A few questions to be asked :3

[FlyingGoat]

Hey guys! Just a few question to be asked to you veteran cosplayers, or anyone who
basically knows how stuff works xD

What can I substitute PVC pipes with if I were to build stilts?
I'm kinda heavy, so I'm quite unsure if PVC pipes could support my weight.
In case you're wondering, I weigh 99 kilograms (pretty heavy, eh?)

Could I use cardboard instead of foam? Foam is kinda pricey and I'm kinda on a low budget.
I was thinking to smooth out the cardboard foundation with newspapers and a LOT of glue
because I am pretty sure Plasti-Dip isn't sold in my country. Even if it was, its really difficult to find
and it'll probably be expensive.

Anyways, thanks for answering! I'm still new to the cosplaying world, anyways. :3

[Lamia]

I haven't built a space marine, but I assume that is what you're leaning towards with your question on stilts.

Some builds have used wooden blocks instead of PVC pipes. It will make your boots heavier, but will be more sturdy and stable, particularly if you are concerned about your weight.

You can use any material you like, but I would suggest that you buy a package of foam as you need it, rather than investing in a stack of armor's-wprth right off the bat. That will allow you to learn the material, and build a section at a time, as well as saving money.

I hope this helps!

[vonjankmon]

I guess just for reference I used PVC for the stilts in my suit and I weigh 86 kilograms (assuming google did the conversion correctly) and I don't have the slightest concern over them holding up.

I think the issue with cardboard is going to be the areas that have a more rounded shape to them will be very hard to do without foam. You could always go the cardboard covered with fiberglass route, which you can sand to make smooth surfaces but I don't think that will be much savings and is a real mess.

[Brother Androx]

Here's a link to the photos of my boot build.  I think it's also posted on the SM board here at the OC.
I used foam for the boots,  attached them to a piece of plywood, then filled the boots with a product called Sika Post Fix.  And trust me it'll support you.  I have a rugby player frame and around 115. 

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/yy219sr7o04xwya/AADPL84xEZ0Xcv_UJ8MXbzyUa?dl=0

And don't use cardboard.  Take your time and buy what you can afford at a time.  Sadly, a good SM costume isn't cheap but it's totally worth it.  If you go the cheap route, it'll look like a cheap costume and you won't be happy.
Mine took 10 months to build because I didn't want to spend a ton of money up front. 

[Brother Androx]

http://www.obscuruscrusade.com/forum/index.php?topic=2838.0

Search is your friend

[FlyingGoat]

Thank you very much, everyone, for your generous and helpful replies. I will keep them in mind and apply what I can to my cosplay build. Again, thank you!