FanimeCon 2026 Forums

Many things happen during con and sometimes it would be nice to have a space where you could sit with other cosplayers and quietly talk, catch a few moments of sanity, a sure fire place to meet your friends that are coming in, or maybe sit and read some of the manga you got the night before at the swap meet. Would it be nice to have a space just for cosplayers to "hang out" during the day?

Well my staff and I have thought of just that and so much more! If there was a "Cosplayer Hangout" place where what I described above could be found, would you use it? What would you like to see in there? What could be put in there that isn't already available for the cosplayers at Fanime Con?

This would be a room, with a table & chair set up that would accommodate gatherings/events like Texas Hold 'Em, Ouran High School Host Club, maybe even a Hetalia Axis Powers board room where unique photos could be taken with out the disruptions of other attendees, people who smoke, over excite attendees, trash strewn areas, loud and obnoxious protesters and other crazy mayhem that can get on our cosplaying nerves.

The question is would the cosplayers want this Hangout place and what kind of things would you like to see in it? I'm not making promises that any or all of it could be done this year, but know that Cosplayer Gatherings has acquired permission to run a "Cosplayer Hangout" place and I would like to make it a little piece of paradise for a few moments in our crazy cosplaying days at con.

Help make this place our Cosplayer Hangout! Your feed back is really important here so please speak up!

Cosplayer Hangout 2012 Hours:
Days: Thursday (day zero) evening, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Times:
Open ~ TBA
Closed ~ TBA
Location: TBA

Cosplayer Hangout Special Events:
Thursday evening:
Friday evening:
Saturday evening:
Sunday evening:


C2C CH = Cosplayer 2 Cosplayer Hangout Donations needed:
Case of water:
cups for water:
(3) Bar Stools:
(3) small bean bags for Chocobo Corner:
Board games for Chocobo Corner:
~Candyland:
~Shuttes and Laders:
~Monkeys in a Barrel:
~other:
Coloring books:
small packs of color crayons:
Styrofome Ice Chest (for our cool off station):

I would LOVE this myself!

Here's what I would throw in there if I had every possible resource:

1. Seating, and various kinds. Stools/benches would be great because sometimes people have costumes that can't get in a chair with a back in it (I had this problem with a costume that had hip and butt armor). Tables wouldn't be bad either so that people who need to take something off can lay it somewhere Not On The Floor.

2. Water. Sometimes you just can't carry a bottle with you, and having some water on hand would be an excellent way to get necessary fluids.

3. A repair station. While I am aware that Anime LA tends to sponsor a mini-repair station at their table when they are at an event (like they did last year), it would be great to have some supplies on hand to fix stuff in that room as well. Note, this would be for -fixing- costumes that are already on you, not for building your stuff at the last minute ;)

4. Full length mirrors. That way, when one is ready to leave, they can check their stuff is OK before they go. Again, not for extensive use. If someone needs to put full-on make up together, they should go to their hotel room ideally, or even to a bathroom (though hopefully without mess).

5. A few minions that can help with costumes as needed/requested.


But that's just my thoughts, and I am probably asking for all too many pretty pink ponies :)

Quote from: Dany on January 18, 2011, 08:35:13 AM
I would LOVE this myself!

Here's what I would throw in there if I had every possible resource:

1. Seating, and various kinds. Stools/benches would be great because sometimes people have costumes that can't get in a chair with a back in it (I had this problem with a costume that had hip and butt armor). Tables wouldn't be bad either so that people who need to take something off can lay it somewhere Not On The Floor.

2. Water. Sometimes you just can't carry a bottle with you, and having some water on hand would be an excellent way to get necessary fluids.

3. A repair station. While I am aware that Anime LA tends to sponsor a mini-repair station at their table when they are at an event (like they did last year), it would be great to have some supplies on hand to fix stuff in that room as well. Note, this would be for -fixing- costumes that are already on you, not for building your stuff at the last minute ;)

4. Full length mirrors. That way, when one is ready to leave, they can check their stuff is OK before they go. Again, not for extensive use. If someone needs to put full-on make up together, they should go to their hotel room ideally, or even to a bathroom (though hopefully without mess).

5. A few minions that can help with costumes as needed/requested.


But that's just my thoughts, and I am probably asking for all too many pretty pink ponies :)

Ask for the ponies! XD
1. Awesome ~ don't know why I didn't think of this cause I couldn't sit in Siren last year unless it was on my knees and backwards or I would have messed up her feathers! ~ See what I can do to get one or two stools...
2. Water station has already been requested and I think we might be able to swing it..
3. We were going to throw together a small repair kit, but were curious what to put in it. Would ALA be willing to help out with a small repair station in here? Do you know?
4. Like the full length mirror idea too, have to see if we can arrainge something... lol maybe fun house mirror lol jk.
5. The room will have staff in it and those that enter will need to have their badge to get access.

Pretty pink ponies :) Love em!

I think it's a good idea because previously, cosplayers have used the hotel lounge area for this purpose, which probably doesn't thrill them too much. As long as it's close to the con and advertised well, it should work out nicely. I'll leave suggestions later if I think of them.

This sounds like a fantastic idea. ;D

I love the convention, but sometimes, a cosplayer just needs a break. It'd be lovely to have an area where you can just relax and meet up with fellow cosplayers in a less chaotic setting. Also, for some people, like me who have a hotel far away from the Convention (Motel 6), the idea of a having a room where you can get away from the mainstream of the convention sounds perfect. Plus, it's better then having to fight for a place on the floor. Where you are in people's walk way or causing trouble for a picture.


All in all, great idea! Hope it works!

Quote from: BSaphire on January 18, 2011, 08:48:17 AMAsk for the ponies! XD
1. Awesome ~ don't know why I didn't think of this cause I couldn't sit in Siren last year unless it was on my knees and backwards or I would have messed up her feathers! ~ See what I can do to get one or two stools...

Excellent. Anything without a back or that one can situate themselves so that back-hanging things have a place to go.

Quote2. Water station has already been requested and I think we might be able to swing it..

Schaweeeet! I figured water could be easy, especially if it's just small cups of stuff that won't interfere with water being sold on the floor.

Quote3. We were going to throw together a small repair kit, but were curious what to put in it. Would ALA be willing to help out with a small repair station in here? Do you know?

Hazel Chaz (the ALA convention head) would be the person to chat up on what he typically carries for his table. Given his space restrictions, he probably wouldn't have as much as he would like, so having somewhere to refer folks for what he doesn't have will probably help him a lot, plus people can go to whichever station is closer to them.

Meantime, here's a few ideas of things I've seen pop up frequently and can think of off of the top of my head:

-Safety pins
-Needles/threads
-Resc-Q Tape/Fashion Tape
-Hot Glue Gun/Glue
-Various tapes (black electrical, duct tape, etc)
-Scissors
-Hair Spray (aerosol or pump, depending on the use)
-Buttons of various colors
-Light but sturdy string
-Leather cording (brown/black in particular)
-Sharpies in various colors, most importantly black, silver, and gold (the silver and gold are good replacements for offering loose paint, which could be a mess)

There is a lot of other things I could think of, but I'm trying to keep it reasonable ;)

Quote4. Like the full length mirror idea too, have to see if we can arrainge something... lol maybe fun house mirror lol jk.
5. The room will have staff in it and those that enter will need to have their badge to get access.

A last thought: simple first aid. Nothing fancy, but perhaps bandaids for people who develop a sudden blister from their shoes and cold compresses for someone who is hot but not dangerously overheated (where true First Aid would need to get involved).

QuotePretty pink ponies :) Love em!

