Meet Svetlana and Benni, the cosplay powerhouse behind Kamui Cosplay, hailing from the creative heartland of Portugal. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, they have left an indelible mark on the global cosplay landscape. For more than 21 years, Svetlana and Benni have honed their craft, pushing the boundaries of creativity with each meticulously crafted costume. Renowned for their unparalleled expertise, they have authored 17 tutorial books and crafted over 150 intricate costume patterns, serving as beacons of inspiration for aspiring cosplayers around the globe. In 2013, they transformed their beloved hobby into a thriving business, embarking on a journey that has seen them captivate audiences in over 30 countries and through a large online presence of over 1 million followers. From gracing events as esteemed guests to judging costume competitions and sharing their wealth of knowledge through captivating panels, Svetlana and Benni have solidified their status as icons of the cosplay world. Their boundless passion for cosplay transcends geographical boundaries, inspiring and empowering countless enthusiasts through their innovative creations and engaging media interviews. Join Svetlana and Benni as they redefine the art of cosplay, one extraordinary creation at a time.
Keynote Presentation: From Imagination to Reality
The Art of Cosplay with Svetlana and Benni of Kamui Cosplay: Embark on a journey into the vibrant world of cosplay with keynote speakers Svetlana and Benni from Kamui Cosplay as they unravel the intricacies of transforming imagination into reality. Svetlana and Benni demystify the initial steps of the costume project process, addressing a common struggle of novices and seasoned cosplayers: how to get started and not get lost during the first phase of planning a new project. Drawing from personal experiences of character selection, they offer invaluable insights on identifying the ideal persona, navigating the vast sea of references, and ultimately choosing a character for your next project. With an inspiring blend of encouragement and guidance, our speakers embolden students to confront their fears, conquer procrastination, tackle new techniques, and summon the courage to embark on ambitious projects.
Annye Driscoll, also known by their alias Maker Fishmeal, believes that cosplay is a source of joy, a powerful outlet for creativity, and, above all, something that anyone can enjoy. Their approach to cosplay revolves around constant learning, which they share through detailed guides and engaging workshops. Annye sees every aspect of creating costumes as a chance to discover and share both truth and delight. Maker Fishmeal is a foamsmith, sewist, and propmaker, known for their keen eye for hidden details and impeccable craftsmanship. They have a talent for connecting with people and bring an infectious energy to every event they attend. Their list of accolades includes winning second place in the Riot Games Summer Finals Contest in 2022, third place in 2021, and being a finalist in 2020. They have also served as a guest, judge, and panelist at A-Kon 2022 and have participated in various other conventions and events since 2017. Annye's work has been featured in major publications like Entertainment Weekly and Marvel Becoming. They have earned several Best in Show awards, including at Indy Pop Con and Cleveland ConCoction in 2019 and at Origins Game Fair in 2018. In 2024, their expertise in adhesives finally manifested in their book, The Ultimate Glue Guide, published by FanPowered Press. Annye resides in Ohio with their husband, cats, horse, and a delightful school of fancy guppies.
The Art of Foamsmithing: Using Rotary Tools and Wood Burners
If you're working on EVA foam projects and need to tidy up seams, add battle damage, or create unique textures, then rotary tools and wood burners can be your best allies. In this workshop, we'll start with the basics: which tools to choose, safety precautions, and essential beginner techniques. Then, Annye will kick things up a notch as they demonstrate how to create textures like bone, hammered metal, and scale. You'll see these techniques in action and get the tips you need to take your cosplay projects to the next level!
