How to Make a Japanese Sword

The Samurai warriors were from Japan. Originally the term pertained to the imperial guards. After the arrival of the feudal system, the term applied to all of Japan's military class. The Samurai lost privilege in 1871 when feudalism ended in Japan. An essential part of the Samurai costume was the Japanese sword. To complete a Samurai costume in modern times, acquiring a Japanese sword can be accomplished by making your own. Size will be determined by the person holding the sword, so adjust the size accordingly.

Things You'll Need

• Heavy cardboard 1' x 4' Pencil Scissors or box cutter Liquid starch in a bowl Strips of newspaper Gray paint Paint brush Electric tape

Instructions

1. Draw the shape of your sword onto the cardboard. The sword is a bowed, wide rectangle shape. Begin by drawing one side of the sword, a bowed line that runs the length of the cardboard. Draw the second line by drawing it perpendicular to the first line.

2. Cut out the shape by using the scissors or box cutter.

3. Cover the cardboard shape with the strips of newspaper. Dip the strips into the liquid starch, wipe off excess liquid, and then wrap around cardboard. Continue applying strips to reinforce the sword.

4. Add additional strips of the newspaper to build a ridge around the sword handle. This ridge should be about 8 to 14 inches from the end of the sword, the end opposite the blade.

5. Continue to add the strips of newspaper until you are satisfied with the shape of your sword.

6. When the sword is dry, paint the blade end of the sword gray.

7. Cover the handle and ridge area of the sword with the black electrical tape.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not soak the cardboard with starch when applying newspaper strips.