At least I'm not asking for Fist of the North Star-sized horses :)

I don't think the minor first aid stuff should be a problem either. The Cosplay Minions is a great idea, I'm sure that one particular staff member would just love being called a minion. I know I do. XD
My own suggestions for this room are; a reasonable noise limit, strict enforcement of common courtesy, and a basic time limit.
I know that having a break from the crazy that is the CC entrance is nice, but I don't think that sitting in the room all day would be all that great either. I know that there will be people who will end up staying there all day long, for one reason or another.
Other than that, I think this will be a great room to have for the department!! I know that I'll probably make use of it. If I don't, I know that I'll wish I had. ^^

B -- if you guys did decide to go for your own repair kit and you wanted to make a wishlist, I'd be more than happy to pitch in some stuff for it.  I'm in the midst of a massive housecleaning, and finding silly things like three spools of steam-a-seam and bundles of unopened hairpins and packets of needles that I'll probably never use and would be happy to donate if they'd prove useful.

(Moleskin would be a fabulous first-aid station thingy: cosplayers + new shoes + tromping around con = blister city.)

I love this idea, and I hope it manages to work out!

Quote from: maikiritori on January 19, 2011, 12:43:46 AMMy own suggestions for this room are; a reasonable noise limit, strict enforcement of common courtesy, and a basic time limit.

Seconded.

The room is already approved and they are talking about locating it in the Hilton. I added a list to the first post. Keep the suggestions coming and I will answer any previous questions a little later. 3 hours on line answering and updating everything everywhere has left my right hand numb (darn carpletunnel) so I need a break.

Squidges and Thanks to everyone who has voted/posted so far!
BTW @ maikiritori: You were tempted to be my "devil" on the poll huh *giggle* there's no denying that it was hard for you to resist :P but in the end we want the Fanime "Powers that be" to know how we honestly feel/think so it was good you didn't :)

Squidges
B

Quote from: Charis on January 19, 2011, 08:57:37 AM
B -- if you guys did decide to go for your own repair kit and you wanted to make a wishlist, I'd be more than happy to pitch in some stuff for it.  I'm in the midst of a massive housecleaning, and finding silly things like three spools of steam-a-seam and bundles of unopened hairpins and packets of needles that I'll probably never use and would be happy to donate if they'd prove useful.

I might have a few items too, or I might also have some plastic containers to put the stuff in as well. I'm trying to upgrade my storage supplies and I have some small plastic storage things that may not end up having any purpose. I'd gladly pass those on.

Another thought...and this is more of a silly idea than anything else: I have a small, yet formidable bag of fabric and scraps of fabric that I don't want to throw out, but I don't need for any projects. Perhaps something for either a) fabric swapping or b) just a big fabric grab-bag that people could peruse (and hopefully NOT make a big mess with) could be something to consider as an idea?

In a perfect scenario for seating there would be:

lounge chairs
bean bag chairs
barstools
a couch or two
and a few tables both normal and coffee style.


I think I can donate a roll or two of gaffer's tape.

@ Charis: Let me know what you can donate and I will put your name next to it. Thanx :)

@ Rodney_Phoenix: Oh MY GOSH! A Roll of Gaffers would be awesome! My tech guys would greatly appreciate it! Adding you :)

@ Dany: I was thinking that a small tubby or two would be really good for stuff that can get leaky. I was also thinking some zip lock plastic bags in quart & gallon size would help keep things from getting super scrambled & we can list the contents on the bag :)

I have thought about my left over fabric and scraps often and wondered what to do with em.
My first thought (years ago) was to have cosplayers take their left overs and make a 6" quilt block that they could sign and then sew all the blocks together into a quilt. We could then raffle the quilt (s) off to the cosplayers the following year.

If this idea was even remotely possible this year it would require all the blocks to come in on Thursday & Friday with one or two peeps manning sewing machines to whip it all together just to have it for the Saturday or Sunday raffle. That would be a WHOLE lot of WORK on top of everything for this year. HOWEVER :) if cospeeps wanted to donate the block this year it would give us a year to get it together for next year.

My other though was to do a Fabric Swap where peeps could bring a small bag of fabric and swap it for another bag of fabric. I would like to narrow this idea down a bit so that it was effective and I don't think I could swing it this year. I think it would be great to do though.

keep the ideas coming everyone and post any donations to the Cosplayer to Cosplayer Repair box!
Squidges
B

B -- right off the bat, I've got an extra hot glue gun (mini size; low temp only, I think?) that you're welcome to have for the kit, and some glue sticks to go with it.  I'll see if I can scrounge up a box to store it in as well.  I've also got a ton of white bobby pins (thanks to a giant container on sale at Sally's one time) and some miscellaneous colours of hairpins I'll set aside to bring.
I'm sure I'll find other stuff, but I'll let you know as that comes up. :)  Thanks for doing this!

(One other suggestion for the room: a roll of paper towels and a Tide and/or bleach pen or two.  Those things are lifesavers for costume mishaps!)

Re. the quilt idea: if it were possible to have some address to post things to, you could always set a date (sometime after this Fanime but far enough before the next) for people to send the blocks in by.  I admit I'm curious to see what sort of stuff would come together -- I've never quilted, but I love looking at 'em.

I got rid of my last scrap bag by throwing it at a bunch of friends who have dollfies to make stuff for them, but I'm well on my way to another one.  It'd be easier to throw things out, but they might be useful some day! <_<;;;;;;

Quote from: Charis on January 20, 2011, 09:07:01 AM
B -- right off the bat, I've got an extra hot glue gun (mini size; low temp only, I think?) that you're welcome to have for the kit, and some glue sticks to go with it.  I'll see if I can scrounge up a box to store it in as well.  I've also got a ton of white bobby pins (thanks to a giant container on sale at Sally's one time) and some miscellaneous colours of hairpins I'll set aside to bring.
I'm sure I'll find other stuff, but I'll let you know as that comes up. :)  Thanks for doing this!

(One other suggestion for the room: a roll of paper towels and a Tide and/or bleach pen or two.  Those things are lifesavers for costume mishaps!)

Re. the quilt idea: if it were possible to have some address to post things to, you could always set a date (sometime after this Fanime but far enough before the next) for people to send the blocks in by.  I admit I'm curious to see what sort of stuff would come together -- I've never quilted, but I love looking at 'em.

I got rid of my last scrap bag by throwing it at a bunch of friends who have dollfies to make stuff for them, but I'm well on my way to another one.  It'd be easier to throw things out, but they might be useful some day! <_<;;;;;;

Oh! OH! YES! Great suggestions and I stuck your name on some stuff :) Thanx

Speaking of Dollfies.... This room would be a good place for them to have a little meet up :)

OMG I would so use this. Just to have someplace to cool off -- Rakushun is comfy, but it does get kinda hot in there. XD

I'd donate something, but I'm not local, so. Oooh! I could toss in some more glue sticks! I know how quickly those get used up. XD I have a bunch I can pack in with the rat when I ship him ahead. ^__^ (@ Charis: let me know for sure whether that spare glue gun is low or high-temp so I can pack the appropriate glue sticks. <3)

Actually I forget if Gorilla tape is actually considered a type of Gaffer's tape or not....Meh. I can pester my aunt for a couple rolls of actual gaffer's tape.

Quote from: BSaphire on January 19, 2011, 09:34:01 AM

BTW @ maikiritori: You were tempted to be my "devil" on the poll huh *giggle* there's no denying that it was hard for you to resist :P but in the end we want the Fanime "Powers that be" to know how we honestly feel/think so it was good you didn't :)

I didn't vote yet!! I was actually going to take this one seriously, but since you've already pinned the Devil on me... ;)

Quote from: Charis on January 19, 2011, 08:57:37 AM
Another thought...and this is more of a silly idea than anything else: I have a small, yet formidable bag of fabric and scraps of fabric that I don't want to throw out, but I don't need for any projects. Perhaps something for either a) fabric swapping or b) just a big fabric grab-bag that people could peruse (and hopefully NOT make a big mess with) could be something to consider as an idea?

