Print Page - COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide

Title: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 15, 2016, 07:54:42 PM

Greeting fellow Jedi & Sith. If you are reading this then you are obviously interested in getting involved in cosplaying. However, if you are anything like me, you might have found the whole concept scary and confusing at first with no clear starting point. There are thousands of pages all over the internet dedicated to cosplay. I found that many of them are more geared towards the more experienced cosplayer rather than beginners, so I thought I would make this post as a guide to help you out.

This is more a guide for those who are new to cosplaying. It will include some information about the history of cosplaying and some handy tips and advice on things you will need to consider when making your costume. It is not a collection of places you can go to buy costumes or accessories, although there is a link to a saberforum thread that does have such a list (see bottom of the post for links).

PLEASE NOTE - I am by no means a professional cosplayer or costume designer. I have just done a LOT of research into cosplaying and wanted to share what I learned with other newbies. If you were undecided before about cosplaying, hopefully you might be inspired to actually do it.

MASSIVE THANKS - To both Darth Justicar and B1ondeange1 for their contributions. You're both awesome!!

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What is Cosplaying: A Brief Introduction
The actual word "cosplay" was invented by a Japanese reporter in 1984 as a portmanteau of the English terms "costume" and "role-play". Nov Takahashi was sent to report on the goings-on of the '84 WorldCon, being held that year in Los Angeles, CA. He coined the word to help describe what he saw going on at WorldCon - people wearing costumes in the halls, and a stage masquerade featuring the biggest and brightest of the costumes of the weekend.

Even though cosplay as a pastime was around long before that weekend in 1984, the term has been used ever since and thanks to the explosion in geek culture and lots more media coverage, the pastime has increased massively in popularity.

(For more information on the history of cosplay
http://www.strangelandcostumes.com/history.html)

Who can Cosplay?

(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w428/T-challa/image_zpsiph2gijc.jpeg) (http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/T-challa/media/image_zpsiph2gijc.jpeg.html)

Says it all really.

Things to consider - Many people have been put off from even attempting to cosplay because of fear of ridicule/comments from others. You may encounter so-called "purists" that are not fans of universe crossovers, mashups or crossplay (women cosplaying as male characters for example) or people cosplaying as a character of a different ethnic origin. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but you have a right to cosplay as absolutely any character you want to and never let anyone tell you differently. We're all fans and should be as inclusive as we can and you will find the vast majority of people you meet or chat with online are supportive and welcoming.

(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w428/T-challa/1F1662D781042BF47C49EE359E1F4FF5A3025F1A_zpshnuqwu6v.jpeg) (http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/T-challa/media/1F1662D781042BF47C49EE359E1F4FF5A3025F1A_zpshnuqwu6v.jpeg.html)

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Why do people Cosplay?
Everyone has there reason for wanting to cosplay. For some it is an outlet that allows them to learn new skills and express their creative side. For others it is a great way of meeting and networking with like-minded individuals. And some even do it to raise money for charity or to be a real life superhero for the day.

Whatever the reason for wanting to cosplay there are certain factors that need to be considered, most namely time, money, effort and overall, love. Even though for many cosplay is a hobby, it is a big commitment. However, for many it is worth it for a chance to showcase your love of a character, a movie universe or tv series and enjoy the satisfaction that comes of making something and having your efforts acknowledged.

Having a definite plan and a budget in place before you start can help you avoid over-spending and stopping the costume build before it is complete due to frustration.

Things to consider - Cosplay is supposed to be fun. It is okay to be nervous when attending a Convention for the first time as you can take some friends with you for moral support. Also, you might want to think about joining a costume group on Facebook. It's a great way to connect with other people and make friends with people who you can arrange to meet up with at a specific conventions.

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STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO MAKING A COSTUME
1 - Choose a costume
Believe it or not, this is a difficult stage in cosplay because a lot of people don't know what to cosplay or have difficulty deciding on some; there are so many great characters to choose from.

In Star Wars, you have choice between creating an original character or choosing one from canon. It's best to choose a character that you admire or are REALLY familiar with. Some people choose a character they physically resemble to dress like. Then you must ask: "which costume?". Some characters appear in several different costumes or costume variants. And finally, what kind of level of detail do you want to go to?

If you're a beginner with no experience of costuming, the easier the costume the better! Never underestimate costumes that look easy; they could turn out to be a nightmare.

Helpful hint - I found creating and writing down a full character backstory incredibly helpful when designing an original character.

2 - Research, Research, Research
Research is key. Go online and save pictures from as many angles as you can find. Also try and find drawings, sketches or screenshots, anything that you think can be of use. Numerous pictures makes it easier to create a costume that is as accurate as possible.

It also helps to find pictures of other people who do cosplay; it might inspire you with new ideas. Also, reference pictures are very useful when you need to purchase matching items (you can show the pictures to people and say "I need that wig" or "I need help finding that cloth" when you're shopping for materials).

Asking people questions on the forum is also a good way of finding out how they made/where they bought certain items.

Helpful hint - Probably the best website to find information on both canon and old expanded universe characters is www.starwars.wikia.com

3 - Budget
When it comes to cosplay I think there are three levels:

i) Beginner – the individual just wants to dress as the character.
ii) Intermediate – the individual wants to dress as a character, but make the overall aesthetic unique to them. Elements of the costume are bought and adapted or made from scratch.
iii) Advanced – Most of the costume is made.

As mentioned before, while cosplaying is a hobby, it can become expensive. But that depends on the kind of character you want to do and how much detail you want to include.

Some costumes have been made very cheaply using household items like painted cardboard. Some costumes have been professionally made by costume designers. This is where budget comes into play as well as your skill level/confidence sewing & glueing things.

3.1 - Bought vs Made Costumes
Not everyone enjoys sewing or spending years making a suit or armour. Some people are not comfortable or have no experience sewing. Therefore, one option for them to cosplay is to buy a costume or have a costume made for them rather than make it themselves. However, some people decide to challenge/push themselves and make the costume themselves.

Benefits of bought costumes:
There are two kinds of costumes you can buy; generic costumes and custom made.

Generic costumes are similar to a Halloween costume. You can find them on eBay and other sites. They will generally be mass produced and most likely won't be top quality. However, if you think it is better than what you can do, it is a quick and easy option.

Custom made costumes are made for you by costume designers. They can make a reality any costume design you can think of. The costume will be made really well with quality material and take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months to make.

Benefits of making costumes (taken from a post written by B1ondeange1)
a) Cost
b) Fit- I have always had troubles getting clothes to fit my body shape properly, being female and all, and most off the shelf costumes are not designed for women who are that little bit bigger.
c) Satisfaction and enjoyment - I love making my own costumes and challenging what I am capable of.

PLEASE REMEMBER - There is no "right" or "wrong way!

3.2 - Monitor your spending!
Whether you decide to make your costume or have it made for you, just remember, whether you spend a lot or a little money on it doesn't mean it will or will not be good!

If you are making costume, set out a chart of all the materials you'll need according to your references (cloth, paint, thread, footwear, wig, straps, leather etc) You may find out that the costume is currently out-of-reach with how much money you have, so plan wisely!

4 - Timing
Timing is everything. It is never too early to start making your costume. Measure the time between today and the day of the convention. General rule of thumb is to allow about 3-4 months to make a costume depending on how much time a day you spend on it. Although, it never hurts to finish it early (working last minute is NOT a fun thing to do).

One option is to get a calendar and write down what you plan to do on certain weeks and months (i.e. Spend this week sewing the pants, spend the next week sewing the shirt, spend the next month making the mask etc).

5 - Materials
Make a shopping list of everything you need for your costume. If you cannot get everything in one go, use your calendar (as mentioned in step 4) to determine what materials you can get right now.

There a number of craft stores and markets where you can pick up the materials you need. You can also get creative by visiting charity/thrift shops and purchasing cheap items that can be upcycled and used as part of your costume. That's a great way of getting material (sometimes very unique and original material) very cheaply.

Handy Tip: - Beware of what you buy. Some materials might be toxic, break easily or could become sun worn very easily. Also, each convention has rules about costumes and props. Make sure you are aware of what they are.

6 - Construction
Now is the time to buckle down and make the costume. There will be times when you get frustrated or stuck. Don't get disheartened. Stick to your plan and think about the end game - attending a convention in your very own costume.

7 - Completion
Once the costume is finished, take lots of pictures and post them proudly on the site.

8 - Go to the convention and have fun!

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Trolls

"You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there's still going to be somebody who hates peaches." ― Dita Von Teese.

There will always be people who will rudely criticise you or make derogatory comments. Sometimes the criticisms aren't even about the costume or the character, but rather about things such as racism, sexism, slut-shaming, fatshaming, shaming cosplayers in wheelchairs, shaming cosplayers with visible physical indicators, and other forms of discrimination.

Talented cosplayer Darth Justicar had this to say on the subject when I asked her opinion:
"I almost wish I didn't have to write this last part, but there is something else I wanted to say about ladies in cosplay, from a female perspective. Unfortunately this is a real problem I perceive in the cosplay world, and some of it owes to the way female characters are often depicted in the media. It has to do with the overt sexualization that often feels as though it is expected of women. Personally I wish we saw fewer instances of women feeling like they have to bare a lot of skin or make themselves uncomfortable to receive anyone's esteem. It is not a requirement.

For me, there are clear limits on what I would do. If I would not feel comfortable if pictures of me somehow leaked out and were seen by my coworkers and boss, I won't do it. Not to mention my area's cons are in the cool seasons and I am not about to freeze for fashion. I also take the character's own emphasis on sexuality into account, even though I am playing a male character, since if there is one thing I personally cannot stand, it's sexualizing an outfit for absolutely no reason.

In a nutshell, there is more than one approach for ladies in cosplay. But just like with accuracy, make sure you are completely comfortable with what YOU are doing, and do not ever feel the need to settle for other people's expectations."

*********

Obviously derogatory comments are tantamount to bullying and such things are never acceptable, but it can be a massively blow to confidence if you are on the receiving end of such comments.

If it happens at a convention, thankfully many of them take great pride in being safe spaces, with strict guidelines in place, and security on-site to assist with situations. If someone ever says or does something that makes you uncomfortable, tell them, even if they're wearing a media or staff badge, or a celebrity guest, tell them. If it happens online reporting, blocking and banning are useful tools, so never be afraid to use them.

Haters gonna hate. This is a topic I could write about for hours, however, keep in mind that trolls are very much in a minority; the rest of the cosplay community and convention going public will no doubt appreciate your costume, so wear it with pride.

