Halloween Universe
DIY PropsAdvanced

Building a Star Wars Hologram!

by VanOaksProps

Embedded from YouTube. This video belongs to its creator; Halloween Universe indexes it as a discovery resource.View original ↗

Difficulty
Advanced
Length
12:57
Views
51,041
Published
May 2025

What this video covers

VanOaksProps walks through a full build of an Andor Season 2-inspired Star Wars holoprojector prop, combining vintage part sourcing and modification with 3D printing, laser cutting, and practical electronics. The build integrates an ESP32 microcontroller, Neopixel lighting, and a hologram fan to achieve an in-universe screen-accurate effect. Weathering is accomplished through airbrushing, oil paint washes, liquid latex, and Rub n Buff, giving the finished piece an authentic, battle-worn look. Downloadable files are available for creators who want to replicate the project.

Key takeaways

  • Combines vintage kitbashing with modern fabrication tools like 3D printing and laser cutting for a screen-accurate Star Wars prop
  • ESP32 microcontroller drives the Neopixel and LED lighting effects inside the holoprojector housing
  • Multi-stage weathering — primer, spray paint, oil washes, liquid latex, and Rub n Buff — sells the aged, in-universe aesthetic
  • Safety precautions were taken when stripping paint from vintage components, including lead testing and proper PPE
  • Free downloadable print files are provided to help others replicate the build

Who this is for

Experienced prop makers, Star Wars cosplayers, and sci-fi set designers looking to build a screen-accurate, electronics-integrated holoprojector display piece.

Tools mentioned

  • Bambu Lab H2D 3D printer
  • Iwata Eclipse airbrush
  • laser cutter
  • nylon brush

Materials mentioned

  • hologram fan
  • ESP32 microcontroller
  • ESP32 breakout board
  • Neopixel strip light
  • 5mm pre-wired LED lights
  • LED bulb holder
  • buck converter
  • Wago 221-415 connectors
  • 2-gang electrical box
  • socket cap hex screws
  • Starbond CA glue
  • 3M VHB tape
  • wire loom
  • 1-inch acrylic tiles
  • Upol filler primer
  • Duplicolor Metallic Silver
  • Montana Shock White Cream
  • Montana Shock Orange
  • Createx Bloodline Diseased Umber
  • Windsor & Newton Black Oil Paint
  • liquid latex
  • Pewter Rub n Buff
  • chemical paint stripper

⚠ Safety notes

Paint on vintage parts was tested for lead before removal; chemical paint stripper was used as the primary removal method, with hand sanding for stubborn areas — proper PPE was worn throughout.

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