If you’re a fan of Thor, the mighty God of Thunder from the Marvel Universe, or you simply love creating unique props for Halloween or cosplay, we have the perfect project for you. In this DIY guide, we’ll show you how to make an upcycled Thor hammer using everyday items like an old yoga block and a broken broom handle. With a few additional supplies and a little creativity, you can craft a stunning replica of Mjolnir, Thor’s iconic weapon. Get ready to wield the power of Asgard!
Materials Needed:
- Old yoga block or other foam block
- Broken broom handle, replacement hammer handle, or wooden dowel
- Spray paint or other household paint (matte grey)
- Metallic craft paint (silver)
- Scrap leather
- Silver stretchy cord
- Glue gun and glue sticks
- Hot glue
Step 1: Preparing the Yoga Block and Broom Handle
To begin, ensure your broom handle is cut to the desired length (for my son who was 8 at the time, this was a total of 15″, with 10″ showing for the handle, and 5″ to inserted into the block). If you don’t have an old broken broom around (perhaps your spouse doesn’t keep everything in hopes it will become useful someday???), replacement hammer handles are pretty reasonable on Amazon or at your local hardware store. Next, pre-drill a hole in the yoga block that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the handle. Apply a generous amount of hot glue or any craft glue to the handle and insert it firmly into the pre-drilled hole, creating a secure fit. Allow the glue to dry completely.
Step 2: Preparing and Painting the Hammer
It was a challenge to determine the best way to add an Asguardian design to the yoga block. In my pre-kid days, I would’ve enjoyed spending ages painting on a precise, celtic(ish) design. As a busy mom with a full time job and a side hustle, we strongly adhere to the “done is better than perfect” motto in our family now, so a quick messy diamond pattern was our plan. Using hot glue, I piped on the pattern on all the beveled edges of the block.
Once you are satisfied with your design, prepare your paint area. Start by spray painting the yoga block and lower end of the handle with the matte grey spray paint, or any other household paint. We used old rust protector paint, but if you don’t have any grey handy, check your local restore or habitat for humanity store for leftover paint. Apply two coats to ensure full coverage, hiding the original colour of the yoga block or foam. Once the paint is dry, use the silver metallic craft paint to add an imperfect layer to the hammer. This will create an aged appearance by allowing bits of the grey base coat to peek through. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different brush strokes and techniques.
Step 3: Wrapping the Handle
Cut a piece of scrap leather to the desired length for wrapping the handle, and reserve a small length for the wrist strap. Luckily, our broken broom had a handle with a hole for hanging the wrist strap. If your broom handle doesn’t have a hole at the end, secure the strap to the handle using hot glue before wrapping it. Apply hot glue to the main leather piece and carefully wrap it smoothly around the handle, ensuring a tight and neat fit. Use additional hot glue to secure and seal the seam end of the leather in place. For added durability, wrap the ends of the leather with brown thread, securing it with knots to prevent the glue from coming undone.
Step 4: Adding the Finishing Touches
To give your Thor hammer an authentic look, wrap the entire length of the handle with the silver stretchy cord. Ours was leftover from a bit of craft jewellery making, and is available at the dollar store, Amazon or any craft store. Begin by wrapping the cord over itself with a few loops tightly at one end. Then begin travelling down the lenght of the handle at an angle, leaving approximately 1/2″ to 1″ spacing between each wrap. Continue wrapping until you reach the end of the handle, making sure the cord is taut and neatly aligned. Secure the end with several extra wraps of cord and a dab of hot glue.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created your own DIY upcycled Thor hammer, a fantastic prop for Halloween, cosplay, or even display purposes. By repurposing materials like an old yoga block and a broken broom handle, you’ve not only embraced sustainability but also showcased your creativity and craftsmanship. Now, with Mjolnir in hand, you can channel the power of the God of Thunder and bring your favorite character to life. Prepare to embark on epic adventures and command the forces of nature—worthy of any Asgardian warrior!
It’s all made with love!