Fabric grab bag!!!!!!!! I promise I won't make a mess. ^^

And I can also donate:
Clear nail polish
White and Black thread
Tide Pen(s)-- possibly more than one.
Band aids
Neosporen


That's it for now. This might change, but prolly not.
B, I'll call you later to talk aboot Preda and room. <3

Well, after a cursory cleaning sweep tonight (in lieu of actually being productive and doing stuff like sewing <_< ):
- 1 silver sharpie
- 1 mini hot glue gun (low temp)
- 5 glue sticks
- bobby pins (~50 each, white and blonde)
- hair pins (~50, black)
- snaps (8, silver, size 1)
- a few miscellaneous buttons
- some black electrical tape
- and a small flip-top plastic box it all fits into

Other things I found that can be tossed into the pile:
- several yards of white cotton cording (vaguely estimated; why do I always buy way too much of stuff and then find something better to use for the next project?)
- steam-a-seam (1/2" x 20yd package)
- thimbles (3 of those leather band ones -- discovered I can't use the things)
- mini rubber bands (1 bag of indeterminate count)
- round-nose pliers (not ideal for things like repairing a loose jump ring, but they'll do in a pinch)
- I also found a sewing kit I was given one Christmas -- one of those ones in a bag they sell at Michael's? -- that's never been used and probably never will.  It's got a pair of smaller scissors (3" blade?), some straight and safety pins, needles, buttons, assorted colours of thread and some other random stuff neatly in a case.

... I kinda want to throw together a bag of fabric scraps and other miscellaneous odds and ends (ribbon spools, trim bits, those grommets in the sizes I don't use anymore) and have a crafty swap-fest of sorts.  XD  "Free to good home" or something similar!

AMAZING IDEA! I was discussing this with my friends the other day. I would add more requests, but I have none, they have all been mentioned! I would definately use this room! ^_^

Quote from: Charis on January 20, 2011, 09:38:47 PM
... I kinda want to throw together a bag of fabric scraps and other miscellaneous odds and ends (ribbon spools, trim bits, those grommets in the sizes I don't use anymore) and have a crafty swap-fest of sorts.  XD  "Free to good home" or something similar!

I agree! Something I might suggest if we go this route is to bag them individually with type of fabric and estimated yardage, especially small stuff. Larger pieces (say, several yards worth that can't fit in a gallon Ziploc baggie) we can try to tag in some way (I would volunteer spending some time to help take care of this suggestion, but I need to finalize some plans that are in limbo before I commit to such a venture).

Also, re: donations: I have two file-size black tubs and one smaller tub with a handle so far. I also have some smaller boxes as well, though I am not sure how many right off. And my own bag of fabric, which I have inventoried already and could bag pretty easy for "freebie grabbage" :) I plan to have more things in the works, but I need to review what's in our sewing room first and make sure my husband doesn't have a use for it.

I have updated the Cosplayer to Cosplayer Repair Kit on the first post. I really want to do something concerning Fabric swapping & scraps... so we'll give that some more ponder.

As for ideas for the room:
I have been talking with lots of people and a couple of suggestions have come up.
1. Have the CH where cosplayers are in a "Free from Photos" zone. I can relate to this because when you are cosplaying you can be asked to death for photos and you can't really sit anywhere "safe" from the requests. What do you think?
2. Have a Cosplayer to Cosplayer Q & A where the cosplayers can come and talk to another cosplayer about how they did ______ and/or _____ on their costume or costumes. This would be really good for some topics like wigs, make up techniques, dolfie clothing, mechanical props, armor, working with feathers, making wings, etc. It would be a low key atmosphere where cosplayers can get some 1 on 1 Q & A with another cosplayer who can tell/show them how they did it. What do you guys think?
3. music that is J rock, J pop, anime, game playing quietly in the room. What do you think?

This is an absolutely amazing idea >__<!

I can donate Q-tips, a pack of assorted sized scissors (right handed), Fingernail Polish Remover Wipes, and some Tissue :3

donations can be brought on Day 0 right? cause I'm in SoCal =[

1: Like that idea.
2: Is brilliant too.
3: so kinda anime/japanese themed elevator or lobby music?...Scored a home run.

Quote from: BSaphire on January 22, 2011, 01:41:24 PM
As for ideas for the room:
I have been talking with lots of people and a couple of suggestions have come up.
1. Have the CH where cosplayers are in a "Free from Photos" zone. I can relate to this because when you are cosplaying you can be asked to death for photos and you can't really sit anywhere "safe" from the requests. What do you think?
2. Have a Cosplayer to Cosplayer Q & A where the cosplayers can come and talk to another cosplayer about how they did ______ and/or _____ on their costume or costumes. This would be really good for some topics like wigs, make up techniques, dolfie clothing, mechanical props, armor, working with feathers, making wings, etc. It would be a low key atmosphere where cosplayers can get some 1 on 1 Q & A with another cosplayer who can tell/show them how they did it. What do you guys think?
3. music that is J rock, J pop, anime, game playing quietly in the room. What do you think?

1. SO MUCH YES. Last year I couldn't walk five feet without getting people wanting their picture taken with the "cute mouse". XD
2. I'd really like this! I'm new to cosplaying and would love to pick the brains of those more experienced.
3. Absolutely! ^_____^

Quote from: BSaphire on January 22, 2011, 01:41:24 PMI have updated the Cosplayer to Cosplayer Repair Kit on the first post. I really want to do something concerning Fabric swapping & scraps... so we'll give that some more ponder.

Yay *KermitFlail!*

QuoteAs for ideas for the room:
I have been talking with lots of people and a couple of suggestions have come up.
1. Have the CH where cosplayers are in a "Free from Photos" zone. I can relate to this because when you are cosplaying you can be asked to death for photos and you can't really sit anywhere "safe" from the requests. What do you think?

I like this. Not that I get hounded for photos, but still, a break is a break, or it should be.

2. Have a Cosplayer to Cosplayer Q & A where the cosplayers can come and talk to another cosplayer about how they did ______ and/or _____ on their costume or costumes. This would be really good for some topics like wigs, make up techniques, dolfie clothing, mechanical props, armor, working with feathers, making wings, etc. It would be a low key atmosphere where cosplayers can get some 1 on 1 Q & A with another cosplayer who can tell/show them how they did it. What do you guys think?[/quote]

So are we talking perhaps mini-panels with a particular theme? Could be kind of nifty ;)

Quote3. music that is J rock, J pop, anime, game playing quietly in the room. What do you think?

Spa music. Get the right stuff and it'll be like being in an onsen! Ommmmmmmmmmmmm :)

@ Chaye: Oh thank you! I've added your donation items to the list :) Yes, Day zero drop off will happen, but I need to do some set up as to where and when so I listed it as TBA.

@ Dany: Not really mini panels because Fanime Con has a whole department that is well run for panels of all sizes. Panels are designed to be largely informative in a large group setting and for some people it is hard to ask questions in that set up. Panels are awesome and really help get a subject out to a large group.

I'm thinking smaller and more personal in the setting where you really get to know a fellow cosplayer and would possibly feel more comfortable asking questions to create/solve/ or inspire your own projects. It might be a great place for some testing of panel ideas though*LOL :)

There are some REALLY Talented cosplayers out there! From make-up techniques to wigs, from moving parts to props, specialties like ears, gloves, wings and hats to special sewing techniques or even pattern manipulation, not to mention armor making techniques or working with a particular product like wonderflex or foam. I have seen great YouTube videos and informative documentation on many concepts, but there is nothing like being able to talk with someone about how they did it or how to do it.

I have a friend who cosplay's Sephiroth from Final Fantasy and last year he had the moving black wing. LOTS of people would talk to him about how he did it and stuff, but normally he would be interrupted by people wanting photos.

