I think there should be a How To Sew/ Cosplay panel. A lot of people want to cosplay, but either don't know how to sew or how to convert patterns to match their character. That would be a huge help.
Anyone interested in teaching this? I would, but I'm a little overextended as it is.
i would attend that panel. i hope someone decides to host one like this.
sounds like a fun idea. But a panel on how to sew wouldn't be very fun if you didn't have sewing machines. Getting enough people to volunteer their sewing machines to fill up one room may be VERY difficult. But I have a feeling a panel like that would be very popular because there's a lot of cosplayers or people interested in cosplay who do not have sewing machines and they don't want to drop over $100 into a machine that they have never used before. But if they get a chance to test drive one for free who would pass up on that offer?
I think this idea has been brought up before but it usually falls thru the cracks since no one had the initiative to make it happen. btw I wouldn't mind volunteering my sewing machine(people volunteer their game consoles so why not sewing machines^_^) but there's no way I could host the panel b/c my hands will be full staffing the info desk.
However if it's just a panel about how to cosplay then chances are, not that many people will attend unless it's being hosted by a very popular cosplay group. At least that's my observation but I could be wrong.
If this panel goes through and you need more sewing machines, I have one I can lend out for the panel. The only thing is, mine is VERY VERY basic. No fancy stitches. straight stitching but you can change the width and tightness, go backwards...Easy stuff. However, that's probably best for people just learning right?^^;; And it's all you really need.
However, I am too much of a beginner to host any sort of panel like this. It sounds like this panel has lots of potential of someone will host it, and if they could do a good job. Like astroboy said, there are a lot of people wanting to cosplay but don't know how to sew(it IS tricky)
But I have an extremely basic (and temperamental) machine I could lend. And if anyone agrees to host, I'd be happy to help.
I have a sewing machine I could lend also, but its YOUR job to hook it up, as anything more complicated than opening the box is out of my league :roll:
i wish there was a class at the con. that showed how to make your own costums because i cant sow wearth sh1t
Egad. I don't think a single panel would do any justice to the skill. Anybody here actually make their own clothes that don't look like they come from a game or manga series? Pfft, well, it'd be nice for the prospective cosplayers. And while I'm on that note: cosplayers sometimes choose the worst, excessively expensive fabrics for their costumes sometimes.
Anyway, there's my two cents. I wish I could spill out a little more of myself on the floor (in the forum) here, but you'd be all over me about crap. Bye-yuh!
Actually, about a fourth of my clothes are clothes I either edited from clothes(such as making a shirt from a skirt, or vice versa, or skirt from pants), or that I made from stratch.
Quote from: "Cream Kit"Egad. I don't think a single panel would do any justice to the skill. Anybody here actually make their own clothes that don't look like they come from a game or manga series?
I do. I've been making a lot of my own clothes, lately. I've also been converting old or ill fitting clothes to give them another use( i.e. short jeans into pedal-pushers or shorts). It's a pretty useful skill and I started to learn by making my own costume.
how about just a class on the basics of sewing? like how to thread and use a sewing machine? reading patterns?
i could some help with the basics of a sewing machine. right now, i hand stitch all my costumes and not a very nice stitch. it holds, that is all i ask of it.
i think its a great idea. but not only should sewing be done, but other things should be covered too. for instance...how to make armor, on a low budget that is. or, how to make weapons. etc. if thats happenin, im in. :D
right!
and how to make things so they dont look so cheese!
yes i wish i could do things like that!
Armor and weapons is way to much to cover in one panel. That would be more of a How To for more experienced cosplayers. I'm talking about the bare bones basics like using a machine and reading patterns. Also how to convert patterns to what you need. Cheap fabric vs. showy fabric and all that. This would be something for the beginners, either people who have never cosplayed before or do all their sewing by hand.
Covering the threading of a machine would be difficult only from a standpoint that all machines are different and may not thread the same way or wind bobbins the same way and it depends on whether the machine is a vertical or slanted needle, ...etc. These are the kinds of things that would be covered.
Isn't there anyone who could host this panel????
