Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about ordering, production, or your prop? You're in the right place. We've compiled answers to the most common questions we receive. If you don't see your question answered here, reach out to us directly through our Contact page.
Ordering & Shipping
How long does production take?
Most props have a production time of 2–4 weeks from the date of your order. Complex or large pieces (full armor sets, oversized weapons, or props requiring detailed paintwork) can take 4–6 weeks. We always list the estimated production time on each product page. If you have a specific deadline — like a convention date — message us before ordering so we can confirm we can meet your timeline.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We ship worldwide. International shipping times vary by destination, but generally range from 7–21 business days after production is complete. International customers are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or taxes charged by their country. We cannot mark packages as "gifts" or under-declare the value to avoid customs fees.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping is calculated at checkout based on the weight and dimensions of your order and your destination. Domestic (US) orders typically range from $15–45 for standard shipping depending on the size of the piece. International shipping costs vary widely. We use USPS Priority Mail for domestic orders and a combination of USPS and DHL for international.
Do you offer expedited shipping?
We can often accommodate rush production for an additional fee, and we offer expedited shipping options at checkout. If you need something urgently, contact us before placing your order and we'll give you an honest answer about what's possible given our current queue.
My tracking hasn't updated in several days. Is something wrong?
Tracking can sometimes stall between scans, especially for international packages going through customs. If your tracking hasn't updated for more than 10 business days, contact us and we'll investigate with the carrier.
Can I change my shipping address after placing an order?
If your order hasn't shipped yet, yes — contact us immediately and we'll update the address. Once a package has been handed to the carrier, we cannot change the destination. In that case, you would need to contact the carrier directly with your tracking number.
Products & Sizing
How do I know what size helmet to order?
We recommend measuring your head circumference using a soft tape measure, one inch above your eyebrows and around the widest part of your head. Most of our helmets have size charts on their individual product pages. If you're between sizes or unsure, message us with your measurement before ordering. For a full guide, read our helmet sizing guide.
What's the difference between a painted and unpainted prop?
Unpainted props are fully printed, sanded, and primed — ready for you to paint in your preferred color scheme. Painted props go through our full finishing process: color-matched base coat, detail painting, weathering effects, and a protective clear coat. Painted props are priced higher to reflect the additional labor. For more detail, see our guide on painted vs unpainted props.
Can I request a custom color or paint scheme?
Absolutely. Custom paint schemes are one of our most popular requests. Simply message us with your character reference images or color codes and we'll provide a quote for the custom work. Custom paint adds to production time and cost, but gives you a prop that's uniquely yours.
Do your props come with any interior padding or foam?
Helmets include interior foam padding by default to provide a secure fit and protect the painted interior. Other armor pieces include attachment hardware (straps, velcro, D-rings) as appropriate. If you need additional padding or specific attachment modifications, let us know when you order.
How fragile are your props? Can they survive convention use?
Our props are built for actual wear and display, not just shelf decoration. We use high-quality PLA+ or PETG filament for structural strength, and painted finishes are sealed with protective clear coat. That said, all props should be treated with care — don't store them in a hot car, don't drop helmets on hard floors, and don't over-flex rigid armor pieces. Minor cosmetic chips can be touched up easily with matching paint.
Can I use your props for professional photoshoots or commercial projects?
Yes, many photographers and content creators purchase our props for professional work. Please note that the props themselves are replicas of copyrighted character designs — commercial use rights for the original IP remain with the respective game studios. We don't restrict how you use our physical products, but we're not able to grant licensing rights for the original characters.
Custom Orders & Commissions
Can you build a prop that isn't in your store?
Often yes. We take custom commissions for props from games, films, and other media. Send us a message with your character/prop, reference images, and your target budget. We'll let you know if it's within our capabilities and provide a quote. Custom commissions require a 50% deposit upfront and the balance on completion.
Can I send you a 3D file to print?
Yes, we accept customer-provided 3D files for printing and finishing. The file needs to be watertight and print-ready (we primarily use .stl and .3mf formats). We'll review your file and quote printing plus any post-processing needed. This is a great option if you've found or purchased a model you love and want our professional print and finish quality.
Do you offer full costume commissions?
We specialize in hard prop elements (helmets, weapons, armor panels) but can sometimes coordinate full costume builds for clients willing to work on a longer timeline and higher budget. Contact us with your complete vision and we'll assess feasibility.
Do you offer group or bulk pricing?
Yes! Groups of 3 or more cosplayers ordering coordinated props (like a full squad of Spartans or Gears characters) qualify for group pricing. Contact us with your group's complete order and we'll provide a bundled quote. Group orders also give us the opportunity to batch-mix paint colors so every piece in the group matches precisely.
Returns & Repairs
What is your return policy?
Because every prop is made to order, we don't accept returns for buyer's remorse or change of mind. However, if your prop arrives damaged, defective, or significantly different from what was ordered, we will make it right. Contact us within 14 days of receiving your order with photos of the issue and we'll arrange a repair, replacement, or refund as appropriate. See our full Shipping and Refunds Policy for details.
My prop was damaged during shipping. What do I do?
Take photos of the damage and the packaging before removing or handling anything. Then contact us with those photos and your order number. We'll file a claim with the carrier and arrange a repair or replacement. We insure all orders for this reason.
Can I send a prop back for repair or touch-up work?
Yes, we offer repair services for our props. Reach out to us with photos of the issue and we'll quote the repair. Customer is responsible for shipping costs to us; we cover return shipping on repair orders.
The paint chipped on my prop. How do I fix it?
Minor paint chips are a normal result of regular use and can be touched up easily. We recommend keeping a small amount of the base color paint (noted in your order documentation) for touch-ups. A thin brush and matching paint can blend in chips invisibly. If you don't have the original color, contact us and we'll tell you the specific paint we used.
About Lone Star Cosplay
Where are you based?
We're based in Houston, Texas. All of our props are designed and built right here in the Lone Star State.
Who makes the props?
Lone Star Cosplay is a small, passion-driven workshop run by a team of cosplayers who understand what it means to wear these costumes. Every piece that leaves our shop has been handled by someone who genuinely loves the source material.
Do you attend conventions?
We try to attend several Texas-area conventions each year, including events in Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. Follow us on social media to see where we'll be next. When we're at a convention, we often bring props for display and demo — it's a great chance to see the quality in person before ordering.
Can I visit your workshop?
We're not a traditional retail store, but we do occasionally host local pickup and workshop visits by appointment. If you're in the Houston area and want to see a prop in person before ordering, reach out and we'll see if we can make it work.