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List of handy sites/saberforum threads
Costume buying guide - A place where you can find costume designers/websites for your costume
http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=11068.0

Guide to specific Star Wars costumes - A place where you can find information on making specific Star Wars costumes
http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=13555.0

Belt pouch tutorial - Cosplaying as a Jedi or Sith? You'll need a pouch. Why not make your own.
http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=14403.0

Star Wars costume groups - Offical Lucasfilm approved costuming group that raise money for charity
501st/Rebel Legion - http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=15850.0

Sith costuming group - A costuming group that welcomes original Sith costumes
The Dark Empire - http://www.thedarkempire.org/

Movie Costumes - An interview with the costumer design from Star Wars: The Force Awaken
http://tyrannyofstyle.com/star-wars-force-awakens-costume-design

Title: Re: Cosplay 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 15, 2016, 07:55:57 PM

Authenticity vs Creativity
One of the biggest pet peeves among some cosplayers is accuracy. They feel by not paying attention to details of the characters costume, those cosplayers are doing the character a disservice. However, on the flip side of the coin, there is the argument for originality: sacrificing an accurate portrayal of the character in favour of being creative and brining something original to the table.

So the question is this: At what point does a costume stop being an homage to a beloved character and become simply an "inspired" piece or even a completely "original" piece? For an answer, let me introduce talented cosplayer Darth Justicar.

"When it comes to screen accuracy versus a creative cosplay approach with more leeway, I don't think there's a single right answer for this for every cosplayer. We all have different budgets, different comfort levels, and different talents. The point of it all is to have fun, and if it's causing you stress then you don't need to subject yourself to whatever it is that is making you feel that way. Sometimes the "right answer" isn't even the same every time, for the very same person.

I've taken both approaches, as a female cosplayer who has only ever played male characters. One of the interesting things about playing a character of a different gender, race, or physical appearance, is that depending on what approach you decide to take with it, you really can run with the leeway this gives you.

In two cases, I've chosen to create a female version of the character, which gave me some incredible leeway to build the costume around wardrobe items--especially my Lady Sherlock look, a cosplay that happened quite by accident when someone pointed out that my hair resembled the BBC version of the character, and it then hit me that I had ladies' versions of almost every clothing item that was part of the iconic BBC Sherlock look, in my work wardrobe.

For a brand-new cosplayer especially, or someone with a strict budget to adhere to, this can be a great way to take away some of the self-perceived pressure to achieve an exact look.

Most recently though, I've decided to try a closer-to-accurate look with another cosplay--Kylo Ren. Even there I have to realize I'm not going to look exactly like I walked off of the screen. I'm not 6'3", and I'm definitely not the right gender. But if you are aiming for a more accurate look in a situation like this, in my opinion the best favour you can do yourself is to ensure that whether you feel up to doing it yourself, or you commission a costume, that your outfit fits you.

Whatever your physique is, whether you're totally happy with it or you wish some things about it were different, good tailoring is going to make you feel like you own that outfit, like you belong in it, and that really is more than half the game right there. This can get pricey depending on how far you decide to push it--so my only recommendation is that if you are planning to do this, do it not because someone is pressuring you or because you feel like your look is not "good enough" somehow. Do it because you love the idea of being that character so much that you want to on your own."

Things to remember - The devil is in the details. Small accessories like pouches and straps can be the difference between a "good" costume and a "great" costume.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Kham-Ryn Kurios on January 15, 2016, 08:10:25 PM

Delightful thread, Knox. It is very well put together. +1

I support this being "stickied." ;D

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 15, 2016, 08:11:45 PM

Quote from: Kham-Ryn Kurios on January 15, 2016, 08:10:25 PM

Delightful thread, Knox. It is very well put together. +1

I support this being "stickied." ;D

Thank you. it turned out really well. I'd be honoured if it was "stickied."

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Rogu3Wo1f on January 16, 2016, 02:34:02 AM

Something to consider as well with costumes.

'Do I want it now? Or do I want it perfect? And do I want to do it cheaply?'

You can only pick two of those, chose wisely and be patient.

Art cannot be rushed.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: skullsquadronx on January 16, 2016, 06:00:43 AM

Darth Knox Like what you did here, point to you+1.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 16, 2016, 10:56:07 AM

Quote from: skullsquadronx on January 16, 2016, 06:00:43 AM

Darth Knox Like what you did here, point to you+1.

Thanks for the point.

Quote from: Rogu3Wo1f on January 16, 2016, 02:34:02 AM

I agree with all those questions.
And great art cannot be rushed. But the waiting sucks! Lol ;D

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 16, 2016, 11:48:00 AM

(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w428/T-challa/image.jpg2_zpsthozkowh.jpg) (http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/T-challa/media/image.jpg2_zpsthozkowh.jpg.html)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Roband on January 17, 2016, 05:28:08 AM

Brilliant Description; only thing I would add is that for the hobyist; it is
Cos-PLAY
rather than Cos-Work

so, unless somebody is paying you for an appearance; if you are going to a convention dressed as your favorite character to enhance your enjoyment, nobody has a right to tell you wether you are doing it "right" or "wrong" you are dressing up fro your own enjoyment and experience, so take any and all criticism with a grain of salt, and do what brings YOU pleasure out of the hobby.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 17, 2016, 11:52:44 AM

Quote from: Roband on January 17, 2016, 05:28:08 AM

Well said. Point to you

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Rogu3Wo1f on January 17, 2016, 04:22:30 PM

Just to answer your question on another thread, I have checked this out Darth Knox.

Also, it's important for Beginners to know, that sometimes places like The RPF, Rebel Legion and 501st can be quite elitist and sometimes it's best to not worry too much about their opinions.

Cosplay is supposed to be a fun hobby and a skill you develop from small beginnings and doing what you can with the skills you have and the help you can get from threads like this. So don't worry too much if the Rebel Legion freaks out because the crinkles in your tunic aren't 'correct' just do what you want for the character you want and have fun.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 17, 2016, 04:45:27 PM

Quote from: Rogu3Wo1f on January 17, 2016, 04:22:30 PM

Oh most definitely. I was surprised at how strict their costume rules are. I understand that they want everyone to strive for "screen accuracy" but I found it very off-putting as I didn't feel I could make a costume to their standards without spending an absolute fortune (and I just want to dress up and have fun at a convention). You're definitely right that beginners might not be best off not worrying about the big established costume groups.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on January 17, 2016, 04:53:06 PM

Quote from: Rogu3Wo1f on January 17, 2016, 04:22:30 PM

I wouldn't say that they are elitists so much as perfectionists.

The 501st and Rebel Legion have an image to uphold and are very much in the public eye given their direct affiliation with official Star Wars events, so they want their members to have the best costumes. They are picky because they HAVE to be in order to maintain that relationship and enjoy their official sanctioning by Lucasfilm.

As a member of The RPF, I feel I can say that they are not elitist at all. They are very welcoming to newcomers and are perfectly willing to offer advice, but you have to be wiling to do the research and put in the hours to do it. They aren't going to spoon feed it to you. Many of the members are industry professionals and have LOTS of experience making professional costumes and props actually used in Hollywood. Even Adam Savage is a member (though he rarely posts). This level of costuming and prop making is why they are perfectionists. Their careers depend on it, and "good enough" just isn't going to cut it. That said, most of the members, like myself, do it for fun and are also willing to help each other out.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 17, 2016, 04:59:26 PM

Quote from: Jev Moldara on January 17, 2016, 04:53:06 PM

That's all good information for newbies to know, which is why I started this thread: as a guide to help newbies from feeling overwhelmed

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Rogu3Wo1f on January 17, 2016, 05:04:54 PM

Quote from: Jev Moldara on January 17, 2016, 04:53:06 PM

I'm a member there too, and for the most part, it's a pretty friendly community, obviously everywhere have people that will look down on you for not being a professional costume designer and so on. Sometimes though, the level of perfection that some members have can be a little intimidating, at least to beginners.

I felt it was just important for beginners to not be too concerned with meeting the same sort of standards as professional Cosplayers. I meant no offence to the RPF as I appreciate the input I get from users there.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on January 17, 2016, 05:10:58 PM

Quote from: Rogu3Wo1f on January 17, 2016, 05:04:54 PM

That's the exact phrase I was looking for. It is intimidating, but if you are dead set on learning the craft, there's really no better community to do so.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 17, 2016, 05:15:47 PM

Everywhere cosplayer started somewhere. No-one was born a professional cosplayer ;)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Justicar on January 17, 2016, 07:33:59 PM

I definitely am not going for the 501st. Plus as strict as they are, you KNOW a 5'5" Kylo Ren isn't going to happen with them, period. If years down the line I end up shelling out for the Anovos helm or something, that will be for ME and not to satisfy anyone else. (My budget and timeline this year will NOT allow for that, whereas the Black Series helmet WAS something I could handle.)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Master Nero Attoru on January 17, 2016, 07:43:19 PM

Great topic! I stickied it so others can benefit from this info.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 17, 2016, 07:49:41 PM

Quote from: Master Nero Attoru on January 17, 2016, 07:43:19 PM

Great topic! I stickied it so others can benefit from this info.

Wow! Really? Awesome!

Big shout out again to Darth Justicar and B1ondeange1 for their contributions. ;D

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 17, 2016, 09:24:58 PM

Quote from: Darth Justicar on January 17, 2016, 07:33:59 PM

Surely 501st wouldn't reject a character due to the height of the individual? Would they? if they do then that is way too strict a list of rules and guidelines in my opinion

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Kham-Ryn Kurios on January 17, 2016, 11:13:38 PM

Quote from: Darth Knox on January 17, 2016, 09:24:58 PM

Surely 501st wouldn't reject a character due to the height of the individual? Would they? if they do then that is way too strict a list of rules and guidelines in my opinion

Exclusion based on height actually sounds like something the Empire would do. :D

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 17, 2016, 11:48:57 PM

Quote from: Kham-Ryn Kurios on January 17, 2016, 11:13:38 PM

Exclusion based on height actually sounds like something the Empire would do. :D

the empire, maybe. but we have a new look and focus now with the first order. we only take the best, no matter their height. and darth justicar has more than proved herself a welcome addition to the ranks of the darkside.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 18, 2016, 01:51:13 AM

Interesting link for those who are thinking of cosplaying as a storm trooper (all the trials and tribulations involved)

http://the-daily.buzz/real-life-starwars-stormtrooper/

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on January 18, 2016, 07:03:41 AM

Quote from: Darth Justicar on January 17, 2016, 07:33:59 PM

I definitely am not going for the 501st. Plus as strict as they are, you KNOW a 5'5" Kylo Ren isn't going to happen with them, period.