It sounds like we need a lot of 'how to sew' panels. The question is what level do we want it to be at? A beginning level I would skip (after all there's SO much to do) but I WOULD like to learn more about making armor and which fabrics are best for which look. Is there anyone that anybody knows who makes costumes on a professional or semi-professional basis? Maybe we could talk them into being a guest? If not we could snag someone from Der Cosplay---One of the winners that made their costumes? :wink:
well i ant sew worth crap, i can barlly do anything so this would help me if it was a more beginers...but whatever u guys want if it is advansed im out..hee
a how to cosplay panel would be good for those who need help, but for a how to sew panel, you'd probably be better off taking a sewing class at your school or local community college. Or go to your local joanns they do teach sewing there and you bring ur own machine there so you learn using your own machine. For basic learning on how to sew straight with your machine practice with ur machine not threaded and use binder paper try and follow the lines on the paper. As for threading your machine every machine is different so yes you'd have to follow your machine's manual on how to thread it. ^_^; Things that could be covered in a cosplay panel are: patterns and how to alter them to fit your needs, fabric choosing, finishing your costumes like serging or whatnot. I'd also think urls or lists of places to purchase cosplay goods. actually the cosplay panels are more popular than you think. I don't even think the host of the panel matters as much. Provided the panel isn't at a time when there's something larger going on there should get a good turnout.
but I do have to say there should be separate pannels like one on costume construction, another on props and another on armor. There isn't enough time to fit everything into an hours worth of time that panels usually last. ^_^; Last year there were some good panels on stuff like vaccum forming with plastics and the like.
Miaka
I've been sewing for maybe two years, and cosplaying/costumes are the first thing I started with. Since then, I've begun to sew a lot of clothes for myself as well.
Sewing on a sewing machine, although daunting, isn't too difficult if you have someone to show you or read the instruction book. Practice material is good too. Think about it as a skill, like driving. There's a pedal that controls speed, and your hands control the direction of the fabric. And, as always, the more you do it, the better you get.
Like one of the other postees said, as far as threading the machine and working it, the best thing would probably be to find someone to teach you or take a class since every machine is different.
On that note, every pattern and costume/cosplay is different. It ::would:: be nice to have a general "cosplay panel" but it's probably super difficult, as you have a variety of different genres of anime, thus producing an array of costuming needs. There are two panels this year though, one for beginners and one for more adept persons. I am planning on attending one for sure :)
If people need help though, I'm not a sewing guru or anything, but I'd be willing to answer basic questions... otherwise, ask your mom/granddad/aunt/uncle/relative, i'm sure someone in the family sews or knows someone who does ^-^ I think a good idea would be to set up a forum/email/talkspace that allows people with cosplay problems to get feedback...
And a tip for people wanting to do armor [it took me a long time to figure this out, so i'd like to pass it on]: flashing is very cool. You can get it at a hardware store [it's used to restore rain drains on the sides of houses] and it's thin metal that can be cut with regular scissors and then you can spray paint it, decorate it, glue it together [Hard As Nails works well with some heavy books to hold on top of it] whatever your armor needs require.
::hops off of soapbox:: gomen ne ^^;; now i'm done
See! That's the kind of stuff I wanna know! That flashing stuff will be very useful. Thanks! :D
yeah!
hm...the Cosplay Club at my school is essentially what you guys are suggesting- the basic how-tos of cosplaying. while many in the club are experienced, we've still got to teach the fundamentals to the less cosplay-experienced. as the year progresses, we teach more and more advanced stuff
i'm not sure if i can cover what we teach in a year in just one panel, but i'll discuss it with the President and see if we can do this.......
of course, that'll mean more paperwork and event organisation for me (VP) ^^"
good news- i've talked with the cosplay committee president, and she gave the okay for holding a panel
sOo....before we ask fanime for a spot, we're going to decide what to put on it. we were thinking of having separate panels for different cosplay levels- it'll be lecture-y, but we'll have some small hands-on tasks...
anyway, here's your chance to say what you want to learn! don't be shy- ask for anything, from basic hand-sewing to weaponry!
you guys HAVE a cosplay club!??!
what i would give to go to your school...
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umm, ...
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how about swords?
like the Zanbato, Tetsusaiga, and banryuu.
those kinds of weirdly large swords.
oookay. weapons. or woodwork.
anything else? was there someone out there who wants to learn basic hand sewing or something?
