Costume Cosplay

It's alright buying cosplay costumes, but if you want to be a Mandorivian God at the convention then you need to know how to make custom costumes, or have a ton of money to buy custom tailored cosplay, which is not possible for most.  That's where this article comes in.  Making a costume is easier then you think.  It's just a matter of having the right material and tools, and having a little bit of an artistic eye.  Oh yeah, and patience!

The material you will need is paper(preferably in large rolls, go to the fabric store, they got tons of it for cheap), permanent markers, pencils, and fabric.

The tools you will need include a sewing machine, thread, needles, fabric glue, foam, pencils, markers and paper and other stuff for accessories such as bracelets or weapons.  Those are for another article.  We are focusing just on the clothing part here.  You will also need a measuring tape.

You will need to first have an idea of what you want.  The best steps are to pick a character, than find a picture online of the costume you want, or sketch your own.  It's best if you can find a frontal view, back view, and side view.  Try to identify all layers and attention to detail.  It's best to make a list at this point of the kinds of fabric you will need and all the colors.  To estimate the amount you need measure your body at the neck, chest, hips, biceps and legs and then add at least 3 yards per 2 feet for errors(It will save you time and trips to the store).

To create the pattern sketch out these measurements.  The best way to figure this out is determine every seam in the fabric piece.  Are they on the sides like pants, or down the middle like a wizard's hat?  Add a quarter inch on each side for the seams.  The seams are where you will sew.

Once your pattern is made, make photo copies in case you make mistakes, and then cut out the fabric.  Comparing it to your body, wrapping it around, etc. will give you an idea if you are doing it correctly or not.

Next sew everything together, whether by hand or machine.

Finally, wear it to the convention and gloat in your sexiness, as the peons become jealous.