I don't think they have any height restrictions in place. What they are most concerned with is making sure that your costume is accurate and that you can accurately portray the character.

I have a friend in the 501st who is a Clonetrooper. He's 6'8 and towers over most everyone.

Height isn't a big deal.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 18, 2016, 03:32:00 PM

Here's a useful basic template for those wanting to sketch their own Jedi costume
(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w428/T-challa/JediTunic_obi-wan_all_c_zpsywmzvbfe.png) (http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/T-challa/media/JediTunic_obi-wan_all_c_zpsywmzvbfe.png.html)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Lord Raváge on January 20, 2016, 02:04:24 AM

Quote from: Darth Knox on January 18, 2016, 03:32:00 PM

Here's a useful basic template for those wanting to sketch their own Jedi costume
([url]http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w428/T-challa/JediTunic_obi-wan_all_c_zpsywmzvbfe.png[/url]) ([url]http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/T-challa/media/JediTunic_obi-wan_all_c_zpsywmzvbfe.png.html[/url])

Are the pants optional for the Jedi template? ;)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Justicar on January 20, 2016, 02:05:59 AM

Oh my, I sense a disturbance in the Force. O_O Good catch, Ravage!

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 20, 2016, 02:11:11 AM

Quote from: Lord Raváge on January 20, 2016, 02:04:24 AM

Are the pants optional for the Jedi template? ;)

Hehehe

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Lord Raváge on January 20, 2016, 02:14:33 AM

Quote from: Darth Justicar on January 20, 2016, 02:05:59 AM

Oh my, I sense a disturbance in the Force. O_O Good catch, Ravage!

Behold...a new skill..."Force Draft"!

..Although, as a Sith, if I saw someone show up in a Cosplay Jedi outfit sans pants using this template, I would fall out of character laughing hysterically because I know if would be someone from this forum... ;)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on January 20, 2016, 02:26:11 AM

Quote from: Lord Raváge on January 20, 2016, 02:04:24 AM

Are the pants optional for the Jedi template? ;)

It's not a tunic. It's a KILT!

This particular robe style comes from the Highlands of Tython.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Justicar on January 20, 2016, 02:41:48 AM

Quote from: Lord Raváge on January 20, 2016, 02:14:33 AM

Indeed, though I wonder how con security would take that. I suppose it would depend on...a lot of factors. ;)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 20, 2016, 07:12:39 AM

Quote from: Jev Moldara on January 20, 2016, 02:26:11 AM

It's not a tunic. It's a KILT!

This particular robe style comes from the Highlands of Tython.

I would LOVE to design a costume around one of my kilts.

Quote from: Lord Raváge on January 20, 2016, 02:14:33 AM

Behold...a new skill..."Force Draft"!

That could be a handy skill to have

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Justicar on January 20, 2016, 07:17:55 AM

"Force Draft." Yikes. The Dark Side companion to the recently-observed fashion Force power known as Force Volumize.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: B1ondeange1 on January 20, 2016, 07:24:26 AM

Quote from: Jev Moldara on January 17, 2016, 04:53:06 PM

Sadly I have to kinda partly disagree with you- you WILL run into elitists in clubs like these- but even local small clubs (of which I am part of) get the same rubbish- and sometimes those elitists are NOT the best costumes or costumers. But as Jev said you do have to take into account that any group that has gone as far as becoming a proper club do have an image to uphold and standards to set. They have a reputation to uphold. They can't just let any rag tag costume in. This doesn't mean that because YOUR costume doesn't meet standards that it isn't good. Far far from it! I've seen some amazing outfits that would never make the cut in a club like that but it doesn't make them any less impressive- you don't need to be screen accurate to look the part and look good, nor do you need master costume making abilities!

Those clubs have to have very high standards and as a result if you want to join one of these clubs you have to be prepared to take that into consideration- it will instantly shoot your costume price up. My first Jedi cost me like... I dunno maybe 40 or 50 bucks AUD for tunic, pants, robe, tabard and obi, using boots, belt etc I already had. It did the job and looked the part. I am currently making my SWTOR costume for RL entry and it has to be screen accurate- my current outfits do NOT meet standards. I'm expecting to spend at least $100- $150 on material alone, my boots cost me $50 (cheapest part of the whole thing!) and I bought a spare set as well, my belt is likely gonna be anywhere from $100-$300 depending on who I buy it through because it HAS to be custom made, and I'm going to have to get some 3D printing done for it as well.

This is an issue that the 405th Halo costuming club is running into- they are progressing from a forum with costuming members to a proper recognised club. There will have to be rules and standards, which they are still working on though they are looking at having different classes of costume standard so that those who make cheaper/ quicker costumes rather than 100% screen accurate aren't excluded. This will also upset some people. That is what happens. Even a local costuming club I'm part of has an approval process with charity approved and social approved costumes, because they have a reputation to keep and have to be somewhat professional. If you want to be invited back to events and expand out to new events you have to be somewhat professional.

Please keep all that in mind when you are dealing with people in those clubs. I try not to be an elitist but I do strive for perfection, as much as I can. This doesn't mean I think the costume you've put all the time and effort into to make it look great is automatically bad because it isn't screen accurate. If you ask me questions about how it could be more screen accurate then I will give you opinions with what limited knowledge I have, but I won't automatically dis you for it ;) I've seen some great basic or simple costumes that their simplicity is what makes them so awesome.

I will add an extra note to the costume designing/ creating process:

You have the right to make a character/ costume how you want. This includes your own intepretations on it- whether that be a bright pink storm trooper, or you've decided to have your Jedi with a purple robe, or a femmeplay of a male character- or even a male playing a female character! Just keep in mind the more you deviate from 'original' and the more you customise, the less recognisable you will be (and possibly the more snippy remarks and frowns you will get). Also if you are costuming a lesser known character especially from the huge field of anime or comic books then the general public are not going to know who you are. We Halo Spartans have been called everything from robots, to stormtroopers, to aliens, to Power Rangers, to space troopers, and even weirder things than that! That doesn't mean there is anything wrong with your costume BUT you must be prepared to accept that if you aren't as recognisable you may not get the attention you think you deserve.

Im sure I shall also be yelled at for this but women (or men even): if you decide to wear a skimpy costume then you must be prepared that you will get comments and looks as a result of it. People will notice if some body parts have more showing than covered. Again it is your right, and it is also your right that people don't use your outfit as an excuse to be derogatory or do anything to you as a result- whether that is leering or getting touchy feely. It is all harassment regardless. Put in short however, if you aren't comfortable with the idea of people taking pictures of you in that outfit and those pictures ending up online then you shouldn't be wearing it at an event. Also make sure that you keep your costume 'appropriate'. Keep it PG if you are in public ;) :P This can extend to 'normal' costumes as well- some people might find your costume offensive (whether fully covered or not). You have to consider this when going to a particular event. We had a guy turn up in a Nazi uniform one time to a charity event and we had a few members of the public very offended by this. Context is everything- if we had a Captain America and his costume was Red Skull then it would have been entirely different, even though it would have only been a case of changing a few badges over. Similarly, characters from particularly violent movies/ video games etc are often not allowed at kid's charity events because a) not recognisable and b) not suitable.

Quote from: Darth Knox on January 20, 2016, 07:12:39 AM

I would LOVE to design a costume around one of my kilts.

That could be a handy skill to have

Actually there is a kilted division in the RL :P It's a bit of a 'fun' aside thing :P In saying that there is actually also a RL cheerleaders division.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Molina00 on January 29, 2016, 06:14:14 PM

Based on my limited experience, I would say perfectionist is the right word. I'm sure there are some elitists out there, kind of hard not to be in such large organizations like that, but the people I have talked to on the 501st's clone forum and recruitment FB page have all been very friendly and helpful. I just started working on a Captain Rex costume which will hopefully be up to 501st standards.

Quote from: Jev Moldara on January 18, 2016, 07:03:41 AM

I would love to see a 6'8" clonetrooper. That sounds quite imposing.
I have seen others on their clone forum that were 5'2" and 5'5" so I don't think they have height restrictions either. I haven't read anything about restrictions based on height, weight or handicap. Just have to have an accurate costume.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on February 03, 2016, 02:56:31 PM

(http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w428/T-challa/12644755_1683236648613052_5968704689172064726_n_zpsqhprmssl.jpg) (http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/T-challa/media/12644755_1683236648613052_5968704689172064726_n_zpsqhprmssl.jpg.html)

thought this was funny

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Justicar on February 03, 2016, 04:48:29 PM

I'm laughing because my own outfit could be said to fall in the "what I really wear" category. Except it is also what I WISH I could wear too. I see stuff like the Padme outfit and...truthfully I am not sure why it is a four-layered men's outfit is fine with me but when I see that with a ladies' outfit it makes me run the other direction. :D

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on February 03, 2016, 06:07:31 PM

Quote from: Darth Justicar on February 03, 2016, 04:48:29 PM

Could it possibly be that it's because female cosplayers are "expected" to wear revealing outfits due to the preponderance of skimpy attire from both fictional characters and the "professional" cosplayers" who make them, including the "sexy" versions of regular cosplay?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Justicar on February 03, 2016, 06:10:12 PM

Hm...I mean more that, dealing with a more complex men's outfit doesn't bother me, but something like Padme's costume I'd look at it and be like, "Nope, looks like work."

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on February 03, 2016, 06:18:55 PM

Quote from: Darth Justicar on February 03, 2016, 06:10:12 PM

Hm...I mean more that, dealing with a more complex men's outfit doesn't bother me, but something like Padme's costume I'd look at it and be like, "Nope, looks like work."

Complex female cosplay costumes do tend to be more...elaborate.

As for the skimpy female costumes, I think that definitely stems from the source material like comics where female characters are as complex and well-written as male characters, but their costumes have always been far more revealing. Lots of reasons behind that of which Im sure we're all aware, so I can see why it transferred to cosplay.

However, taking a female character and intentionally making a revealing cosplay can be viewed in two ways; risque and unnecessary pandering to adolescent male fantasies or an empowering celebration of the female form.