*raises hand*
im sure a lot of other people do to ^^
Sorry for reactivating this thread, but I just joined this forum. I'd be interested in attending a cosplay panel. I've helped my sister and nephew with costumes for sci-fi conventions and Yaoi-Con last year, and the biggest problem we had was in first identifying the details that went in to a particular costume (is that scarf sewn on or just attached with a pin or just hanging there!). THEN we had to get a pattern, or adjust an existing pattern. Can the discussion include tips on drafting/initial sketches. (ooo, maybe we could get a practice piece of paper and pencil with a model to pose for us) Details/embellishments. Accessories. I know this is important to some: what about what one wears underneath? How authentic and detailed does cosplay get? That sort of stuff. If you think this is rambling, sorry!
hey, no problem! i was actually wondering if anyone was still interested since i'm considering heading this panel...
anyway, i'm not sure how to go about making a panel out of what you suggested. perhaps have everyone analyze a few characters.
that might actually work- if we can manage to get an overhead projector, an image can be projected and attendents can discuss how best construct it. so the panel would be like the following:
1. show image(s) of one character, take a moment to analyze it
2. discussion of the elements of the outfit- how many layers of clothing? what types of clothing? what is underneath? what are the accessories? (basically deconstruct the outfit)
3. pick an element and discuss how best to construct it- what materials are needed? (discuss how different materials pertain to different types of characters)
4. questions
i would probably show at least 3 characters of differing levels of complexity. we can discuss clothing, accessories, and weaponry. how does that sound? i can provide paper and pencils for the attendents if you guys want to take notes. in the end, we can have a "general questions" session.
drafting patterns and such is kind of hard to explain, especially to a large number of people. that would be more of a one-on-one thing, and i *could* attempt to teach you if you asked me in person at the con. altering patterns, however, can be an element of discussion at the panel.
as for authenticity and detail, it really depends on the cosplayer. cosplayers range anywhere from "just dressed for the fun" to "obsessively dressed." for me, i'm more on the "obsessively dressed" side ^^" honostly, if i knew what kind of underwear a character wore, i would make it and wear it ^^;; of course, there are certain restrictions set to protect the safety (and sanity) of others, so no real weaponry and no nudity are the two rules that always apply. basically, you decide how authentic you want to make your outfit. the best thing to do is to at least make yourself recognisable.
i hoped that help, and it would be great if i got more feedback on this panel! i haven't contacted fanime about scheduling it yet because i don't know what you guys really want to do and it would be pointless to take up space if there's no interest. please comment, thanks!
O____O
whenever i talk to you, a mental image of a needle pops up. youre so cosplay oriented XD
what three characters were you thinking?
doesnt matter. just a easy one (simple clothing), medium one (average clothing w/accessories), and a hard one (difficult/special clothing- like armor- and weapons/large props)
...fruits basket uniform, eternal sailor moon, and... BANKOTSU! O_O
Sorry if this gets double-posted, I keep getting logged out.
heh heh. Pretear: Himeno gets a different outfit every time she 'prets' with one of the knights. No, just kidding. Do you suppose a basic school uniform for one? (Azumanga Daioh, Yu Yu Hakusho, Ranma, etc.). Unless that's toooo basic.
first off: you guys do like the schedule i had in mind then?
second: what day would you guys like to have the panel? also, how long? i'm thinking at the very least, 1.5 hours. should probably get a 2 hour slot, though
please answer those questions and pitch in suggestions of your own!
also: if anyone has any characters they'd like to see (preferabley characters you want to cosplay as in the future because this might be more helpful to you that way), feel free to post their names and what anime/manga/game they're from.
first off: you guys do like the schedule i had in mind then?
second: what day would you guys like to have the panel? also, how long? i'm thinking at the very least, 1.5 hours. should probably get a 2 hour slot, though
please answer those questions and pitch in suggestions of your own!
also: if anyone has any characters they'd like to see (preferabley characters you want to cosplay as in the future because this might be more helpful to you that way), feel free to post their names and what anime/manga/game they're from.
that was a two-post.
hmm...try something like...chinese cultural, martial art gi's, ancient japan, schoolgirl fuku? basic stuff like that.
2 hours, with willing volunteers.
...
i just noticed how funny it would be if a cosplayer was attending. nyahaha.
Quote from: "hakudoushi"that was a two-post.
poo. *kills wireless internet. no wait, that's not good*
Quote from: "hakudoushi"hmm...try something like...chinese cultural, martial art gi's, ancient japan, schoolgirl fuku? basic stuff like that.
2 hours, with willing volunteers.
...
volunteers? for what?
