Cosplay 101

Explain what cosplay is. Why people cosplay?

� Select a cosplay.

� Choose a character you LIKE

� A skill level you can do

� Research the character: how they walk, talk, likes, dislikes, etc

� Get reference photos: front, back, close ups, detail work, props, etc.

� Make a plan (Fast vs. Good vs. Cheap)

� How long do you have?

� How much money do you want to spend?

� Decide HOW you want to make the outfit

� what materials, what methods, the cut, the fit, etc

� how will it go on/off?

� Zipper, Snaps, Velcro, Hooks, Magnets, etc

� Research the method if it’s new

� Do tests and try different methods out

� Decide WHAT supplies you need

� make a list of ALL of the supplies you’ll need

� find out WHERE you’ll get them from

� how much of each material you need

� Decide WHERE you’ll make the outfit

� Work space and storage space are not the same thing

Making the Cosplay!

� Wigs

� Outfit

� Accessories

� Prop

� Make-up

� Wigs

� Types of wigs

� Where to get/not get wigs

� Altering wigs

� Wefting

� Styling

� Outfit

� Choose fabric to match the cosplay and budget

� Use altered clothes

� Cut fabric

� Prepare the fabric!!!

� Serge it/sew the sides and wash it!

� Dye the fabric

� Use patterns

� Store bought pattern vs. home made pattern (ex: thrift store method)

� Make outfit

� Use correct needles, thread, interfacing, paints, etc, etc, etc

� Shoes

� WEAR/MAKE COMFORTABLE SHOES

� Accessories

� Beads, Sculpty, molds, casting, dyes, paints, and etc

� Glues, magnets, snaps, wire, and invisible thread

� Sealant

� Have things your character would/might have

� Get creative and funny

� Props

� Careful of the WEIGHT

� Base structure

� Foam, plastic, cardboard, trash, etc

� Strength structure

� Plastic (wonderflex), celluclay, papier-mâché, bondo, fiberglass, etc

� Visual Structure and Detailing

� Celluclay, sculpy, gesso, latex/outdoor paints, SANDING!

� Paint job

� Start with a Primer and/or a Base of the correct color

� Acrylic

� Spray paint

� Enamels

� Sealant

� Polyurethane, shellac, lacquer, etc

� Epoxy resin

� Glossy vs Matt

� Make-up

� Wear make-up! Yes, even guys.

� Minimum: Foundation and Neutral/Transparent Powder

� Eye Make-up, blush, lipstick

� Effects Make-up, prosthetics, and spirit gum

At the Con!

� Stay in character

� Act, talk, walk, etc

� Photos

� Move out of busy hallways and walkways

� Get good light

� POSE! Dramatic and dynamic!

Questions!!!

At end of Panel: Restate…

� Introduction

� Answer any questions