Opinions definitely vary.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on February 03, 2016, 11:56:44 PM

What's a Sith or Jedi costume without a saber? But what colour to choose? Maybe this thread will help
http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=28356.0

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: ThreadJack on February 04, 2016, 07:04:28 PM

I'm actually a member of the Rebel Legion forums(same user name), as I have been intending to join as an X-Wing pilot, but that has been put on hold for various reasons, mostly financial, but also many others. Namely a lack of sewing skills(you have to sew pockets and what not onto the jumpsuit), and an inability to decide on a helmet design(you have a LOT of creativity and leeway allowed there, "no real world symbols" is essentially the only rule.)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Rapine on February 25, 2016, 08:57:11 AM

Quote from: Rogu3Wo1f on January 16, 2016, 02:34:02 AM

Agreed wholeheartedly.

Good, fast, or cheap. Choose two. It works that way for many things actually.

Great thread. I'm just getting into Cosplay myself. In fact, this summer I will attend my first con.

I hope to eventually have a custom outfit, but money and time dictate that I get pre-made this year.
(Hey, I just bought a saber. They aren't exactly giving them away).

I'm getting an Anakin one - fallen Anakin of course.

The boots, vambraces, and belt will be real leather. The tabbards are pleather.

It's not the look I wanted, but is good.

I'm not Anakin though. I have far less hair, am much older, and have both hands.

Perhaps a parallel universe Anakin, if he never lost his hand, or got burned by lava...and got old.

IDK.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on March 02, 2016, 12:27:38 AM

Quote from: Lord Rapine on February 25, 2016, 08:57:11 AM

Just dress in shades of blue and paint your skin to match. Bam. Instant Anakin Force Ghost (the REAL one).

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Rapine on March 02, 2016, 01:08:56 AM

Quote from: Jev Moldara on March 02, 2016, 12:27:38 AM

Just dress in shades of blue and paint your skin to match. Bam. Instant Anakin Force Ghost (the REAL one).

I've since taken steps to ensure that it does not look like Anakin at all. :) No paint required.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: GreyNight on May 18, 2016, 06:14:31 PM

Saw this on my FB page and thought it was quite fitting. :)

(https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13267771_1088994857825457_8637705682417554682_n.jpg?oh=3d258ec7031ffd560f643e5edaf0b7f4&oe=57D21B31)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Renaissance1459 on June 01, 2016, 11:41:09 AM

Thanks a lot for the guideline, Darth Knox...

My girlfriend and I have been thinking about wearing Jedi robe to a local toys fair/comic con in my country, but we did not know where to start from...Your guideline give us some good idea about what we must research on...

Thank you once again :)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on June 01, 2016, 02:16:48 PM

Quote from: Renaissance1459 on June 01, 2016, 11:41:09 AM

my pleasure. Glad you found it useful. Let me know if i can be of any further help

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jabari on August 18, 2016, 03:49:12 AM

Cosplay as any character you want to cosplay. Don't worry if your costume isn't as good as someone else's, because everyone has to start somewhere. Everyone's budget and skills are different. I personally had very basic sewing skills (middle school home ec class, mostly) before I started costuming. My first "official" cosplay was an X-Wing pilot assembled from a thrift store orange shirt and a black vest, with combat boots, orange pants, and a bike helmet I already had, and a flak vest made from an old t-shirt, duct tape, and rope. The whole thing cost less than $10 and took under a day to make. It wasn't great, but it was clearly recognizable
Since then, I've made everything from corsets and ballgowns to hand-drafted Jedi robes. I've learned all kinds of crazy skills. Some good sources on how to do stuff are The RPF, Instructables, Rebel Legion's forums, The Costumer's Manifesto...google the item you're looking to replicate, and someone probably has a few suggestions.

Right now I'm working on a screen-accurate Rey and Jyn Erso for membership into Rebel Legion. But I'm also eventually doing a totally non-acceptable Jedi similar to my avatar and hopefully a Twi'lek Jaden Korr from Jedi Academy II. Even if I do that one 100% screen accurate, it's not acceptable in Rebel Legion because it's a customizeable game character and doesn't fit their rules. But Rebel Legion is not the end-all-be-all of costuming - so I won't be able to cosplay Jaden Korr while representing Rebel Legion at an official Lucasfilm event, big deal. I can wear that costume anywhere else I want to.

My Star Wars costuming evolution goes something like this:
1. crappy Halloween Jedi costume - basically a vampire cape and tall boots with a toy lightsaber
2. recognizable thrift store X-Wing pilot costume
3. even crappier last-second Jedi Halloween costume - a poncho and a toy lightsaber
4. OK $10 Jedi costume with actual sewing involved but made from thrift store parts
5. Upgraded the $10 Jedi costume - accurate undertunic
6. much better sewn green Jedi costume, some good parts, some awful
7. indefinite hold on a barely started Darth Revan (the green Jedi originally had a Revan cape)
8. aborted KOTOR Star Forge Robes
9. upgraded the green Jedi robes to a new cloak, obi, and tabbards
10. indefinite hold on an accurate X-Wing pilot costume, barely started
11. after 10 years of thinking about it, I got as far as buying a few supplies and made one pattern piece for Jaden Korr
12. in-progress screen accurate KOTOR-era Jedi robes, down to the last 2 items but now on hold due to TFA
13. almost screen-accurate Jedi robe to go with the green Jedi, was going to remake the green Jedi properly but then TFA came out
14. for-fun "New Republic Corellian Jedi" - it was about 2/3 done, but it's so close to Jyn Erso that it's now being overhauled to use more of those parts
14. in-progress screen accurate Jedi Rey
15. in-progress screen accurate Jyn Erso

That's 17 years of improvement, there...and I'll finally have a screen accurate Star Wars costume (or possibly 3) by December. (I have other fandoms I cosplay, but Star Wars is the one with the least potential to use existing pieces - I have a 10th Doctor costume that cost $30 (not counting the shoes) because I randomly found everything I needed at thrift stores, for example.)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on August 18, 2016, 04:30:20 AM

Aside from my eternal quest to make a screen accurate Captain America costume, I am also planning on making a replica costume for my Star Trek Online character (the male one, not the female. I'm a little too heavy on the testosterone to portray a female character, unless it's a female ogre).

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on August 18, 2016, 01:26:03 PM

Quote from: Jev Moldara on August 18, 2016, 04:30:20 AM

nonsense. Have you not seen pictures of a slightly overweight guy with a beard cosplaying as princess leia in the gold bikini? If you want to do it, then do it. Have fun and take pictures.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Rathayatra on August 18, 2016, 01:47:20 PM

Quote from: Darth Knox on August 18, 2016, 01:26:03 PM

nonsense. Have you not seen pictures of a slightly overweight guy with a beard cosplaying as princess leia in the gold bikini? If you want to do it, then do it. Have fun and take pictures.

Thanks Darth Knox. you give confidence and most importantly, joy, to this old, just now coming to the Star Wars world Jedi.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on August 18, 2016, 02:01:03 PM

Thank you. You're welcome ;)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on August 18, 2016, 03:04:14 PM

Quote from: Darth Knox on August 18, 2016, 01:26:03 PM

nonsense. Have you not seen pictures of a slightly overweight guy with a beard cosplaying as princess leia in the gold bikini? If you want to do it, then do it. Have fun and take pictures.

Dude, I am the biggest proponent of cosplaying whatever you want (unless your name is Jessica Nigri, in which case STOP COSPLAYING ALTOGETHER).

What I want, for myself, is to cosplay accurately. I don't care what anyone else does (again, unless it's Jessica Nigri), nor do I wish to force my own personal desire to cosplay accurately upon someone else.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on August 18, 2016, 03:12:14 PM

Fair enough. Was just trying to give you some encouragement. I don't strive for accuracy in cosplay, more capturing the spirit of the character. But that's the great thing about cosplaying; so many creative approaches available.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: wandering-seeker on September 22, 2016, 04:43:59 AM

Any advice for someone who is in college and having to pass on the essential ramen to pay for a saber? If I can't afford to buy an actual costume would a martial arts uniform or some other slightly martial clothes work?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on September 22, 2016, 05:04:53 AM

Quote from: wandering-seeker on September 22, 2016, 04:43:59 AM

Actually a gi is one of the best places to start, as the Jedi's standard attire was based on martial arts clothing. Put one on like usual, maybe with an undershirt, wrap a length of cloth around your waist and tie it in the front or off to the side to hold the top closed, maybe some wraps around your calf and/or forearms. Instant quasi-Jedi look.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jedihunter214 on December 11, 2016, 03:55:28 AM

Hey everyone I am needing help trying to find a good black boot for my outfit and I could use some help on any info given. Thanks

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on December 15, 2016, 06:15:48 PM

Quote from: Jedihunter214 on December 11, 2016, 03:55:28 AM

Hey everyone I am needing help trying to find a good black boot for my outfit and I could use some help on any info given. Thanks

What's the purpose of said boot? Everyday wear? Jedi cosplay? What?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on January 16, 2017, 11:59:23 AM

Quote from: Jedihunter214 on December 11, 2016, 03:55:28 AM

Hey everyone I am needing help trying to find a good black boot for my outfit and I could use some help on any info given. Thanks

Ia it for a Jedi or Sith costume?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jedihunter214 on January 16, 2017, 12:41:34 PM

Quote from: Darth Knox on January 16, 2017, 11:59:23 AM

Ia it for a Jedi or Sith costume?

both

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: shade_1313 on January 29, 2017, 12:42:34 AM

I ended up going with a pair of tanker boots.

I wonder if I can find some in brown, for light side use.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on February 16, 2017, 11:44:27 PM

Quote from: shade_1313 on January 29, 2017, 12:42:34 AM

I ended up going with a pair of tanker boots.

I wonder if I can find some in brown, for light side use.

Good choice.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: projectno253 on February 17, 2017, 01:50:39 AM

It'll depend on how large you need your boots, but I used women's knee high boots from K-Mart. Inexpensive and comfortable.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: ThreadJack on February 17, 2017, 02:10:30 AM

Payless is also a good place for women's boots....

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: B1ondeange1 on February 17, 2017, 06:22:07 AM

Quote from: ThreadJack on February 17, 2017, 02:10:30 AM

Payless is also a good place for women's boots....

Dunno what is elsewhere, but here there is also Spendless shoes. That's where my boots have come from. Sadly their boot sizes are a bit small and hubby couldn't fit into their largest, and his feet aren't particularly big either.