Quote from: "hakudoushi"i just noticed how funny it would be if a cosplayer was attending. nyahaha.
it would be fine for cosplayers to attend. i mean, not everyone knows how to make weapons/armor or sew ruffled shirts, etc. not funny at all- i would probably attend such a panel if someone else was hosting ^__^
i dunno what volunteers are for...maybe for trying things? like i dont know... umm... i dunno O_o
i thought it would be funny if someone dressed up in some j-rock costume with all the feathers and stuff like that and took notes...because theyre usually pretty good at cosplay. O_O;
Uh, how do I get this to show as a quote from your message? Anyway,
if you couldn't get the projector, a large poster would probably do just as well. As to scheduling, not knowing when other events are scheduled, I'm guessing maybe sometime on Saturday would be okay? Maybe early in the day?
1. show image(s) of one character, take a moment to analyze it
2. discussion of the elements of the outfit- how many layers of clothing? what types of clothing? what is underneath? what are the accessories? (basically deconstruct the outfit)
3. pick an element and discuss how best to construct it- what materials are needed? (discuss how different materials pertain to different types of characters)
4. questions
i would probably show at least 3 characters of differing levels of complexity. we can discuss clothing, accessories, and weaponry. how does that sound? i can provide paper and pencils for the attendents if you guys want to take notes. in the end, we can have a "general questions" session.
[/b][/quote]
yeah, i was thinking of a large poster, too.
to quote something, go to the entry you want to quote. on the right upper corner there is a button that says "quote." just click that ^__^
Thanks for the info on quotes. Hm, how about if a cosplayer was on the panel? Or at least available to describe (in 10 minutes or less) how they made their outfit. ???
2 hours would probably be fine. Hm.
well...you kinda have to be a cosplayer to lead the panel. *points to self* okay, i can explain how i made my outfit(s) and then get on with the rest of the program. yes, that could work.
i cant!
:D
me: er...i made this by...er...sewing it. yes. thats it. >_>;;;;;; and i made the arrows by...er...sticking clay on them. and the bow by...er...something....and the ...the...umm.... umm...
o_O;;;
lol don't worry, i can explain ^^"
yay. XD
Sorry to bump this up...
Was it decided what to cover?
May I suggest there be a basic basics panel too? So you can cover straight stitch (handstitch)? A lot of cosplayers walk around held together with duct tape, glue and safety pins because they don't even know a simple straight stitch. And how many times do you hear, "I want to make a costume but I can't sew"?
Quote from: "Leloi's echo""I want to make a costume but I can't sew"...
Quote from: "Leloi's echo""I want to make a costume but I can't sew"......
Quote from: "Leloi's echo""I want to make a costume but I can't sew".........
I feel the pain. Oh,
God, it hurts!
Does it cover how to make your own patterns/rip from other patterns/whatnot?
this is a LOT to cover ^^"
how about i go through step-by-step how i made one of my outfits, or how i *would* make an outfit, then take questions?
so far people want:
basic sewing
sewing machine basics
creating patterns
editting patterns
reading patterns
armor
weapons
fabrics- which to use?
general cosplay (uh...what does this mean?)
details/embellishments
acessorizing
figuring out what goes underneathe
like someone said, there should be three separate panels:
costume construction
armor
props
i don't feel like i'm qualified to head an armor panel since this is my first year experimenting with that sort of thing. props, maybe...still, i feel most confident with the costume construction bit.
i feel that there shoudnt really be a basic sewing/sewing machine panel (sorry). you can go take a sewing class for that, or feel free to ask me directly at-con ^__^ i don't bite, unless the character i'm cosplaying bites people. and i dont think i have any of those planned for this year ^^"
does anyone want to collaborate with me? (help would be appreciated!)
dude, i can help. i shall be the little example person who doesnt know anything. because i DONT know anything. T_T;
That's why we're actually interested in this panel in the first place, right? XDD
edit: depends on what kind of help you need. I probably can help.
I would be more than happy to help you. I've been costuming for 13 years... and fabric stores own my soul.
I'm not very good at props or armor, but I can help with these topics:
basic sewing
sewing machine basics
creating patterns
editing patterns
reading patterns
fabrics- which to use?
details/embellishments
figuring out what goes underneath
accessories
As long as the panel isn't during Der Cosplay practice or rehearsal... I'll be free.
goody, that's probably all we can cover anyway! ^____^ i don't think we should focus on basic sewing stuff...sewing classes are for that. i think more on the costume analysis (figuring out what's under, how the costume is worn, etc) and pattern making should be focused on more...
i have no idea really how to teach people to make patterns...
