Update - used cardboard and duck tape to make the handles, the crocheted around them.
Used white duck tape to prevent the cord from sliding off the polycarbonate tube, and cut one of the tubes in 1/2 so I could fit it in my suitcase. Planning on making a tutorial, stay tuned!! So happy to have figured this out!

Used basket cording and wool ease with stellina. Need to figure out what to do for the actual handles.

Ordered 3-d printed ones, but they’re too thin to drill through. Still might use wood.

Have to remake one of the blades because I found that a) antennaes (like from a tv/remote controlled car) aren’t strong enough, and b) retractable flagpoles are slightly thicker than I’d anticipated BUT are strong enough.

Saving for last because I probably won’t even be able to bring them inside the con because of their weapons policy. (Could use outside though? How do people get away with lightsabers? They’re pvc or plastic but they’re still heavy!)