Sometimes you have to be careful with cheap shoe places though. Sometimes their shoes will be fine and last well- my current Jedi ones are. Other times you'll wear the shoes once or twice and that's it, worn out already.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on February 17, 2017, 12:43:35 PM

Could be worse. I can't even find shoes in my size in stores. I have to order them online.

It's not the length, as a size 13 is relatively common, if large.

No, it's the width. A size 13-4E is ridiculously hard to find.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on February 17, 2017, 01:01:42 PM

Quote from: Jev Moldara on February 17, 2017, 12:43:35 PM

Have you tried foot binding? That might help with the width issue.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jev Moldara on February 17, 2017, 01:25:26 PM

Quote from: Darth Knox on February 17, 2017, 01:01:42 PM

Have you tried foot binding? That might help with the width issue.

I tried it once. I had to give it up, though, after some well-meaning but ill-informed old Japanese lady tried giving me advice on makeup.

On the plus side, I made a dead sexy geisha.

(http://i.imgur.com/ZqWQjTR.jpg)

I'll let you figure out which one was me.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on February 17, 2017, 01:37:19 PM

Quote from: Jev Moldara on February 17, 2017, 01:25:26 PM

I tried it once. I had to give it up, though, after some well-meaning but ill-informed old Japanese lady tried giving me advice on makeup.

On the plus side, I made a dead sexy geisha.

([url]http://i.imgur.com/ZqWQjTR.jpg[/url])

I'll let you figure out which one was me.

Duh! The sexy pretty one, obviously

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: SAHPhoto on April 27, 2017, 05:52:47 PM

Quote from: wandering-seeker on September 22, 2016, 04:43:59 AM

Hi, hope you don't me hopping in a older thread :)

My very first attempt at a jedi costume was a white gi and sash that I hand dyed "ecru" from rit. I had a similar color thermal from my dad that I wore under it or if it was hot, I had a tank top for the layer. My belt was a tactical from the surplus store and my boots at the time were a target special. I have also gotten other boots at thrift stores. My outer robe was made of fleece, hand sewn because I didn't know how to use a machine and eyeballed for the "pattern"

I can sew with a machine now, but Im definitly someone who will buy/make/modify whatever I feel is needed. Sometimes based on price, sometimes skill (or lack thereof), sometimes a piece is already made exactly how you want.

Second hand stores can be a godsend for finding components and so is amazon <3 <3

I have a simplicity pattern that looks close that I will probably try eventually. Right now, I am having fun doing my own spin after being out of costuming for so long :)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: TheDutchman on April 27, 2017, 10:12:17 PM

Quote from: SAHPhoto on April 27, 2017, 05:52:47 PM

I have a simplicity pattern that looks close that I will probably try eventually. Right now, I am having fun doing my own spin after being out of costuming for so long :)

The fact that you can do your own designs and costumes is incredible; I wish that I had that ability :P I look forward to seeing pictures of your progress.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: SAHPhoto on April 27, 2017, 10:30:29 PM

Quote from: TheDutchman on April 27, 2017, 10:12:17 PM

The fact that you can do your own designs and costumes is incredible; I wish that I had that ability :P I look forward to seeing pictures of your progress.

I wouldn't necessarily call them designs. That makes it sound high end and that I make everything by hand lol I get an idea and then find or make things to go with that idea :D

I think Im more of a cobbler...I cobble them together ^_^

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: TheDutchman on April 27, 2017, 10:34:25 PM

Quote from: SAHPhoto on April 27, 2017, 10:30:29 PM

Heh, you've still got one up on me ;) I don't have a creative bone in my body (but I can ADAPT stuff like you wouldn't believe ;D).

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: SAHPhoto on April 28, 2017, 01:23:43 AM

Quote from: TheDutchman on April 27, 2017, 10:34:25 PM

Heh, you've still got one up on me ;) I don't have a creative bone in my body (but I can ADAPT stuff like you wouldn't believe ;D).

Adapting is its own talent!

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: TheDutchman on April 28, 2017, 07:22:35 PM

Quote from: SAHPhoto on April 28, 2017, 01:23:43 AM

Adapting is its own talent!

Heh, well thank you. Given the choice, I'd like to be able to be more creative and actually MAKE some of my own robes/sabers/armor ;) That said, I'll just have to dig down deep in the wallet :D Still, while I may not be able to make my own, I REALLY enjoy seeing the pics that everyone has posted w/ their own creations. Never ceases to amaze me what people can accomplish here 8)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: SAHPhoto on April 28, 2017, 08:29:00 PM

Quote from: TheDutchman on April 28, 2017, 07:22:35 PM

Honestly, sometimes I find things I could make, but when I consider not just the cost of similar material and my time, its worth it to buy....of course, I always look for a good sale as well. I think some of the fun is also finding pieces no one else uses or would think of using as a costume piece

I was afraid of touching a sewing machine for years, because I didn't realize that I was gifted a defective one. Once a master seamstress pointed it out, I bought a new machine and it was easy sailing. I can't do complicated patterns, but I can do basic stuff. If you have the time and inclination, check out a class at a Joann Fabrics. They always have a coupon too, so I paid 20$ for my class.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: TheDutchman on April 28, 2017, 10:33:08 PM

Quote from: SAHPhoto on April 28, 2017, 08:29:00 PM

Good point(s), especially w/ Joann Fabrics. Oddly enough, my mother-in-law just took a class over there last month. Heh, I might have to give that a try; if nothing else, I'll have a better understanding of the basics ;)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Hard_Reset on October 08, 2017, 03:38:44 PM

I'm not sure if this is the right place to ask, and I really did not know how to word my search, but is there a list of of which Ultra Saber it is a replica of?

For example: I know that fulcrum and lost grey are Ashoka Tano's sabers, but is there a master list that corresponds the ultrasaber with the jedi/sith that uses that saber?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Tepes on October 08, 2017, 06:09:41 PM

Quote from: Hard_Reset on October 08, 2017, 03:38:44 PM

Not really, are you looking for a particular characters hilt?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Hard_Reset on October 08, 2017, 10:18:25 PM

Quote from: Darth Tepes on October 08, 2017, 06:09:41 PM

Not really, are you looking for a particular characters hilt?

No, was just something I was curious about. For future purchases. I was thinking about doing a Revan cosplay in the future, I just figured having a list that equated the ultrasaber to saber would be useful to people trying to cosplay

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Logos on October 09, 2017, 07:14:30 PM

Quote from: Hard_Reset on October 08, 2017, 10:18:25 PM

Which Revan hilt?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Hard_Reset on October 09, 2017, 07:56:17 PM

Quote from: Darth Logos on October 09, 2017, 07:14:30 PM

Which Revan hilt?

His jedi or sith hilt honestly, he's one of my favorite and after I do a Rex cosplay, Revan will be my next star wars costume

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Logos on October 09, 2017, 08:09:50 PM

Quote from: Hard_Reset on October 09, 2017, 07:56:17 PM

His jedi or sith hilt honestly, he's one of my favorite and after I do a Rex cosplay, Revan will be my next star wars costume

If I know which is which: US doens't currently make a model of his Jedi redeemed saber, but a Shock LE with a MHS Guardian Pommel makes a decent Revan Sith hilt.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: mrg149 on June 28, 2018, 11:53:25 AM

I'd really like to get into cosplay but DAMN this is an expensive hobby ;-O What is an inexpensive way to get started?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Therion Jinn on June 28, 2018, 06:43:22 PM

Quote from: mrg149 on June 28, 2018, 11:53:25 AM

I'd really like to get into cosplay but DAMN this is an expensive hobby ;-O What is an inexpensive way to get started?

Find a way to do as much 'off the shelf' or 'from the closet' as possible, mrg149
I won't deny that it can get expensive.
Custom armor? Go for foam over the more expensive plastics
Robes? Check your local thrift stores

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: BoridrenDurist on June 29, 2018, 05:25:25 AM

A yard sale is another great place to get fabric or complete costume parts or even stuff you can use to make props. Who knows what people are trying to get rid of

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Logos on July 02, 2018, 03:42:00 PM

Quote from: mrg149 on June 28, 2018, 11:53:25 AM

I'd really like to get into cosplay but DAMN this is an expensive hobby ;-O What is an inexpensive way to get started?

Set yourself a price cap. What is the most you want to spend to start?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Who let the darths out on July 15, 2018, 10:10:33 PM

Has anyone here had any experience bringing an ultrasaber to a con recently? I'm going to wizard world in Tulsa as a custom with character I made that wields a spear (utilizing the dark war glaive). Am I going to encounter problems getting in? will having the blade on be an issue? Will the spear (made from yari pike extensions) be an issue? Any advice is greatly appreciated.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Therion Jinn on July 16, 2018, 02:23:21 AM

Quote from: Who let the darths out on July 15, 2018, 10:10:33 PM

I can't vouch for Tulsa, but I had no problems bringing Therion's Wrath into Salt Lake Comic Con last September
You should be able to check the con's website for relevant info as well

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jaymes1980 on September 30, 2018, 05:56:56 PM

Can someone point me into a direction, I want a crazy helmet Vader or open but want I it to also be able to absorb saber impact. My goal is to get armor for saber combat but want to look good aslso😀

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Infinit01 on September 30, 2018, 06:31:19 PM

Quote from: Jaymes1980 on September 30, 2018, 05:56:56 PM

Most cosplay helmets and masks are more for aesthetics so I'm not sure how impact absorbent one would be. My feeling is that they aren't but I did find one like this:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/631802209/star-wars-darth-vader-helmet-esb-fully?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=darth%20vader%20helmet&ref=sr_gallery-1-1&organic_search_click=1 (http://www.etsy.com/listing/631802209/star-wars-darth-vader-helmet-esb-fully?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=darth%20vader%20helmet&ref=sr_gallery-1-1&organic_search_click=1)

I did find a DV helmet that was designed as a motorcycle helmet so it won't be movie accurate since it looks like it was designed on top of an existing motorcycle helmet and is DOT and ECE approved.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/637925185/darth-vader-motorcycle-helmet-dotece?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=darth%20vader%20helmet&ref=sr_gallery-1-2&organic_search_click=1 (https://www.etsy.com/listing/637925185/darth-vader-motorcycle-helmet-dotece?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=darth%20vader%20helmet&ref=sr_gallery-1-2&organic_search_click=1)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jaymes1980 on September 30, 2018, 08:04:33 PM

Omg bro 😀 the motor cycle 1 is perfect, I go back to work from family leave for the birth of my son on the 11th. I have to hide 450 from my wife 🤣 or wait until Christmas but that's perfect your the man! I'd say point but I gave you 1 already 😂

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Infinit01 on October 01, 2018, 01:32:27 AM

Quote from: Jaymes1980 on September 30, 2018, 08:04:33 PM

Congrats on the incoming baby, Jaymes. Are you a motorcyclist as well? What’s your bike of choice? I have a ZX10R myself. You’re welcome, I’m just glad I was able to help if though I didn’t think I did. Point back!