Quote from: "hellangel"goody, that's probably all we can cover anyway! ^____^ i don't think we should focus on basic sewing stuff...sewing classes are for that. i think more on the costume analysis (figuring out what's under, how the costume is worn, etc) and pattern making should be focused on more...
i have no idea really how to teach people to make patterns...
Measurements... lots and lots of measurements. That's how I make kimono. ^^v Also finding similar existing patterns and modifying them...
I like the idea of "what's under" and "how to wear" because a lot of people focus on the outside and ignore what's underneath.
Layer cheating is ok if the costume is already bulky (ie, a 7 layer kimono). But a lot of layer cheating just seems to come from lack of research. I suppose giving them clues on how to research the costume would be good.
yeah, measurements, but i don't know how to explain how to put that on paper in connect-the-section pieces....sometimes i don't even make a pattern i just go, eh, that looks right, cut and sew
i can explain modifying patterns, though
YES RESEARCH i do a LOT of research before i even consider what type of fabric to use...even research on HOW to wear/put on the outfit, everything little detail gives clues on how it's made *nod nod*
good, good. so how do we want to run this? do you like the idea i had before, with the two or three sample costume analysis, one easy and one hard?
Quote from: "hellangel"good, good. so how do we want to run this? do you like the idea i had before, with the two or three sample costume analysis, one easy and one hard?
Lucky for us, things like kimono are usually straight seams... they are so easy to make with just measurements. Although I should bring my "Make your own Japanese clothes" book. Actually there are several books I could bring. Most of my resource books are historical... Medieval, Viking, general "clothing through history", folkwear, Japanese... if we want to pick something along that vein we could pretend to use one of the books as a "resource."
I do like the idea of two or three sample costume analysis. I suppose we'll need something to draw a mock up pattern on.
Hmm... one we could use a book as source... another we could use a modified pattern....
ehh, sorry you guys, looks like this isnt happening this year! (at least, i can't host it) i've been sick and got too much on my hands! sorry!
hey can anyone answer the following question for me: WHY ISNT THE CONVENTION SCHEDULE UP ON THE WEBSITE YET?!
cuz.
Evidently the schedule was posted after your post. I'm sorry the sewing panel didn't make it this year, hopefully next year!
i will support and go to this panel. 'Nuff said.
i'd go to this panel as well, i'm always looking for new tips to help improve my cosplayings skills ^_~
if you need help i can. i'm not the best in the owrld but i do sew my own costumes, and they last for a while. but i think that for a begining pannal that it should be keep simple. if you start going into to much, you could over while a person and then you'll have to either unconfussed them or sacre them off. it's like talking about ainme, little does it at a time. , sorry if i damped any thoughts. it just my opinon. :oops:
wellll.
i'm glad there's still so much enthusiasm! =D
unfortunately, i won't be able to take charge of such an event this year (shakes fist at SATs and AP tests). if someone wants to take the wheel, though, i'll be happy to be a tag-along helper.
well, I don't have SAT or ACT, but I wouldn't mind helping out either.
Someone, please raise their hand and be the staffers to run these panels. I would love you for the rest of my life, and your beatuful name would be a part of my headstone!
These panels are very closely related to the fashion/cosplay part our Fanime community. The open staff positions will be posted on Fanime's website very soon. However, if you think you have the commitment and the idea pool to materialize all these wonderful suggestions that float here on the bb, we shouldl work out some staffing options right away.
Damn! I want these Panels! Let me know who wants to do it! I would love to support it!
Sincerely,
Jason Ebner
The "New" Programming Director.
Okay! Even though our club disbanded this year, my former Cosplay officers are willing to take the challenge.
So: How would you all like it to be run?
Jason did ask me if we could do three separate panels: beginning, intermediate, and advanced.
I was thinking of doing more specific stuff, since some people can sew but aren't sure where to start, and vice-versa, etc, etc...
List me the courses you'd like to take! I have in mind so far:
Costume analysis (equivilent to "Beginning" - where to start on your cosplay)
Costume design (probably more helpful for those people who want to make original outfits, or stuff like Gothic Lolita; maybe combine this with costume analysis?)
