It’s rare to find someone who has worn metal armor, let alone handcrafted it, but not for Gideon Choi, passionate metalworker. Metalworking, specifically making metal armor, has been a newfound and strong passion of his; he has made several articles of clothing and armor out of chainmail in the past couple years.
It all started with Gideon’s freshman English class 20Time Project, where the students were able to devote every Monday pursuing something that interested them. Gideon had always been incredibly interested in history, particularly historical and Medieval warfare, through video games like Mordhau and Kingdom Come: Deliverance. Since medieval history was (and still is) one of his favorite topics to study, he initially planned on filming a historically accurate sword fighting sequence for the project. But as he researched more into historical fighting, Gideon eventually became immersed and fascinated with armor itself.
Gideon spent the entirety of freshman year creating a chainmail shirt and helmet, going through extensive research and trial and error, but by the end of the year, he had discovered a new hobby and great interest in such a unique field. When quarantine struck in March 2020, Gideon picked up chainmail-making once again and engaged on new projects, which have been ongoing since then.
In order to engage in a metalworking project, Gideon first picks an item to make and does quite a lot of research on what it entails. He then gets to planning, first creating a budget and then buying the proper tools and equipment. After many trials and tribulations, Gideon will work long and hard to finally create the object in mind until his satisfaction. For Gideon, it’s the process of making the objects that’s his favorite part -- the creative process usually leads to something “pretty cool,” and it can also help him relax, as he notes that it is often therapeutic to work on such projects.
Gideon’s always looking to embark on new projects to add to his already-extensive list (which include making candles, hammering sheet metal, and creating chainmail armor), and in the future, Gideon hopes to learn more about the medieval world through research and hands-on work.
Gideon’s advice for others trying to find their passion?
“It is best to start out simple, and to not overestimate your skills. Use what you have and try to refrain from spending too much!”
Comments