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: mrg149 on October 01, 2018, 01:57:14 AM

what about some of the airsoft helmets that are geared towawrds costuming?!?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: For Tyeth on October 01, 2018, 03:14:46 AM

Quote from: mrg149 on October 01, 2018, 01:57:14 AM

what about some of the airsoft helmets that are geared towawrds costuming?!?

Hi there mrg149,

I would avoid airsoft masks if it is to be used for duelling. A fellow member of this forum did a video on YouTube where he took several of the most popular airsoft, fencing and full contact/lacross hockey helmets and tested them.

The airsoft mask was annihilated. The fencing mask was slightly better but still flexed on impact (meaning it would still hit you inside). The lacross/hockey helmets faired the best. However they would require a bit of cosmetic work to look "In-Universe"

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jaymes1980 on October 01, 2018, 05:15:40 AM

Quote from: For Tyeth on October 01, 2018, 03:14:46 AM

That's an awesome idea, it's a great start not sure what to use to get an authentic look but as a frame its perfect, what about infinat's idea the Vader motorcycle helmet hopefully made from kevlar

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Logos on October 01, 2018, 12:57:21 PM

Quote from: mrg149 on October 01, 2018, 01:57:14 AM

what about some of the airsoft helmets that are geared towawrds costuming?!?

You should check out Evike.

https://www.evike.com/shop/30/937/831/ (https://www.evike.com/shop/30/937/831/)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Jaymes1980 on October 02, 2018, 03:27:13 AM

Wow point for the awesome info bro!! Price is right and great material

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: janx on May 14, 2019, 07:35:47 PM

This is a good thread. Here's a few more thoughts from a long time Renny and Steampunk .

Plan incrementally. Costuming is expensive, so cut corners on stuff that matters less (pants) and focus on the eye catchers first. Nobody notices pants (aside from lack thereof), compared to your shirt or prop. I wore sweatpants on my first ren fair costume. Nobody commented on that. That hack enabled me to wear what I did have (tunic from the theatre department after a run of I Hate Hamlet).

I have since gotten several pairs of breeches that work for a pirate or a peasant. I've got several styles of shirts/tunics. I can outfit friends now. But everything is modular, like your real wardrobe. On this, I tend to favor making my own character rather than copying one. It's a lot easier becoming my own Jedi than it is reproducing Luke.

Learn how to make, mod or sew or find someone who can who you can feed cookies to. I've bought a number of pieces for my cosplays, but I also know how to make stuff and I've a friend who is a fashion designer who helps out with some things.

Don't be afraid to reverse engineer that cheap costume. Odds are good what's wrong with it is material and sloppy assembly. You can still figure out the pattern from it and remake it.

Build up layers. Learned that from the Lord of the Rings extended DVD extras. Han isn't wearing pants and a shirt. There's a vest. A gun belt. Look carefully at any dressed up movie, and you'll see at least 2 layers on every outfit, usually 3.

Don't go all black. Yeah, I love black, too. But it's hot in the sun and is harder to photograph because there's no contrast between layers/ belts, etc.

The basic formula for a Jedi is:
1 karate gi (dye it. All white looks weird and armpit stains suck. preferably separate colors for top/bottom)
1 belt to cinch it and hang blaster/saber from
1 cloak or haori to wear over all that
1 pair of boots (or very black tennis shoes with no obvious logo)

You can google how to make a cloak. I made mine in my dorm room with one of those tiny sewing kits. Used hard-drive rings (separates the platters) for the clasp. Cheap. Accessorize. Swap out stuff as you get better.

You'll be recognizable as a Jedi in general and look great. The light saber usually gives the whole thing away, remember those sweatpants? Nobody does. Key prop/garb pieces draw the eye away from mundane elements. Waist-up photos also help. Because your bottom half looks plain (at this stage), the photographer is going to zoom in on the top halves.

That's the next step. Building fancier stuff. Google. Stretch and learn a new skill. Fail. Make a better one.

Study up Nerfpunk to learn how to paint plastics to look like metal. You can make your Hasbro Blaster look better.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Golden Fedora on May 14, 2019, 07:48:15 PM

Quote from: janx on May 14, 2019, 07:35:47 PM

Good info janx, I'm sure all newcomers will appreciate this

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: ScificommodoreJones on June 26, 2019, 08:18:33 AM

Cosplay…. I was cosplaying long before I knew what cosplay was I think the first time was in 1967 at the ripe age of 6 dressing up as batman to watch first runs of Adam West version of batman for that half an hour I was Batman, I made a cardboard phaser from star trek with two pop lids and a tooth pick.
Jump to the late eights Larping, Live, action, role-play, at cons and the like till like 2000 or so.
I feel before you go build a costume create your character give him a back story, example I’m , Elb`ro Jonpa I own a VCX-100 Light Freighter, called Jurassic Amber I’m neither Jedi or sith but I’m strong with the force, as Obi-wan would say…. Any skills I learn are self-taught or mimicked as a youngling watch my grandfather and father practice. Story goes in the outer rim on a forgotten planet, in a ruined temple I found a damaged sith light saber that I took as my own, (which has its own back story) so with all that in mind, than I began building my costume which started with a simply grey boiler suit after all I’m a freighter pilot and the ship’s captain. Is my costume accurate I would say yes, but I’ve no examples to go by because? , Elb`ro Jonpa is me, I’m not cosplaying Han Solo, Luke sky walker, obi-wan or any established Characters. And it does irk some, with their complaints and their opinion’s, I just move on from those nay sayers because in the end both myself and the nay sayer will have a better time with no or as little interaction as possible……. Look take clues from established Characters but be creative and imaginative.
Jump to 2019 my Granddaughter who eight.. Created her cosplay identity as the daughter of a well to do jeweler who were murdered she thinks by rebels so she’s hot under the collar. Living on the streets as a scavenger and thief n her own right… till I as Elb`ro Jonpa adopt her and she’s my new copilot as I teach her on the trips of commerce that pays the bill she known as raven Jonpa the light saber she’s building she’s given a name to it, Talon every bit of her saber been scavenged. She “stole one of my mystery boxes every mod she makes I from bits she finds that’s a second example what her costume will be who knows but it’ll be her that’s for sure.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on June 26, 2019, 08:42:03 AM

I think quite a few people on the forum have created backstories for their cosplay and posted them in the fan fiction section. That's what I did. ;D

Also, I just noticed one of the pictures from the original post has disappeared (thanks Photobucket)

Under "Who can cosplay?" it's supposed to be this. If any Mods want to use their magic and move this photo, that would be awesome.

(https://i.imgur.com/L6mBK90.png)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Logos on June 26, 2019, 09:15:53 AM

Quote from: Darth Knox on June 26, 2019, 08:42:03 AM

I think quite a few people on the forum have created backstories for their cosplay and posted them in the fan fiction section. That's what I did. ;D

I would say that is the ultimate distinction of cosplay versus wearing a costume: cosplay takes on a role and persona.

When I went to SW Celebration, I ran into this guy:

(https://i.imgur.com/QsXd9ti.jpg)

He did an astounding job, but he had only seen images of it online, and knew nothing of the backstory or where it came from. So I asked his buddy to translate as I told him the tragically lost story of how Starkiller whooped the tar out of D. Viddy.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Jaximus on August 22, 2019, 05:56:46 PM

(http://[URL=http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/6CAE0DB6-8F70-4984-82AA-1956D644F444_zpsiueluah7.jpg.html][IMG]http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/6CAE0DB6-8F70-4984-82AA-1956D644F444_zpsiueluah7.jpg)[/URL][/img]

(http://[URL=http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/9259BCD2-C12F-48BA-B75E-856396B5CC41_zpsrqbrgwlo.jpg.html][IMG]http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/9259BCD2-C12F-48BA-B75E-856396B5CC41_zpsrqbrgwlo.jpg)[/URL][/

(http://[URL=http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/FFBB2FCA-BE01-4927-9C1B-083923DCE8CE_zps1wrbvc3n.jpg.html][IMG]http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/FFBB2FCA-BE01-4927-9C1B-083923DCE8CE_zps1wrbvc3n.jpg)[/URL][/img]

(http://[URL=http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/3AB13419-62B5-409B-B867-7A71C7238834_zpsrievhany.jpg.html][IMG]http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/3AB13419-62B5-409B-B867-7A71C7238834_zpsrievhany.jpg)[/URL][/img]

(http://[URL=http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/A4277456-53B0-4581-BF50-D46F7F5B4986_zpsviprmglk.jpg.html][IMG]http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/A4277456-53B0-4581-BF50-D46F7F5B4986_zpsviprmglk.jpg)[/URL][/img]

I started making my own costumes two weeks ago. I’ve made a Jedi Knight, grey Jedi, Dooku cape, and palpatine robes all with zero experience. Watching a few how to videos and practicing with a sewing machine and it’s amazing how easy it can be.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Jaximus on August 22, 2019, 05:57:45 PM

(http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/A4277456-53B0-4581-BF50-D46F7F5B4986_zpsviprmglk.jpg) (http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/A4277456-53B0-4581-BF50-D46F7F5B4986_zpsviprmglk.jpg.html)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Jaximus on August 22, 2019, 06:01:02 PM

(http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/6CAE0DB6-8F70-4984-82AA-1956D644F444_zpsiueluah7.jpg) (http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/6CAE0DB6-8F70-4984-82AA-1956D644F444_zpsiueluah7.jpg.html)

(http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/9FD939F1-F02F-42BB-9041-22AF92569ED7_zpsshxtbwtv.jpg) (http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/9FD939F1-F02F-42BB-9041-22AF92569ED7_zpsshxtbwtv.jpg.html)

(http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/3AB13419-62B5-409B-B867-7A71C7238834_zpsrievhany.jpg) (http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/3AB13419-62B5-409B-B867-7A71C7238834_zpsrievhany.jpg.html)

(http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/49208222-139A-448C-808F-891AF23BC67E_zps8cpcc7tk.jpg) (http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/49208222-139A-448C-808F-891AF23BC67E_zps8cpcc7tk.jpg.html)

(http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/FFBB2FCA-BE01-4927-9C1B-083923DCE8CE_zps1wrbvc3n.jpg) (http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/FFBB2FCA-BE01-4927-9C1B-083923DCE8CE_zps1wrbvc3n.jpg.html)

(http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh581/jacksonaa88/9259BCD2-C12F-48BA-B75E-856396B5CC41_zpsrqbrgwlo.jpg) (http://s1253.photobucket.com/user/jacksonaa88/media/9259BCD2-C12F-48BA-B75E-856396B5CC41_zpsrqbrgwlo.jpg.html)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Makubex on November 05, 2019, 09:43:17 AM

Quote from: Darth Knox on January 15, 2016, 07:54:42 PM

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What is Cosplaying: A Brief Introduction
The actual word "cosplay" was invented by a Japanese reporter in 1984 as a portmanteau of the English terms "costume" and "role-play". Nov Takahashi was sent to report on the goings-on of the '84 WorldCon, being held that year in Los Angeles, CA. He coined the word to help describe what he saw going on at WorldCon - people wearing costumes in the halls, and a stage masquerade featuring the biggest and brightest of the costumes of the weekend.