This would be an opportunity to meet cosplayers like him who have a really good example &/or understanding of a concept where they could sit and talk about what they did, how they did it, what worked or didn't, etc with people who are interested because they need help figuring out their own projects. More along the lines of a 1 on 1 with _____ on _____ subject with out the interruption of "Can I have a photo please?"

I was thinking 2 ~ 1 hour time slots each day, probably afternoon to early evening. Listing the cosplayer w/their cosplay and subject along with the day and hour they would be available for discussion. Then cosplayers could come in and listen, ask questions, maybe get some hands on learning, swap emails so that they can continue to communicate after Fanime Con.

I want to figure out who would be interested in doing a "1 hour Ask the Cosplayer Q&A" and/or what ideas would be good for it.

Mebbe instead of a 1 hr Q and A, we could do something a little less "formal" sounding. Like a 20 questions to ____ cosplayer on _____ subject, to get the ball rolling, and then have a more personalized discussion after the initial 20 Q's as we're introducing the next cosplayer.  

Also, I got something awesome for an on-site suggestion box type thing. If not, we use it as a scraps/thread trash can. ^^

I also have one small basket (for pins/needles/safety pins/whatnot), and one medium-ish (a small shoebox) plastic rubbermaid tote with lid that is perfect for sharpies. I will also be bringing white out.

I know this is kind of random, but I might also be able to bring some blank sheets (16"x24" ish) butcher type paper. Would we need any in the first place? Because I don't want to bring it if we don't need it, but I think there will probably be a used for it. >>

@ B, I my battery died, I didn't hang up on you. I'll call you Thurs afternoon/night sometime. ^^

Quote from: maikiritori on January 27, 2011, 02:20:13 AM
Mebbe instead of a 1 hr Q and A, we could do something a little less "formal" sounding. Like a 20 questions to ____ cosplayer on _____ subject, to get the ball rolling, and then have a more personalized discussion after the initial 20 Q's as we're introducing the next cosplayer.

Yeah! The hour is so that people who are tied up with a gathering or something can come in there sometime with in the hour to ask questions. Definitely an "informal" format and I do like the 20 questions type explanation. This isn't designed to be a panel but a place where a cosplayer can meet another cosplayer to help iron out ideas towards their own cosplay. :)

I'll add your stuff to the list later :) and I don't think we will need the butcher paper at this point... unless someone can think of a logical use for it XD

I just realized that I have this old suitcase of medium size with fairly hard sides that has wheels... that is currently collecting dust in my closet. This would be a great thing for us to use to haul CH stuff around in. So, I'm packing it with the stuff that I am donating to the CH room, and I will be bringing it to con with us. Muahahha! More stuff to Tetris into my car.

Things that are currently in the CG Suitcase:

3 black sharpies
2 liquid white out (I just know someone will need this)
95 yards of clear packing tape
10 yards of duct tape
250 pack of q tips
80 pack of cotton rounds
1 clear nail polish
200 assorted sizes safety pins (3/4", 7/8", and 1 1/2")
55 2" size safety pins
1 pump hair spray
1 aerosol hair spray
1 glue stick (it was already in the suitcase, so I left it)
30 fabric band aids
25 waterproof band aids
1 neosporen
1 small plastic basket
1 medium/small container with lid (perfect size for sharpies and such)
AND, one inventory list.

The dollar store is a wonderful place <3

Also, 20 questions (in my experience) takes FOREVER if there are some good questions. I don't think we'll have to worry about not taking up a whole hour or anything (if that's what y'all were worried about.)

Say, B, I know Charis has steam-a-seam and a glue gun.  As you will be in the Hilton, I assume there will be at least one outlet in the room.  Will you need an extension cord and/or an iron? 

This sounds like the perfect idea! I know many girls who wear platforms/high heels would love a nice place to be able to sit and relax and rest their feet. Plus the repair station there is a very neat idea.

Currently the Cosplayer Hangout looks to be in the Market Room of the Hilton (the room next to the bar) and there will be a water station with some tables & chairs.

There will NOT be any outside food or drink allowed, HOWEVER, if you order food from the bar or restaurant it will be allowed, otherwise it is just the water station food &/or drink wise that can be allowed. Tea parties will have to use CPMS, or PM me cause I do have another idea.

I will post more once we get the official announcement done.

Still looking for feedback & ideas on the "fabric" possibilities. (Pondered the thought of doing a Hetalia type quilt with blocks of color from each country and the county's name over the top of the four color blocks?)

What is everyone else thinking???
Squidges
B

When you talk about this you're meaning a full fledged room ehhhhhhh??!!??
I'm totally up for that and you know why!!!~~~!~~<3

I totally love this idea: I feel silly having to "adjust" my costume in public, so a place where it was okay to powder my nose without judgment would be really nice.

Quote from: ThunderMuffn on February 14, 2011, 11:30:23 PM
I totally love this idea: I feel silly having to "adjust" my costume in public, so a place where it was okay to powder my nose without judgment would be really nice.

*LOL I do know what you mean there! XD

Though we can't allow any outside food into the room (Which we will still use the CPMS for those special gatherings :) ) I am so happy that we will have this location to use during the day. If peeps want to picnic in the little tree area out side down the stairs then we can plug in a hot water kettle to help make a few cups of hot tea (by tea bags of course) but at least we can assist to make those special events a little bit better :)

What I am wondering is... are there any cosplayers who would like to do a 20 questions session with other cosplayers? What subject would you like to take those questions on? Remember this isn't a panel... it is a time where cosplayers can come ask questions of other cosplayers. Ideas that I have heard talked about are:
makeup techniques
wig styling
ears
wings
armor making
working with special products like wonderflex, foam, laytex
incorporating mechanical aspects into your cosplay
what would work best for this____ ?

Anyone interested in talking about how they do ____ and the neat tricks & tips they have picked up along the way? Just post here your ideas and I'll make a list on the first post of who and what they would talk about. Also what would everyone consider a convenient time to do this each day?

Love this idea! I'm amazed it hadn't been thought of years ago xD

Personally something I'd love for it to have would be like a temporary prop check-in since sticking my 6 foot scythe in the back corner of the bathroom tends to be a bit of a hassal considering how small they are space wise. Mostly just a place so that the cosplayers that have big weapons can just drop them off for a couple of minutes without worry of anyone accidently damaging them in the bathrooms since they tend to have a lot of people going in and out of them.

Quote from: Wolftale on February 17, 2011, 07:36:35 PM
Love this idea! I'm amazed it hadn't been thought of years ago xD

Personally something I'd love for it to have would be like a temporary prop check-in since sticking my 6 foot scythe in the back corner of the bathroom tends to be a bit of a hassle considering how small they are space wise. Mostly just a place so that the cosplayers that have big weapons can just drop them off for a couple of minutes without worry of anyone accidentally damaging them in the bathrooms since they tend to have a lot of people going in and out of them.

I did think of it years ago *LOL but I haven't been able to put it into play until now :) It is one of those things that would take a cosplayer to see the need for it.

Right now our primary concern is being responsible for other peoples property. I do know that if anything is left in the room when it closes that it will be checked in to ConOps. If it is very valuable (cell phone, IPod, camera, etc) It will be taken up to ConOps immediately. So if any one looses anything during con, the first place to check after your initial search is CON OPS!
With that said, we will discuss what we can do, so peeps can use the restroom and not fear damage to their props :) Good Idea, we'll see what we can do with it!

@ all the cosplayers:
Still a few items we could use in the C2C RK & Looking for peeps interested in a 20 Question/Discussion session. See 1st post for more info on the C2C 20Q/D.

Keep the ideas rolling! Love to hear from you!
B

Oh my goodness!  I was in such desperate need of something like this last year!  My stockings ripped pretty badly and my shoes were absolutely killing me!  I wished so badly that there was a place I could have gone to fix my blisters and stockings, because walking all the way to Walgreens with burning feet suuuuucked.  I might be able to donate some items, but let me get back to you on that later :3.

