As a student at NWTC, Matthew Paider is majoring in prototyping and design, but it’s clear his passion for creative, hands-on work began long ago.
“I’ve been fascinated with art and the creative process for as long as I can remember,” said Paider, who has a particular affinity for Star Wars cosplay. A “tinkerer at heart,” he creates costumes and armor for the 501st Legion and Mandalorian Mercs – worldwide organizations that revolve around the recreation of screen accurate costumes to promote activism and charity within local communities.
Paider also loves making miniature models for tabletop wargaming – where players use strategy to move their mini warriors across the tabletop battlefield.
“I enjoy the uniqueness and personality that each figure/model brings to the gaming table,” Paider said. “So much gravity and story can be held in such a small package – it’s outstanding!”
In 2020, Paider established an Etsy site, Incendiary Creations, to “share a bit of that magic” and expand the collections of fellow gamers nationwide. Through his Etsy shop, he ships scaled model miniatures to gamers and collectors throughout the United States and completes custom orders as well.