Basic sewing essentials (definately beginners- basic sewing stuff, might want to get tables for this, though)
Props and accessories: the tiny details (beading, jewelry, the little things that make an outfit complete)
I'd rather stay away from weaponry and wigs, though, since that can get pretty complicated in terms of supply transport and such ^^"
Quote from: "hellangel"Jason did ask me if we could do three separate panels: beginning, intermediate, and advanced.
I was thinking of doing more specific stuff, since some people can sew but aren't sure where to start, and vice-versa, etc, etc...
List me the courses you'd like to take! I have in mind so far:
Costume analysis (equivilent to "Beginning" - where to start on your cosplay)
Costume design (probably more helpful for those people who want to make original outfits, or stuff like Gothic Lolita; maybe combine this with costume analysis?)
Basic sewing essentials (definately beginners- basic sewing stuff, might want to get tables for this, though)
Props and accessories: the tiny details (beading, jewelry, the little things that make an outfit complete)
I'd rather stay away from weaponry and wigs, though, since that can get pretty complicated in terms of supply transport and such ^^"
Hey, sounds like each of these can be accommodated to one room with a scheduled lineup of tutorials. Would you rather do this as a 'panel' where the demonstrators speak in front of a panel audience? Would you rather do this in small groups so that a) everyone who wants to learn can bring something to work on and b) everyone can help each other and get the attention of those running the panel?
Yes, weaponry and wigs could/should be reserved for something else. I personally think weaponry requires a shop and shop machines if people want to work their best.
I was thinking of working in a sort of workshop/tutorial-esque way. Whatever that means to me...^^"
I kind of imagined everyone having a little something...It really depends on what we're working on, I guess. For Costume Analysis, we can project an image of a character and have everyone, er, analyze it that way. For Basic Sewing, I want everyone to make something simple and small, like a mini tote bag. (Between myself and the other two cosplayers I'm working with, we've probably go enough fabric to cover the panel.)
I like the idea of having one room scheduled for Cosplay Tutorials. I just don't want to stay there all con, though! How about we have different cosplayers teach each? My staff will just cover tutorial lineup, supplies, etc...
Anyone willing to volunteer their skills? Please post a list of stuff you'd be willing to teach!
For everyone else who is interested in using these panels to learn- post what you'd like to know!
umm, how to make wings. xDD
Quote from: "hakudoushi"umm, how to make wings. xDD
Feather wing, right? I can do that, but it'll have to be a visual demonstration. It's too messy to have everyone make their own little pair of wings ^^" (feather fluff gets EVERYWHERE O_o")
Quote from: "hakudoushi"umm, how to make wings. xDD
Sounds like a topic which different designers/crafters can interpret differently. I imagine that different options and techniques can be laid out in categories of difficulty rather than in categories of 'wings', 'belts', etc. You gotta admit, even though wings are a different kind of cosplay adornment from jacket and pants, there are similar construction principles and difficulty levels that span costuming in general.
Quote from: "Captaine Kit"Quote from: "hakudoushi"umm, how to make wings. xDD
Sounds like a topic which different designers/crafters can interpret differently. I imagine that different options and techniques can be laid out in categories of difficulty rather than in categories of 'wings', 'belts', etc. You gotta admit, even though wings are a different kind of cosplay adornment from jacket and pants, there are similar construction principles and difficulty levels that span costuming in general.
...right. but if we are going to just have a "cosplay tutorial room", we might as well have all these little things in the line-up. and if someone figures out a different way to make something- hey, all the more power to ya! =D it's hard to catagorize by difficulty levels because one person may be a great prop maker but not so hot at sewing, or vice versa. everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, and some people just want to learn something new.
eh, I dunno what I'm talking about @___@ What panels/tutorials do you suggest, then?
Thanks for the ideas! Sharing craft knowledge is our main goal here, right? So if 'wing construction tutorial' helps to spread that knowledge better than 'difficulty level tutorial', then I'll go with your idea.
The thing is, I'm not for the teaching of feather wing construction specifically, even though that's the most used in cosplay (and in second, batty demon wings). You know how there's different materials, structures and issues of which is the best method for a certain situation? I would rather get everyone to learn about different materials and methods to make the body of the wings. @anyone: You decide on the structure of your wings, then I'll give you the feathers to finish off the surface.
It seems we are headed in the direction of teacher-led, group activities so that everyone can make the same kind of thing--anyone remember Home Ec?