Random question, if it was a cosplayer-exclusive room, would I be able to bring my friend, who is not a cosplayer?

Quote from: Pengin-san on February 28, 2011, 06:00:47 AM
Oh my goodness!  I was in such desperate need of something like this last year!  My stockings ripped pretty badly and my shoes were absolutely killing me!  I wished so badly that there was a place I could have gone to fix my blisters and stockings, because walking all the way to Walgreens with burning feet suuuuucked.  I might be able to donate some items, but let me get back to you on that later :3.

Random question, if it was a cosplayer-exclusive room, would I be able to bring my friend, who is not a cosplayer?

Though it is designed with the cosplayer in mind, YES you can bring your friend as long as they have their Fanime Con 2011 badge. You don't have to be in cosplay at the time to use the room.

I have been there with the sore feet and walking :) except for me it was 9 blocks to and from the con center in Seattle WA in heels after the masq ball and the dance :P I walked it bare foot on cold, wet, wonderful pavement cause my feet were KILLING me *LOL. The reason clear finger nail polish is on the list is because it is great to stop runs in nylons  ;D

Quote from: BSaphire on March 01, 2011, 07:24:03 AM
The reason clear finger nail polish is on the list is because it is great to stop runs in nylons  ;D

I had no idea that could stop runs O__O definitely going to remember that in the future, THANK YOU~!

I got a whole case of different assorted makeups, brushes, sponges, etc for those who need a quick touch up. A lot of them unused and clean. If there are any makeup newbies, I'll try to help out with some tips. Plus, I'll bring some detangler spray and spare some Styrofoam wig heads for those who want to take off their wig for a while and have a place to hang them.

Quote from: Touya no Miko on March 02, 2011, 03:16:51 PM
I got a whole case of different assorted makeups, brushes, sponges, etc for those who need a quick touch up. A lot of them unused and clean. If there are any makeup newbies, I'll try to help out with some tips. Plus, I'll bring some detangler spray and spare some Styrofoam wig heads for those who want to take off their wig for a while and have a place to hang them.

The makeup thing might be a bad idea if it isn't done properly. Germs and infections can spread easily with shared makeup items. However, I work at a department store where we have a beauty department with tester makeup, and there are ways to make it cleaner, but it would require everyone using individual cotton balls/swabs instead of brushes and sponges (and no putting a contaminated swab back into makeup). I don't know how much Fanime staff would want to be responsible for something like that. Not that it's a bad idea overall, but it'd take some work (and the assumption that everyone knows how to be clean) to make it safe for everyone.

Quote from: MeowDesu on March 02, 2011, 04:00:42 PM

Quote from: Touya no Miko on March 02, 2011, 03:16:51 PM
I got a whole case of different assorted makeups, brushes, sponges, etc for those who need a quick touch up. A lot of them unused and clean. If there are any makeup newbies, I'll try to help out with some tips. Plus, I'll bring some detangler spray and spare some Styrofoam wig heads for those who want to take off their wig for a while and have a place to hang them.

The makeup thing might be a bad idea if it isn't done properly. Germs and infections can spread easily with shared makeup items. However, I work at a department store where we have a beauty department with tester makeup, and there are ways to make it cleaner, but it would require everyone using individual cotton balls/swabs instead of brushes and sponges (and no putting a contaminated swab back into makeup). I don't know how much Fanime staff would want to be responsible for something like that. Not that it's a bad idea overall, but it'd take some work (and the assumption that everyone knows how to be clean) to make it safe for everyone.

Yeah, I thought about that too. My older sister works as a bridal makeup artist and beauty department employee. I was thinking about bringing disposable eye sponge applicators, powder puffs, and sponges so they can be disposed of after use. In addition, have some sanitizing solution and a note nearby to remind everyone to keep it clean. Eye makeup transfers bacteria too easily, so those will be left out. Would some unused stage setting powder be all right? I have some Ben Nye loose setting powder that comes in a shaker bottle, which is more hygienic than a compact case. We can restrict it to just powder touch ups if everything else is too much. But I'll be nearby if anyone needs help with anything else, so long as they bring their own makeup.

I would love to use this. So much happens at Fanime sometimes our cosplays need a little TLC. <3
And a little suggest: perhaps a little eyelash glue and tweezers could be set out? Just to adjust those stubborn falsies! ^^

Spring cleaning is so awesome. I found a hot glue gun and some glue in clear and various glittery colors. Since a glue gun and glue has already been vouched for, I'm just going to add my glue to the pile. If anyone wants to take the glittery colored glue, please help yourself. I can't see a use for them in near future.

So the room has been changed and I want to make sure everyone is aware of it. It is now the Winchester Room ~ 1st Floor of the Hilton Hotel.

I'm still looking for cosplayers who are willing to talk and answer questions from other cosplayers on how they do/work/make different things. If your interested please post.
Thanks
B

I would love if we had this! I cant really think of suggestions everyone already covered what I thought of but I would definitely use this room to the max if we had it.

Husband and I have extended our time to be at con..I think the plan is to check in early Friday morning and to be attending con Friday and a good chunk of Saturday, and I -might- be able to come in Sunday on my own (no promises yet, unfortunately!).

I still have containers to donate..if Thursday there is anyone to take them, that would be a great thing as I'll be in the area for work and can just drive over and drop them off, versus piling it in with our other stuff :)

As for "how we did this" stuff...let me talk to Husband...the plan is for us to try to do the Matsumoto meetup and for him to wear Harlock on Friday, so he -might- be convinced to talk about how he made our weaponry, because he did and both Harlock and Emeraldas' gravity sabers and guns, plus an extra gun we used in our Masquerade entry.  I might have something for the "how to use Wonderflex" department for Tochiro's hat.

EDIT: I wonder if I have enough progress photos to put together something about my Robin Sena wig that I finished for ALA...*headscritch*

Quote from: Dany on April 20, 2011, 07:40:05 AM
Husband and I have extended our time to be at con..I think the plan is to check in early Friday morning and to be attending con Friday and a good chunk of Saturday, and I -might- be able to come in Sunday on my own (no promises yet, unfortunately!).

I still have containers to donate..if Thursday there is anyone to take them, that would be a great thing as I'll be in the area for work and can just drive over and drop them off, versus piling it in with our other stuff :)

As for "how we did this" stuff...let me talk to Husband...the plan is for us to try to do the Matsumoto meetup and for him to wear Harlock, so he -might- be convinced to talk about how he made our weaponry.

Oh my gosh! Dany tell hubby it would be sooo wonderful if the two of you could help out with a Q&A session on weaponry (amongst the many topics you two could cover :P ) and I sure do hope you both can! Maikiritori and I will be around on Thursday late afternoon/early evening. We have our department staff meeting & training that day. PM me later and let me know when you might drop it off and I'll see about picking it up from you. I know what it's like to have that "extra" stuff taking up space from important con and cosplay stuff *LOL
Thanks
B

Quote from: BSaphire on April 20, 2011, 07:47:00 AM
Oh my gosh! Dany tell hubby it would be sooo wonderful if the two of you could help out with a Q&A session on weaponry (amongst the many topics you two could cover :P ) and I sure do hope you both can!

If we know when it is (and ideally if it's on Friday), that will make it a little easier on him. I will definitely ask :)

I'll PM an ETA as it gets closer to con..at this point, the best time would be Thursday lunch, but if I get a full weekend badge (versus a day badge) I may come after work to pick it up when I retrieve that.

This sounds like an AWESOME idea. <3

OK. Darieum has been asked, and he is interested in the weapons meetup as long as it doesn't cross streams with the Matsumoto gathering.  I'm still waiting on when that will be exactly, but I know it's scheduled presently for Friday sometime.

