Tips on sculpting armor around joints?

It's a Marvel Legends Drax, the new one from the movie. I've figured out most of what I'm going to do but that torso hinge seems like it's going to be difficult. I do have one idea though so that won't be as difficult as I expected if this idea works.

I also have a S.H. Figuarts Nami that I'm planning to put armor over and the torso joint there looks like it's going to be more of an issue because while I'm leaving the stomach exposed, the shirt just doesn't seem like it'll offer much leeway for armor plates. Maybe I'll have to dremel some of that away, she's bustier than I want my figure anyway and that'll only be worsened by adding sculpt. My bigger issue with her is I was going to sculpt boots over her sandals, and the heel is fine but the toes I'd like to try to keep movement in but I'm not entirely sure if its possible or how to go about it.

Where are you trying to sculpt over? If it's the shoulder balls, you'll need to dremmel some off the shoulder balls, just take enough off to fit your sculpt in.