work for the final stages.

3. Plan your layers to avoid rework. Before gluing or assembling your materials, map out how each layer will come together. This planning step prevents you from having to undo or redo sections, especially in intricate areas like a weapon’s hilt or blade edge.

4. Reinforce joints and stress points. Stress points, like where the blade meets the hilt, are prone to wear and tear. Use strong adhesives, such as epoxy, and consider adding hidden reinforcements like pins or dowels to ensure these connections are sturdy.

5. Seal your foam for durability and paint adhesion. Foam is porous and can absorb paint unevenly, so sealing it first is essential. A foam-safe sealant, like Mod Podge, creates a smooth base that strengthens the prop and ensures even paint coverage. This step also helps prevent dents or damage over time.