I want to know would stitching fall under other? Because I know how to do stitching now and I could teach other.

Quote from: BSaphire on April 19, 2011, 09:32:00 AM
So the room has been changed and I want to make sure everyone is aware of it. It is now the Winchester Room ~ 1st Floor of the Hilton Hotel.

I'm still looking for cosplayers who are willing to talk and answer questions from other cosplayers on how they do/work/make different things. If your interested please post.
Thanks
B

Ello
I might be able to talk about working electronics into outfits. Ive made a few cosplays and this time one of my props lights up and im good with making stuff. So i could host something like how to add lights into your cosplay/props.  I can get VERY tentacle to even programing lights to flame from time to time and that kinda things or how to cheaply wire things. My only drawback is that i have used all household items (broke up lights to get the leds and used Internet wire to give power.  If i am going to do this i can try and get a slideshow together and try and find some places to get leds cheap(which will be the hard part XD) (also if anyone wants to do this with me Help is LOVED!!! lol)
I can also tell people how to plan out a prop to get it easy and cheap or good and expensive :3


-edit-
I think it would fall under
Incorporating mechanical aspects into your cosplay:
Lights in Cosplay and Props.  (how to plan out a prop and make it cheaper)
I can also answer some question on how to add mechanical stuff to cosplay i might not have done it yet but i have made myself a few robots for college and they moved XD.

As for time i think saturday 4-7 any time and sunday almsot anytime (no gatherings im in on sunday or monday XD) just dont want to miss the gaia panel and few others i know of.

I'm not sure if I'm going to have much free time anymore after my cosplay group posted everyone's gatherings they're attending, I'm taking pictures for most of them so I don't think I'll be able to do the Steam Punk Q&A :(

Just a quick question: What will be what days? Has a schedule been hammered out?

What all we might be able to contribute to right now:

Wig Styling - Robin Sena (Witch Hunter Robin wig)

Armor Making: It would be non-anime related, but I could probably bring a couple of pieces of my Dawn armor (as in Joe Linsner's Dawn)

Working with special products like wonderflex, foam, laytex:  The armor mentioned above has Wonderflex and MagicSculpt, and Darieum used Wonderflex to work out some of the guard parts of our gravity sabers for Harlock and Emeraldas.  Could also add MagicSculpt as a "special product" (2 part expoxy)

Incorporating mechanical aspects into your cosplay: We MIGHT have a contribution to this on Saturday, but call this a tentative because a) it's being finished and b) it's D's baby, so he would be the only one who could speak to it, so Saturday would be the only day we could bring it.

What would work best for this____ ?:  Depending on when it is.

Ah, the time is creeping up!!!

OK, so I want to set up who is doing what Q & A. Now that gatherings & events are done with submissions & the Cosplay Spectacular stuff is lined up for everyone people should have a better idea of when they are available. So, I need to know when you are available to do your Q & A idea. I want to nail this out this weekend and then have it up on the "Official Gatherings & Events" list. Copy below and fill in the blanks for each Q & A session you want to do. Here are the times of availability in the room (Choose a time that works best for you:)

Friday:
10 - 11 AM:
11 - 12 PM:
12 - 1 PM:
1 - 2 PM:
2 - 3 PM:
3 - 4 PM:
4 - 5 PM:
5 - 6 PM:

Saturday:
10 - 11 AM:
11 - 12 PM:
12 - 1 PM:
1-2:30 PM is unavailable
2:30 - 3:30 PM:
3:30 - 4:30 PM: 
4:30 PM: Cosplayer Gatherings Raffle

Sunday:
10 - 11 AM:
11 - 12 PM:
12 -1 PM:
1 - 2 PM:
2 - 3 PM:
3 - 4 PM:
4:30 Cosplayer Gatherings Raffle

Format for post is:

1st Q & A Session:
Day:
Time:
Topic (s)
Forum Name:
If you are bringing a specific Prop, Cosplay, accessory, etc to show with your Q & A please list what it is and/or who and what they are from:

Will you allow photography during your Q & A?

Anything else?

2nd Q & A Session:
Day:
Time:
Topic (s)
Forum Name:
If you are bringing a specific Prop, Cosplay, accessory, etc to show with your Q & A please list what it is and/or who and what they are from:

Will you allow photography during your Q & A?

Anything else?


If you would like to do more than two just continue on with a 3rd etc. just make sure to include the info for each session.

Once we have a list going I will update the first post.

Other business: If you are bringing in a donation for the Cosplayer 2 Cosplayer Repair station on Thursday you may drop it off at Con Ops and make sure you have it in a bag/box/etc. with "Cosplayer Gatherings on it so when Maikiritori and I come Thursday afternoon we can get it and then take it over to the room.
If you are dropping off on Friday or Saturday then you can come by the Winchester Room in the Hilton Hotel (1st floor) and leave it there.

Thank you Cosplay Peeps for helping make our little peace of heaven the perfect place for us! I hope this runs well this year because I want to do more with it next year!
Squidges
B

1st Q & A Session: Learning How to Whip Stitch and Cross Stitch
Day: Friday May 27th
Time: 10am, 2pm, and 5pm
Topic (s): Whip Stitch and Cross Stitching for costume making and repair.
Forum Name: AnimefanJJ, prefer being called JJ
If you are bringing a specific Prop, Cosplay, accessory, etc to show with your Q & A please list what it is and/or who and what they are from: Assorted sewing needles, thread, scarp fabric, scissors, and wooden sewing case.

Will you allow photography during your Q & A? Yes.

Anything else? I am willing to repair rips on costumes.

2nd Q & A Session: Alterations by hand
Day: Saturday May 28th
Time: 11pm, 12pm, and 3:30pm
Topic (s): Altering costumes by hand
Forum Name: AnimefanJJ, prefer to be called JJ
If you are bringing a specific Prop, Cosplay, accessory, etc to show with your Q & A please list what it is and/or who and what they are from: Tailor Chalk, Tailor measuring tap, assorted sewing needles, thread, scissors, and wooden sewing case.

Will you allow photography during your Q & A? Yes

3rd Q & A Session: Learning How to Back Stitch
Day: Sunday May 29th
Time:11am, 1pm, and 3pm
Topic (s): Back Stitching to make seams
Forum Name: AnimefanJJ, prefer to be called JJ
If you are bringing a specific Prop, Cosplay, accessory, etc to show with your Q & A please list what it is and/or who and what they are from: assorted sewing needles, thread, scissors, scrap faberic, and wooden sewing case.

Will you allow photography during your Q & A? Yes

Anything else? No

edited out to show update

1st Q & A Session:

Day: Friday
Time: 3-4 (going to confirm this is OK, should know tonight for sure.)
Topic (s): Weapons of Captain Harlock
Forum Name: Dany (on behalf of my husband, Darieum, who is not on the forum)
If you are bringing a specific Prop, Cosplay, accessory, etc to show with your Q & A please list what it is and/or who and what they are from: Matsumoto Weapons: Captain Harlock's Gravity Saber (based on Harlock SSX) and Cosmo Dragoons. May also have Emeraldas gravity saber as well

Will you allow photography during your Q & A? Yes

Anything else? Only that we'll be leaving right at 4, or sooner if there's not a lot of turnout, as I'm running the Matsumoto meetup and want to get in the area and checked in :)


2nd Q & A Session:
Day: Sunday
Time: 2-3 PM
Topic (s): Wig Styling
Forum Name: Dany
If you are bringing a specific Prop, Cosplay, accessory, etc to show with your Q & A please list what it is and/or who and what they are from:  Robin Sena (Witch Hunter Robin) wig and progress photos.

Will you allow photography during your Q & A? Yes

Anything else? Nope!

I really want to do a Menchics in cosplay with lights and other things it just that do tot he offishal panel and gathering list isnt done yet its harder to plan out free time.