Even though cosplay as a pastime was around long before that weekend in 1984, the term has been used ever since and thanks to the explosion in geek culture and lots more media coverage, the pastime has increased massively in popularity.

(For more information on the history of cosplay
[url]http://www.strangelandcostumes.com/history.html[/url])

Who can Cosplay?

([url]http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w428/T-challa/image_zpsiph2gijc.jpeg[/url]) ([url]http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/T-challa/media/image_zpsiph2gijc.jpeg.html[/url])

([url]http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w428/T-challa/1F1662D781042BF47C49EE359E1F4FF5A3025F1A_zpshnuqwu6v.jpeg[/url]) ([url]http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/T-challa/media/1F1662D781042BF47C49EE359E1F4FF5A3025F1A_zpshnuqwu6v.jpeg.html[/url])

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STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO MAKING A COSTUME
1 - Choose a costume
Believe it or not, this is a difficult stage in cosplay because a lot of people don't know what to cosplay or have difficulty deciding on some; there are so many great characters to choose from.

In Star Wars, you have choice between creating an original character or choosing one from canon. It's best to choose a character that you admire or are REALLY familiar with. Some people choose a character they physically resemble to dress like. Then you must ask: "which costume?". Some characters appear in several different costumes or costume variants. And finally, what kind of level of detail do you want to go to?

If you're a beginner with no experience of costuming, the easier the costume the better! Never underestimate costumes that look easy; they could turn out to be a nightmare.

Helpful hint - I found creating and writing down a full character backstory incredibly helpful when designing an original character.

2 - Research, Research, Research
Research is key. Go online and save pictures from as many angles as you can find. Also try and find drawings, sketches or screenshots, anything that you think can be of use. Numerous pictures makes it easier to create a costume that is as accurate as possible.

It also helps to find pictures of other people who do cosplay; it might inspire you with new ideas. Also, reference pictures are very useful when you need to purchase matching items (you can show the pictures to people and say "I need that wig" or "I need help finding that cloth" when you're shopping for materials).

Asking people questions on the forum is also a good way of finding out how they made/where they bought certain items.

Helpful hint - Probably the best website to find information on both canon and old expanded universe characters is [url=http://www.starwars.wikia.com]www.starwars.wikia.com[/url] ([url]http://www.starwars.wikia.com[/url])

3 - Budget
When it comes to cosplay I think there are three levels:

i) Beginner – the individual just wants to dress as the character.
ii) Intermediate – the individual wants to dress as a character, but make the overall aesthetic unique to them. Elements of the costume are bought and adapted or made from scratch.
iii) Advanced – Most of the costume is made.

As mentioned before, while cosplaying is a hobby, it can become expensive. But that depends on the kind of character you want to do and how much detail you want to include.

Some costumes have been made very cheaply using household items like painted cardboard. Some costumes have been professionally made by costume designers. This is where budget comes into play as well as your skill level/confidence sewing & glueing things.

3.1 - Bought vs Made Costumes
Not everyone enjoys sewing or spending years making a suit or armour. Some people are not comfortable or have no experience sewing. Therefore, one option for them to cosplay is to buy a costume or have a costume made for them rather than make it themselves. However, some people decide to challenge/push themselves and make the costume themselves.

Benefits of bought costumes:
There are two kinds of costumes you can buy; generic costumes and custom made.

Generic costumes are similar to a Halloween costume. You can find them on eBay and other sites. They will generally be mass produced and most likely won't be top quality. However, if you think it is better than what you can do, it is a quick and easy option.

Custom made costumes are made for you by costume designers. They can make a reality any costume design you can think of. The costume will be made really well with quality material and take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months to make.

Benefits of making costumes (taken from a post written by B1ondeange1)
a) Cost
b) Fit- I have always had troubles getting clothes to fit my body shape properly, being female and all, and most off the shelf costumes are not designed for women who are that little bit bigger.
c) Satisfaction and enjoyment - I love making my own costumes and challenging what I am capable of.

PLEASE REMEMBER - There is no "right" or "wrong way!

3.2 - Monitor your spending!
Whether you decide to make your costume or have it made for you, just remember, whether you spend a lot or a little money on it doesn't mean it will or will not be good!

If you are making costume, set out a chart of all the materials you'll need according to your references (cloth, paint, thread, footwear, wig, straps, leather etc) You may find out that the costume is currently out-of-reach with how much money you have, so plan wisely!

4 - Timing
Timing is everything. It is never too early to start making your costume. Measure the time between today and the day of the convention. General rule of thumb is to allow about 3-4 months to make a costume depending on how much time a day you spend on it. Although, it never hurts to finish it early (working last minute is NOT a fun thing to do).

One option is to get a calendar and write down what you plan to do on certain weeks and months (i.e. Spend this week sewing the pants, spend the next week sewing the shirt, spend the next month making the mask etc).

5 - Materials
Make a shopping list of everything you need for your costume. If you cannot get everything in one go, use your calendar (as mentioned in step 4) to determine what materials you can get right now.

There a number of craft stores and markets where you can pick up the materials you need. You can also get creative by visiting charity/thrift shops and purchasing cheap items that can be upcycled and used as part of your costume. That's a great way of getting material (sometimes very unique and original material) very cheaply.

Handy Tip: - Beware of what you buy. Some materials might be toxic, break easily or could become sun worn very easily. Also, each convention has rules about costumes and props. Make sure you are aware of what they are.

6 - Construction
Now is the time to buckle down and make the costume. There will be times when you get frustrated or stuck. Don't get disheartened. Stick to your plan and think about the end game - attending a convention in your very own costume.

7 - Completion
Once the costume is finished, take lots of pictures and post them proudly on the site.

8 - Go to the convention and have fun!

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Trolls

"You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there's still going to be somebody who hates peaches." ― Dita Von Teese.

*********

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List of handy sites/saberforum threads
Costume buying guide - A place where you can find costume designers/websites for your costume
[url]http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=11068.0[/url] ([url]http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=11068.0[/url])

Guide to specific Star Wars costumes - A place where you can find information on making specific Star Wars costumes
[url]http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=13555.0[/url] ([url]http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=13555.0[/url])

Belt pouch tutorial - Cosplaying as a Jedi or Sith? You'll need a pouch. Why not make your own.
[url]http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=14403.0[/url] ([url]http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=14403.0[/url])

Star Wars costume groups - Offical Lucasfilm approved costuming group that raise money for charity
501st/Rebel Legion - [url]http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=15850.0[/url] ([url]http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=15850.0[/url])

Sith costuming group - A costuming group that welcomes original Sith costumes
The Dark Empire - [url]http://www.thedarkempire.org/[/url] ([url]http://www.thedarkempire.org/[/url])

Movie Costumes - An interview with the costumer design from Star Wars: The Force Awaken
[url]http://tyrannyofstyle.com/star-wars-force-awakens-costume-design[/url] ([url]http://tyrannyofstyle.com/star-wars-force-awakens-costume-design[/url])

Holy moly guacamole Darth lord!!! Honestly points to u! This was not only informative but, you also I think kinda calmed my anxiety of the whole cosplaying not only as a hobby but more of a passion... I’ve actually always wanted to cosplay... but I actually wanted to get hands on somewhere in my own outfit to get started... but 0 sewing experience well maybe a 1/10 I did learn to sew buttons in elem school >.> lol other then that nothing... your guide gave me an idea and at least a place to begin my adventure. Thanks a bunch for this!

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on November 05, 2019, 06:01:09 PM

Quote from: Makubex on November 05, 2019, 09:43:17 AM

Hi Makubex. You are very welcome. That's kind of why I wrote it, to help anyone who is new to cosplay but is a bit apprehensive about the whole thing.

I'm glad you found it helpful and I look forward to seeing pictures of your future cosplay.

BTW - this is one of the pictures that was deleted:

(https://i.imgur.com/L6mBK90.png)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Makubex on November 05, 2019, 06:34:58 PM

Quote from: Darth Knox on November 05, 2019, 06:01:09 PM

It might be awhile... I plan on ordering some parts and hand crafting others... but it seems it will be a long project... I been eyeing a certain sexy assassin that hits home for me ( I’m 98% always an assassin in mmorpgs) but after reading your post I figured I can buy certain custom pieces and learn from how it was made details and such and kinda slowly learn to do it my self down the line in the process.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on November 05, 2019, 06:50:15 PM

Quote from: Makubex on November 05, 2019, 06:34:58 PM

Well, there's no rush. I spent 4 months working on my Halloween costume (after doing a fair few months of research in various distressing techniques). Your way definitely seems like you will come up with something amazing, once it's finished.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Makubex on November 05, 2019, 07:34:57 PM

Quote from: Darth Knox on November 05, 2019, 06:50:15 PM

I’m one with the force.. the force is with me...I hope...lol! Only thing I won’t be able to do are the armour pieces unless I learn to foam base...and cast-setting... I’ve hand made swords and stuff as a teen sooo should be kinda similar maybe just not as much pressure... I dunno... I’ll figure it out..

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on November 05, 2019, 08:52:03 PM

Quote from: Makubex on November 05, 2019, 07:34:57 PM

Google is your friend. There are a lot of tutorials out there about use foam to create cosplay things. Trial and error and get creative. Go forth and conquer the galaxy!