And now for the most time sensitive issue to be addressed: Who is committed to running the panel? How would you outline its schedule? What materials, people and equipment do you need? How much of that is fom you, and how much will be requested?
well, my, er, "staff," I guess, is willing to run the overall layout of this. I've PMed Jason asking about what he thinks about the "Cosplay Tutorial Room" idea. If he likes it, we can start recruiting people, from cosplay forums/communities/cosplayers I've met at cons, etc. (internet is a beautiful thing)
Once we've got the line-up set, we'll request material needs from each of the tutors. Then we'll scrounge up stuff (between the three of us, we have enough fabric and whatnot to cover the entire con floor ^^"), and whatever we *do* need, we'll order in bulk. Besides, whatever isn't used up can be saved for the following year...or for our own concoctions =D
...I wonder if we can dip a bit into our Anime Club funds for this, if necessary >=D...
in a sense, my "staff" is basically the facilitors and managers of the event. we might not even teach, though we could.
Quote from: "hellangel"
...I wonder if we can dip a bit into our Anime Club funds for this, if necessary >=D...
Nope. Sorry. XDD Won't fly by Amy.
pleeeeeeeeeeeeease????????
oh- staff got back to me. they're organizing stuff and will give us details of whatever in a month...
You have my vote. I don't know what I'll do when my costume making friend leaves me. I need to develop the skills to cosplay on my own terms. power to the PEOPLE! *ahack*
If someone could help me figure out how to make a jacket, I'd be pretty grateful. The patterns just don't make any sense to me. ^^
Quote from: "Gwydion"If someone could help me figure out how to make a jacket, I'd be pretty grateful. The patterns just don't make any sense to me. ^^
Patterns have instructions included. If you haven't used patterns much, reading them is helpful to get started =D There's a lot of new techniques you can learn from those things, surprisingly!
(Although ready-made patterns tend to confuse me, too, but that's because I usually make my own patterns, which I design differently than commercially-made patterns ^^")
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Word back from staff is that I don't have a room to run continuous tutorials in (apparently my Cosplay Room idea was forgotten -__-"), but I *might* be able to run a few panels here and there.
So! I need to consolidate Cosplay into those one-or-two panels. Be specific now and tell me what you want so we can get going~
so is this panel/workshop/thingy actually going to happen? Because i'd be happy to help.
I've only started cosplaying in the last year, but i have 7+ years of traditional sewing experience, so i could do anything involving basic sewing, costume construction, interpreting commercial patterns, etc.
I'd also LOVE it if people did a "fabric theory" portion of the workshop- basics of choosing the right fabric and everything (do not use unstretchy satin for the swimsuit, just because it's pretty, or fabric with no drape for the flowing dress) because that's one of my pet peeves...>___<
I also have a lot of traditional sewing resources that people might not know about- discount/bulk fabric stores, why historical pattern places are gold for cosplay....
Quote from: "AnnoyedWabbit"so is this panel/workshop/thingy actually going to happen? Because i'd be happy to help.
I've only started cosplaying in the last year, but i have 7+ years of traditional sewing experience, so i could do anything involving basic sewing, costume construction, interpreting commercial patterns, etc.
I'd also LOVE it if people did a "fabric theory" portion of the workshop- basics of choosing the right fabric and everything (do not use unstretchy satin for the swimsuit, just because it's pretty, or fabric with no drape for the flowing dress) because that's one of my pet peeves...>___<
I also have a lot of traditional sewing resources that people might not know about- discount/bulk fabric stores, why historical pattern places are gold for cosplay....
awesome!
that's a lot to jump off of...I'm still kind of uncertain about how to consolidate everything into one/two panels.
HEY! what if we have a Q&A panel for cosplay? there can be several of us cosplayers, and people can just ask us questions. that would give a more general overview of cosplay, wouldn't it?
and if you're still concerned about "learning," I've been thinking of setting up some sort of Cosplay Boot camp over the summer, when there'd be a few weeks of ongoing cosplay tutorials (and craziness). If I set this up and made it work, would anyone here like to come? it's been something I've been thinking of doing for a while =]
"Q&A" format sounds cool. ^__^
In case you need anyone else to help host the panel, I'd be more than happy to help out. Been sewing for years! (Around 6...) ^_^ GREAT idea on this BTW. Even if you don't need my help, I think I'll be attending.
Keep me updated!