1st Q & A Session:
Day: SaturdayTime: 10-11am
Topic (s) Incorporating mechanical aspects into your cosplay/props:
Forum Name:Zeroelement
If you are bringing a specific Prop, Cosplay, accessory, etc to show with your Q & A please list what it is and/or who and what they are from:
Im bringing my only prop with lights in it which is a simple candle prop for Nekozawa from Hostclub.

Will you allow photography during your Q & A? Yes

(will there be a projector or anything for me to plug a laptop into or something i wanted to show people who easy it is in ad in lights. )
(accpeting other people who wish to talk about it also. )

If this is accepted please tell me. I plan to start a power point but idk if ill have a projector or how this really supposed to work. I willl bring in my props easy but power point might be easier. And which day you would prefer for it to be on

First I would like to thank everyone who has agreed to do a Q & A. There are still some time slots available so please feel free to copy the posting format and post what you would like to do. I have added more times to accommodate more possibilities! :D

@ JJ: I listed most of the ones you requested. I might shorten it to two a day and you can change up your topic on any given day if you want just let me know.

@ Dany: I have listed both of the sessions, but I'm sad I won't make you Wig one cause I am running the Jump gathering then :(

@ Zeroelement: JJ has requested the 10 - 11 am slot. Can you choose another time that you can do it?

I will close this out Wednesday evening and have it listed at the gatherings table and at the cosplayer hangout.

Quote from: BSaphire on May 23, 2011, 11:41:02 PM
@ Dany: I have listed both of the sessions, but I'm sad I won't make you Wig one cause I am running the Jump gathering then :(

Aw rats! :( If it helps, I'll be wearing Robin on Sunday, so I might just have to find you after and give you the dirt-quick rundown.

Quote from: Dany on May 24, 2011, 08:32:27 AM

Quote from: BSaphire on May 23, 2011, 11:41:02 PM
@ Dany: I have listed both of the sessions, but I'm sad I won't make you Wig one cause I am running the Jump gathering then :(

Aw rats! :( If it helps, I'll be wearing Robin on Sunday, so I might just have to find you after and give you the dirt-quick rundown.

Hey do you need wigs to style or just showing the basics? (has a nekozawa wig that well wont get styled for a very long time XD)

Quote from: BSaphire on May 23, 2011, 11:41:02 PM
First I would like to thank everyone who has agreed to do a Q & A. There are still some time slots available so please feel free to copy the posting format and post what you would like to do. I have added more times to accommodate more possibilities! :D



@ Zeroelement: JJ has requested the 10 - 11 am slot. Can you choose another time that you can do it?

I will close this out Wednesday evening and have it listed at the gatherings table and at the cosplayer hangout.

Deleted the conflicting time

Quote from: zeroelement on May 24, 2011, 02:35:31 PM
Hey do you need wigs to style or just showing the basics? (has a nekozawa wig that well wont get styled for a very long time XD)

More or less I'm just bringing the Robin wig itself (on my head since I'm already wearing the costume, though I could take it off if needed) and the progress photos so people can see how the pigtail thing went from start to finish. Pretty simple :)

Quote from: Dany on May 24, 2011, 03:26:57 PM

Quote from: zeroelement on May 24, 2011, 02:35:31 PM
Hey do you need wigs to style or just showing the basics? (has a nekozawa wig that well wont get styled for a very long time XD)

More or less I'm just bringing the Robin wig itself (on my head since I'm already wearing the costume, though I could take it off if needed) and the progress photos so people can see how the pigtail thing went from start to finish. Pretty simple :)

so there is a projector?

Quote from: BSaphire on May 23, 2011, 11:41:02 PM
First I would like to thank everyone who has agreed to do a Q & A. There are still some time slots available so please feel free to copy the posting format and post what you would like to do. I have added more times to accommodate more possibilities! :D

@ JJ: I listed most of the ones you requested. I might shorten it to two a day and you can change up your topic on any given day if you want just let me know.

That is ok with me.

@jj do you think there is a projector?

Quote from: zeroelement on May 24, 2011, 05:31:57 PM
so there is a projector?

I really doubt it, and I am not really planning for it. I'm actually treating these less as panels and more as informal how-to sessions with some printed visual stuff, since I am not assuming that the attendance will be big. If there are a lot of people I can work around that, but at this point I am not expecting it.

Quote from: Dany on May 25, 2011, 08:10:07 AM

Quote from: zeroelement on May 24, 2011, 05:31:57 PM
so there is a projector?

I really doubt it, and I am not really planning for it. I'm actually treating these less as panels and more as informal how-to sessions with some printed visual stuff, since I am not assuming that the attendance will be big. If there are a lot of people I can work around that, but at this point I am not expecting it.

same i was just thinking of showing how battiers work and were to find stuff to make it cheaper and how to do it safely and show my prop but i made a pp just in case just wanted to know if i should bring my laptop XD

Sorry I'm so late on my replies, but between work, life and replies the best answer I can give you on projector is I'm unsure. I do know that my tech guy will be in there and will have his lap top. I can ask him to make sure he has Power Point installed and he can use the second monitor to show the audience.
For this year I wanted to get as much as I could in the room on our budget. I did schedule changes to the first post and I can add stuff at con. Finishing up the board for the hangout tonight so the info will have a board for itself :)

Love and peace 1st post updated! See everyone @ Con!
Squidges
B

Quote from: zeroelement on May 24, 2011, 11:21:52 PM
@jj do you think there is a projector?

Not to my knowledge

Do to the fact sceduals are not being handed out this year. I can bring in one for everyone to use if they respect it and don't steal it
(also there is a app on the driod market for free but it just list when stuff starts no how long or were i think

I just wanted to thank everyone who was apart of this because this place was really great. Being able to sit and interact with other cosplayers and getting help fixing my costume was wonderful.  Thanks again! :)

The place was great, I agree! And nearly every time I went there, it was full of people utilizing the room. I think Friday was the only day it appeared really quiet, but that was because people were still showing up.

I'm hoping that we do a little more promotion of the Q&A/MiniPanel stuff for next year..maybe we were the "uninteresting ones" *LOL* but no one came for the Robin wig panel and only folks I told in the Matsumoto gathering thread came for the Matsumoto weapons Q&A.  Not sure if anyone else had that issue, but I thought I'd bring it up. It was really the ONLY issue I had. The room was a good size, there was space for everything...in fact, if you can nab that room for the same purpose again next year? I'll be REALLY happy :D

Hopefully the box-stuff came in handy, especially near the end there! I didn't get to bring them Thursday because my time in reg was really late, so I brought them down on Sunday morning instead.

I'm really glad this existed. Some costume malfunctions happened so it was really great to have supplies out. Thanks to those who donated!

I just want to thank EVERYONE, and I don't even know who all of you are, THANK YOU! For being under published and mostly spread by word of mouth, the Cosplayer Hangout was just the thing we needed! I really appreciate all the donations that came.

We are looking at things we can do to make it even better. Many of you have already talked with some of the CGD staff and offered suggestions and I want to hear more of them. This is our little piece of paradise and boy did we need it :) so please post your suggestions and even constructive criticism and let us see about making more things happen in there next year!

Here is a bit of what I want to change for 2012 in the CH:
~ Open more hours - aka we don't have to break down and we operate longer each day
~ Fabric Swap on one night
~ "Iron Cosplay" on one day
~ C2C Q&A in the early evenings
~ a few board games that even our young "Chibi" friends can play
~ bottled water donations for those who need to take water on the run
~ a "Cooling" station for our armor/furry/covered friends
~ restock & revamp our list of supplies
~ More tools for repairs
~ Have some video/projection capability for C2C Q&A

That's just the short list, but if everyone posts ideas we have a few months to shape our piece of paradise into an even better place to retreat & relax at.

