Episode Details

A Galaxy of Builders

In a galaxy not so far away — right here in the Bay Area — passionate fans are building their own droids. Since I’m part of a Star Wars costuming club myself, I see these amazing droids often.

These droids are full-scale replicas, indistinguishable from the screen-used droids of Star Wars. They are perfect down to the last detail, to the point that Lucasfilm calls out the Bay Area Droid Builders when they need a droid for an event.

Case in point, back in October 2023, an event was held at the old Industrial Light & Magic site (“32 TEN”) to bid farewell to the space before it was gone forever. The actor who plays C-3PO was there (not Anthony Daniels, the younger one who still wears the suit), and when Lucasfilm needed an astromech, they called upon the Bay Area Droid builders.

So, yes, the Bay Area Droid Builders are the real deal.

They are part of a a global movement of makers who share resources, blueprints, and know-how to bring astromechs and other Star Wars machines to life.

How It Works

Droids can be made from just about anything: aluminum, styrene plastic, or more commonly these days, 3D printing.

“You don’t really need to know anything going into this. I didn’t know anything — I’m not a robotics person. But I was able to figure it out with the club,” says Brian Munger, a Bay Area builder.

With guidance from more experienced members, even beginners can start with basics like RC-controlled motors before advancing to stealth pocket controllers, servos, and complex panel systems.

The Long Build

One thing all builders agree on: these projects take time. “It took me about two years,” Munger explains. “That seems to be the going pace for most people.”

Between printing or machining parts, wiring motors and batteries, and adding details like light kits, each droid becomes a years-long labor of love.

Why It Matters

The result is more than just a prop. These droids roll through conventions, maker fairs, and charity events, delighting kids and adults alike. They spark curiosity about robotics, engineering, and creativity — and they create instant community among the builders themselves. As Munger puts it: “It’s amazing the magic that you’re able to create”

Bonus Content: Meet D Squad

While the Bay Area Droid Builders focus on screen-accurate astromechs, another club in the region takes a different approach. D Squad mixes functional R2 units with more unconventional builds, including a full-size battle droid and Flo, the diner bot from the Star Wars universe.

Read the full article at droids.substack.com

#robotics #droidbuilders #bayareadroidbuilders