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Logos on November 05, 2019, 09:21:12 PM

Quote from: Makubex on November 05, 2019, 09:43:17 AM

Those that can't make....shop. Or know someone with skills.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on November 05, 2019, 10:08:39 PM

Quote from: Darth Logos on November 05, 2019, 09:21:12 PM

Those that can't make....shop. Or know someone with skills.

True. But there is an innate satisfaction from wearing something you made tailored-fit to just you.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Makubex on November 06, 2019, 02:05:30 AM

Quote from: Darth Logos on November 05, 2019, 09:21:12 PM

Those that can't make....shop. Or know someone with skills.

Bahaha yeah that’s me right now.... lvl.1 craftsmith... gotta purchase me some NPC items and decompose eM maybe and hopefully gain some blue prints or materials I can use to craft and gain my lvls... hahahahaha

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on November 06, 2019, 07:43:28 AM

Quote from: Makubex on November 06, 2019, 02:05:30 AM

Nobody was born doing anything. Everything we can do is a learned skill. As long as you gave vision of what toh want yo make then I have no doubt you'll be able to achieve your goal, even if it's a combination of homemade and shop bought parts.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Makubex on November 10, 2019, 12:46:58 AM

Quote from: Darth Knox on November 06, 2019, 07:43:28 AM

Okay... sooo I’ve delved deep into cosplay making and materials
Soooo I don’t got a 3D Printer... and I scoped out using resin moulding casts and well tools are
Kinda expensive would be good if I did it for hobby business... and then I discovered foam.... easy cheap
Practical and pretty durable... especially since I can metal plate em!
For people starting out on handcrafting their cosplay armour I’d recommend foam first... it’s very forgiving
And very cheap.... like... insanely cheap... not to mention it becomes a personal attire u can literally mould your armour to fit only you.. and the time frame is days-weeks faster... not to mention.. you can save 500$ on ordering and 800$ on your overall outfit >.> just a thought and some things I found out researching...

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Knox on November 10, 2019, 01:59:30 AM

Quote from: Makubex on November 10, 2019, 12:46:58 AM

Creative out of the box thinking coupled with using existing know-how and stuff from around the house. Always nice to see when the creative bug takes hold of someone. Have fun!

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Darth Logos on November 11, 2019, 02:48:38 PM

Quote from: Darth Knox on November 05, 2019, 10:08:39 PM

True. But there is an innate satisfaction from wearing something you made tailored-fit to just you.

No arguments. But I was more implying paying someone who can fabricate YOUR idea. Not as fully satisfying as making it yourself, but still satisfying that you had a hand in it's creation.

Quote from: Makubex on November 10, 2019, 12:46:58 AM

I have seen some absolutely outstanding costume effects pulled off with foam.

(https://i.imgur.com/9QD9NnW.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/AYbPYjp.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/QTLwFZw.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/NmVknye.jpg)

Quote from: Darth Knox on November 10, 2019, 01:59:30 AM

Creative out of the box thinking coupled with using existing know-how and stuff from around the house. Always nice to see when the creative bug takes hold of someone. Have fun!

Amen. I get more excited seeing creative methods over seeing screen accuracy.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Therion Jinn on November 12, 2019, 03:12:24 AM

I agree. Show me what you can do, not what you can copy
Creativity is king for me on cosplay

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Makubex on November 28, 2019, 11:06:55 PM

Quote from: Darth Logos on November 11, 2019, 02:48:38 PM

No arguments. But I was more implying paying someone who can fabricate YOUR idea. Not as fully satisfying as making it yourself, but still satisfying that you had a hand in it's creation.
I have seen some absolutely outstanding costume effects pulled off with foam.

(https://i.imgur.com/9QD9NnW.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/AYbPYjp.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/QTLwFZw.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/NmVknye.jpg)
Amen. I get more excited seeing creative methods over seeing screen accuracy.

Beautiful!! Yeahhh I’ve started mapping out diameters for my armour and such... been but nothing to crazy yet... Christmas season and all.. were hitting the negatives these days... turning my porch into my work place.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: Robyn_Goodfellow on January 14, 2020, 11:06:32 PM

This is my Rebel Pilot cosplay. I’m happy with the outcome... hoping to cosplay a temple knight next .

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4xkm7EFpnA/?igshid=uouo1yj1wxjq (https://www.instagram.com/p/B4xkm7EFpnA/?igshid=uouo1yj1wxjq)

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4xk8diFycw/?igshid=cxm1ekrq0ffi (https://www.instagram.com/p/B4xk8diFycw/?igshid=cxm1ekrq0ffi)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: janx on April 16, 2021, 06:06:52 PM

Footwear!

Whether for Jedi/Sith or anybody else, finding something for the feet is hard.

Here's a couple sources (Thanks to For Tyeth for the tip on these 3 vendors):

Gladiator-Polo : a boot company that got offering Star Wars boots when a customer asked for some modiciations
https://www.gladiator-polo.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=67_196 (https://www.gladiator-polo.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=67_196)
These are $300-$400 custom made boots made for daily rugged use. the pricing is typical for "good" leather boots

Cossky (aka CosplaySky)
https://cossky.com/collections/star-wars-1 (https://cossky.com/collections/star-wars-1)

Ez-Cosplay
https://www.ezcosplay.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Star+Wars+boots (https://www.ezcosplay.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Star+Wars+boots)

Also consider motorcycle boots. I found RideTec boots for $105 that might suit. They tend to be all black, though.

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: mrg149 on April 27, 2021, 05:41:17 PM

I need some assistance!

I made these two very nice shoulder plates with deltoid and bicep armor pauldrons for an original Sith costume I'm working on. I took the Witcher pattern from Much Props (find it on YouTube) and modified it to make it a little Sith-y-er. Unfortunately, when getting to the strapping part it got a little light on directions and I'm not getting the results I wanted.

(https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=1GA4-Qk_QPolmdw-z-viphiLEbzlmJyrl)

I'm having a bit of a rough time coming up with how to strap them on myself. I did manage to put a loop of elastic on the bicep areas that keeps them in place on the lower end. I attempted to attach these to the shoulder plates with a couple of elastic bands from the plates to the upper deltoid pads but it was not very mobile. I haven't figured out how to keep the shoulders on either. This is where I need the help! I would like to continue to use the 1" elastic banding (and some velcro if necessary) to achieve this.

PLEASE YE GODS OF COSPLAY...I beg your help

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: janx on April 27, 2021, 07:22:26 PM

Quote from: mrg149 on April 27, 2021, 05:41:17 PM

I need some assistance!

I made these two very nice shoulder plates with deltoid and bicep armor pauldrons for an original Sith costume I'm working on. I took the Witcher pattern from Much Props (find it on YouTube) and modified it to make it a little Sith-y-er. Unfortunately, when getting to the strapping part it got a little light on directions and I'm not getting the results I wanted.

I'm having a bit of a rough time coming up with how to strap them on myself. I did manage to put a loop of elastic on the bicep areas that keeps them in place on the lower end. I attempted to attach these to the shoulder plates with a couple of elastic bands from the plates to the upper deltoid pads but it was not very mobile. I haven't figured out how to keep the shoulders on either. This is where I need the help! I would like to continue to use the 1" elastic banding (and some velcro if necessary) to achieve this.

PLEASE YE GODS OF COSPLAY...I beg your help

Alright bud, let's think. Given that I was gonna hijack the base design for my costume and also not do the cross-chest straps, your problem could be my problem :)

let's ignore the bicep pads for now. The key is the shoulder pads themselves need to stay on your shoulders.

For my costume, I wanted these to sit on my shoulders over the tabbards and NOT have velcro between them so I could revert to the original Jedi costume sans armor bits.

I had two ideas in mind to accomplish that:

1) My tabbards are held to the tunic by velcro along the shoulder ridge. Add a double-sided velcro strip (male/female sides) to the underside of the shoulder pad that is only fixed at the ends (or at least the end by the neck). To wear it, you flip it upside down, slide the tabbard into position so it's velcro strip attaches to your strap and the strap acts as the new mate to the velcro on the tunic.

This is like a sandwich which I shall now draw badly in ASCII art:

PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP+ NECK
TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT__| NECK
TVTVTVTVTVTVTV__| NECK
PVPVPVPVPVPVPV-+ NECK
SVSVSVSVSVSVS
SSSSSSSSSSSSS

P = shoulder pad
T = tabbard
TV = tabbard under-velcro
PV = "loose" velcro strap only anchored to the shoulder pad by neck (underside so it's hidden)
SV = tunic shoulder velcro strip fixed to the shoulder of the tunic
S = shoulder of the tunic

that -+| stuff is me trying to show that strap is attached to the pad

2) I had this idea for my cape originally, but imagine a neck piece for the back of the neck that goes across your shoulder blades with "wings" that go across the top of your shoulder for these pads to attach to. Basically a third piece that connects the pair and holds them in place. I can't draw that easily...

3) duh. velcro. Assuming your costume is NOT modular in that you want different presentation modes, put some velcro on the underside of the shoulder pads along the shoulder ridge axis and afix the corresponding velcro to the outfit you've got that the pads would be worn with. If it's fabric, consider stitching the velcro to it, not just relying on the "glue"

As with all uses of velcro in costuming, do not just rip costume bits off to remove. The glue/fabric can't take that force. Be gentle. Says that on my Jedi Closet garb because she uses Velcro for all these things. It'll hold for wear, but it can't take a yank to strip out of it.

Those are rough ideas. What is actually under these pads? What's the back of your costume look like as well? Are you planning for modular modes of dress like I am to shift from Jedi version to Sith?

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: mrg149 on April 28, 2021, 01:50:38 AM

The costume is just sith and not intended for much modular design.

There is a neck seal that will go over the inner tunic/shirt but under the outer hooded short sleeve tunic (not yet in existence). then we will have the long tabards (same as SirIftALot's but black…natch!) then shoulders and arms. A cape would be attached after this…somehow.

was considering some kind of elastic strap in the armpit area for the shoulder plates and let the arms unattached but adding another strap to the lower part of the deltoid plates…

…or I could just velcro those M-F-ers! ;-)

Title: Re: COSPLAY 101: A Beginners Guide
Post by: DarthProdigal on April 28, 2021, 03:15:04 AM

...best topic thread I've seen in a while, hat's off to Darth Knox for getting the ball rolling on this one. Well played everyone. Though I hope some of those images can get salvaged/revived one day?

Saber Forum

General Chat => Costumes and Props => Topic started by: Darth Knox on January 15, 2016, 07:54:42 PM