Again Thank you THank You THANK YOU for all the donations that came into the room over the course of the weekend. I am sure that everything was used by someone at some point.

Love to the COSPLAYERS!
Squidges
B

Cosplayer Hangout was superfantasticallyawesome!

Cosplayer Hangout was the best thing since sliced bread.. at least to me it was.  ;D I just wish more of the staff knew about it and I expressed this Saturday when I spent a few minutes in there hydrating. On Friday I had an armor malfunction and really needed a hot glue gun. I asked the info desk where the hangout was located (left our Fanime booklets in the hotel room) and they had no clue there was anything like that. Luckily I brought a hot glue gun with me but I still had to walk back to the Fairmont. I know it's hard to communicate to all areas of Fanime, but I was expecting at least the information desk would know. It also didn't come to mind to have asked the cosplay gatherings group or rovers so maybe that's my fault there.

Quote from: Inai on June 01, 2011, 07:53:34 AM
Cosplayer Hangout was the best thing since sliced bread.. at least to me it was.  ;D I just wish more of the staff knew about it and I expressed this Saturday when I spent a few minutes in there hydrating. On Friday I had an armor malfunction and really needed a hot glue gun. I asked the info desk where the hangout was located (left our Fanime booklets in the hotel room) and they had no clue there was anything like that. Luckily I brought a hot glue gun with me but I still had to walk back to the Fairmont. I know it's hard to communicate to all areas of Fanime, but I was expecting at least the information desk would know. It also didn't come to mind to have asked the cosplay gatherings group or rovers so maybe that's my fault there.

Thank you! At one point the Hilton Hotel Reg staff were directing cosplayers over to us when they were approached for a needle &/or thread! Hats off to the Hilton! :)
I agree and we are going to put two things on the Info department's list: The key for gathering locations & HOW TO FIND THE HANGOUT! :P
Do you have any suggestions for what you would like in the room? Please note that I will not allow sewing machines in there, however I do want to pick up a hand sewer or two. No sewing machines because con isn't where you finish your cosplay but where you wear it and I want everyone to come out of their hotel rooms and do stuff during con :)

Quote from: BSaphire on June 02, 2011, 07:29:10 AM

Quote from: Inai on June 01, 2011, 07:53:34 AM
Cosplayer Hangout was the best thing since sliced bread.. at least to me it was.  ;D I just wish more of the staff knew about it and I expressed this Saturday when I spent a few minutes in there hydrating. On Friday I had an armor malfunction and really needed a hot glue gun. I asked the info desk where the hangout was located (left our Fanime booklets in the hotel room) and they had no clue there was anything like that. Luckily I brought a hot glue gun with me but I still had to walk back to the Fairmont. I know it's hard to communicate to all areas of Fanime, but I was expecting at least the information desk would know. It also didn't come to mind to have asked the cosplay gatherings group or rovers so maybe that's my fault there.

Thank you! At one point the Hilton Hotel Reg staff were directing cosplayers over to us when they were approached for a needle &/or thread! Hats off to the Hilton! :)
I agree and we are going to put two things on the Info department's list: The key for gathering locations & HOW TO FIND THE HANGOUT! :P
Do you have any suggestions for what you would like in the room? Please note that I will not allow sewing machines in there, however I do want to pick up a hand sewer or two. No sewing machines because con isn't where you finish your cosplay but where you wear it and I want everyone to come out of their hotel rooms and do stuff during con :)

Fans would have been nice, like two small ones to cool off in front of. Maybe some hem tape next year for quick fixes in addition to a hand sewing kit. There are some fabrics that are super thick or difficult to hand sew through so the hem tape would be useful and less obvious than hot glue. Not that heat n bond stuff, it has never worked out well for me. :( If there were safety pins, I didn't see any so those would be useful and maybe some notions like hook and eyes and velcro.
The room was great, I am actually thinking of donating a ton of stuff next year since I'm a total hoarder with all my sewing supplies.

Quote from: BSaphire on June 02, 2011, 07:29:10 AM
Do you have any suggestions for what you would like in the room? Please note that I will not allow sewing machines in there, however I do want to pick up a hand sewer or two. No sewing machines because con isn't where you finish your cosplay but where you wear it and I want everyone to come out of their hotel rooms and do stuff during con :)

Are you thinking of the little handheld battery powered machine things? Those would be very handy for a repair that may be quicker in an automated fasion.

And while con isn't where you finish your cosplay..you know that's what happens XD That being said..and you made me think of it again now...the idea of perhaps a "finishing circle" where people can get together for a little while and do simple last-minute work on what they need to. This would be for those last minute things like attaching fasteners, miscellaneous hand-finishings, wig styling, that sort of thing, but doing it with others rather than being cooped up away from the con.

It's a thought, but there it is :)

I only wound up ducking into the room twice -- once to drop things off, and once on Saturday with a friend to get some water -- but it was marvelous to have.  Have to facepalm, though; one of the roomies was trying to fix her mask, and I didn't think to direct her there for a hot glue gun, when I'd dropped one off the day before.  (Didn't even remember until I saw it out when we went by the next day.  My brain was apparently on vacation all con!)

It would've been nice if the info booths had known what I was asking about; it took them five minutes to unearth a programme and turn up the location for me. ;_;  But overall, the room was a fabulous idea and I'm sure it'll be even better next year once the inevitable Year One kinks are worked out.

And oooh, fabric swap. ^_____^

I loved this room eventhough I only utilized it once.  But I recall it being said that no photography would occur in the room, so I felt very comfortable ducking in the room for a drink of water in a costume I have to position myself in rather amusing ways in order to drink successfully while minimizing any potential for spillage on my hand-dyed silk.  It was also nice to know that the room did exist in case of any malfunctions or just as a place to collapse for a few minutes without having to worry about getting stepped on, getting snagged or getting dirty.  I definitely hope this room is back next year (and also that I remember more than once for a quick break into calm out of the awesome storm that is con XD)

I found out not a lot of q&a panels didn't do so well, I think it is because of the fact they were barely mention in the Fanime con booklet. I think we should get the word out better about this place and the panels that will help many cosplayers. I will be back next year though to teach the stitching by hand and alterations by hand again, since I didn't get a chance to do so this year. 

I'm going to be donating another few items!

Tide Pen
Lint Roller
Box of Tissues



BIG MAYBE : A stool/bean bag

Just a heads up on the Cosplayer Hangout... YES it will be back in 2012 with more hours, more programming, and more to offer! I will either revamp this thread or start a new one around September due to the pressing matters of my life currently.

We will be in need of donations for the room, for C2C repair station, and looking for C2C Q&A sessions for 2012. Specific events for the Hangout include: C2C Fabric Swap, Zombie Gathering and Event night, Traditional Iron Cosplay contest (get your 6 person teams together now,) a Chocobo Corner for our chibi cosplayers to relax in, and new C2C Q&A sessions with a Armor Making one in particular.

Still looking for your ideas cosplayers so feel free to post them. If you can donate either water or water cups then post that too. The bottled water is for the cosplayer that is leaving the room to take with them. The cups are for in the room.

There will be more to come as the year finishes out, but for now know that the room will most likely be relocated also. We are planning on keeping the room on the first floor of the Hilton Hotel so don't fret, but we wanted to do a whole lot more so moving may be necessary.

LOVE 2 the COSPEEPS!
BSaphire

Personally, I loved the Hangout... Which I think was super obvious seeing as I spent most of my spare time in there laying on the floor.  :P

For next year, I'd definitely say fans wound be a good idea, either oscillating floor fans or those little battery operated hand held ones so cold air could be maneuvered into hot armor easier.

Also, I don't recall having a floor length mirror, but that seems like it would still be a great idea.

I didn't see it on the list, but would a small hair dryer be good? To be used to help paint or glue or the clear nail polish or something dry faster?

I can also bring things like bandaids, q-tips, and cotton rounds.