8-Bit Star Wars R2-D2 Pixel Wall Art Tutorial

A step by step tutorial on how to make an 8-bit R2-D2 from Star Wars.

Hello, everyone in this post I’m sharing details on how I made an 8-bit R2-D2 from Star Wars. I made R2-D2 using the same technique I used to create a few of my other pixel art creations like 8-bit Link, Goomba, Lakitu, Spiny, Koopa Troopa and Blooper.

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Tools and Supplies

The following items are some of the tools and supplies I gathered to make 8-bit R2-D2:

TOOLS

• Jigsaw or a bandsaw
• Orbital Sander
• Router with 60 degree v-groove bit
• Clamp edge guide
• Kreg Mobile Project Center
• Ruler

SUPPLIES

• 2′ x 2′ plywood – 1/2″ thick
• Acrylic craft paints (white, black, blue and red)
• Primer spray paint
• Clear coat
• Sand paper

WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIAL

Click play and watch the video tutorial below.  The video shows how I made pixel Link, but the general steps remain the same for pixel R2-D2. For more woodworking videos, CLICK HERE to subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Continue reading for the written tutorial.

How to make R2-D2

Here’s how to make R2-D2 in 5 easy steps.

Step 1: Draw a grid on a piece of plywood.

Use a ruler to mark grid lines space 0.75″ apart.

Step 2: Use a router and route a v groove along the grid lines

Install a v-groove router bit and route along the grid lines. Use a clamp edge guide to ensure straight lines

Step 3: Cut out the silhouette of R2-D2’s shape

I followed a pixel grid for R2-D2 that I found online. Here’s the source of my image.

Trace out the silhouette of R2-D2 and then cut out the R2-D2’s shape with a jigsaw (or use a bandsaw).

Step 4: Sand and prep the surface for paint

Sand between the grooves and sand the surface of R2-D2.  I used scrap piece of wood to support the sandpaper as I sanded between the grooves.

Step 5: Paint the pixels

Paint each pixel on R2-D2. Painting between the grooves is a little tricky. Use painters tape to maintain clean lines. I was impatient and used paint brushes for painting miniatures to paint in the crevices. 

If necessary, apply multiple layers of paint. Once the paint is dried, protect the finish with a clear coat.

8-Bit R2-D2

Install some hanging hardware and enjoy!

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What do you think of the pixel R2D2? Leave a comment below!