Okay, so the Panel/Workshop application thingy is up. Shall I apply to make a Cosplay Q&A session? I guess I'll be host or something- I want to get a variety of different cosplayers with different skills on the board. Once I decide what those categories are, I'll make a post and you can apply directly to me.
How's that sound? Do we still want to make a panel happen?
sounds cool to me...
Yes Hell angel! Please do so! I would love it!
Jason Ebner
Head of Programming
FanimeCon 2006
well, i submitted a request thingy yesterday. or the day before. or something ^^" so it's a go if it's approved!
Jason, when do we know? I need to gather supplies and stuff, and there's a chance that I can use this to fulfill some sort of academic award, so I need to know ASAP. Thanks ^___^
Are there any other aspects that need to be covered for cosplay?
So far I have in.
Basic Cosplay Panel - General/All Around
Wing Construction
Wig Construction
Tailoring for the Real Body
I'm also working with the possibility of splitting the Cosplay basics panel into a Basic and Advanced. (Should the people I have lined up be cool with it.) Is there anything else that would go beyond that?
Here's kind of what I had in mind:
*General Cosplay - Q&A Panel (ideally the first panel in this bunch to start things off =D)
*Beginner's Panel: Basic Hand-Sewing
*Beginner's Panel: Choosing the Right Fabric
*Wing Construction
*Introduction to Wig Work
*Designing for Fashion and Cosplay
*Pattern-making: Creating a New Pattern/Pattern Modification
*General Loli Information Panel (differences between EGL/Sweet loli/etc, key components of the style, etc)
*Overview on Propwork and Accessories (materials, where to get them, how to use them, painting, etc)
*Keeping It Con-Safe: How to Look Good Without Getting Hunted Down by Con Staff (uhm...I'm still kind of playing with this idea...)
*Crossplay: From Female to Male (female attendees only)
*Crossplay: From Male to Female (male attendees only)
*Online Cosplay: The Dos and Don'ts of Buying Online
*How to Start a Commissions Business
Plus whatever else fills up time. These are just stuff that I came up with. I want the Cosplay Room to be open and running on the day of the Masquerade and the Fashion Show (they're on the same day, right? If not, then the day of the Masquerade is preferred). I'd like the panels to start running at maybe 10 or 11 AM. There will be no panels run during the time Masquerade participants have a meeting, and the last panel will be run two hours before the Masquerade so that everyone can go to the Masquerade! (And so that the people actually in the Masquerade can go there.)
There will also be no panels run two hours before and during the Fashion Show so that attendees can go see that, too ^__~
A new panel will be run at the start of each hour (meaning the longest one panel can run is one hour).
Tailoring for the Real Body sounds interesting...what is that exactly? Like how to take measurements or something?
I don't really want to separate stuff into too much of the beginner-intermediate-advanced categories since there's plenty of people out there who can do one thing but not the other (i.e. okay at sewing, not good at making patterns - is that beginner or intermediate?). If the panels were just separated into topics, people could go to what they wanted to work on =]
Hey, fullmetalneko, does this mean that my proposal was approved? Can I start looking for tutors for the panels? (I'm not running all of them, per se, but I will be hosting/running a few and basicaly float around making sure everything is running.)
Also, every panel attendee will get a "tutorial sheet" for that specific panel, which the attendee can keep for reference (for example, the Propwork panel would have a list of suggested materials of use, etc.).
Here is the list so far.
Beginning Cosplay
Advanced Cosplay
Advanced Techniques: Armor Making
Cosplay for the Real Body
Wig Making Techniques
Wing Making Techniques
We don't have any specific Goth Loli construction panels. But in the Cosplay for the Real Body panel, I believe (from the description I was given.) It is tailoring as well as the overall planning. Picking a costume that can be altered to flatter your body. Then the alteration there of.
Though the one that id be interested in is the prop one (the one you said you are toying with lol). If Jason and possibly con-ops might get in on it, it could be a pretty valuable idea. Let me know!
*Keeping It Con-Safe: How to Look Good Without Getting Hunted Down by Con Staff
this one?
if we can get con-ops staff to hold this one, that would be great. basically an overview of what's allowed and what's not allowed. then we can have cosplayers give tips on how to make stuff and still adhere to those rules
Dude, if there were any way I could help with this panel, I would. I tend to go into historical research when it comes to clothing. That's how my InuYasha group got an Honorable Mention at another con...
Seriously though, I'd go to one that covered more than just the "Cosplay 101" stuff that I commonly see.