Chad Van Wye is the visionary founder of Hoku Props, a Southern California-based fabrication studio known for its award-winning work in cosplay and prop-making. In 2016, Chad's talent and creativity were recognized when he took home the Grand Prize at TwitchCon's first-ever Cosplay Contest. Chad's journey began at Gnomon—School of Visual Effects, Games & Animation in Hollywood, California, where he honed his skills in 3D modeling under the guidance of industry-leading experts. He later earned a bachelor's degree in business with a focus on arts management from the University of California, Riverside. Combining his expertise in 3D design with a passion for crafting, Chad creates custom armor, props, and awards for video game studios and cosplay competitions. With a diverse toolkit of fabrication techniques, he transforms concepts into stunning, tangible works of art. Through Hoku Props, Chad continues to push the boundaries of creativity, bringing imagination to life.
Metal Illusions: Achieving Stunning Faux Metal Effects
Discover the art of metalcraft with Chad Van Wye of Hoku Props in a workshop designed to take your cosplay projects to the next level. In this interactive session, Chad will share his expert techniques for creating stunning faux metal finishes, guaranteed to have you exclaiming, "That's SO Metal!" During this hands-on experience, you'll learn a range of painting and weathering methods to give your costumes and props a realistic metallic look. Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer or just starting out, you'll gain valuable knowledge and practical skills that will turn your creations into eye-catching masterpieces. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the secrets of faux metal and elevate your cosplay game!
Cori Leyden-Sussler, known in the cosplay community as Lady Cels, is a Maryland-based cosplayer and costumer known for her passion for teaching and exceptional craftsmanship. With a B.F.A. in Technical Theater and Costume Design, complemented by an M.A. in Puppetry with a keen focus on Fabrication, Cori brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her craft. Drawing from over a decade of teaching experience, both in higher education and K-12 settings, Cori currently serves as a professor specializing in Maker Education. Her dedication to sharing her skills has empowered countless students to explore and excel in the world of cosplay and fabrication. Cori's vast array of specialties includes sewing, sculpture, embroidery, fabric painting, foam fabrication, thermal plastics, woodcarving, 3D printing/modeling, leatherwork, beading, and prop construction. She is a frequent guest at conventions, where she shares her insights as a panelist, professional educator, and esteemed craftsmanship judge. Beyond the cosplay world, Cori enjoys indulging in video games and spending quality time with her two rescue cats.
Ultimate Cosplay Polish: Mastering the Last 10%
Take your cosplay craftsmanship to new heights! Join Cori Leyden-Sussler as she guides you through advanced sewing techniques designed to refine your creations to professional standards. Discover the art of impeccable finishing as Cori provides methods to eliminate unsightly raw edges, ensuring your garments boast a flawless, polished appearance. From mastering the art of pressing seams to understanding the crucial role of seam finishing, Cori will equip you with the knowledge and skills to elevate your sewing game. In the workshop, you’ll explore more intricate topics, including advanced seams and seam finishes, expert hemming techniques, and the versatile applications of bias tape. Learn the delicate art of slip stitching for seamless finishing, and unlock the secrets of pad stitching to add structure and durability to your costumes. Leave behind amateur finishes and embrace the hallmark of true craftsmanship in this immersive exploration of advanced sewing techniques!
Meet Wig-Wig Cosplay, the dynamic duo from Minnesota whose passion for cosplay has taken them across the globe for over a decade. Alan Wigness (WigTall) and Janella Reiswig (wigsmall) are self-taught crafters who thrive in the competitive cosplay scene. Their dedication and skill culminated in winning gold in the duo category at the 2019 International Cosplay League in Madrid, Spain, representing Team USA. When they're not competing or dealing with the frenzy of last-minute convention preparations, Wig-Wig Cosplay is a familiar sight at conventions across North America. They've been invited to serve as panelists, judges, and special guests, sharing their knowledge and experience with fellow cosplayers. Their range of expertise includes performance and skit writing, intricate crafting skills, and thermoplastics. However, the panel that consistently draws the largest crowds is their signature presentation: "Leather in Cosplay!" Whether they're dazzling audiences on stage or engaging with fellow enthusiasts at conventions, Wig-Wig Cosplay brings energy, creativity, and a wealth of knowledge to the cosplay community.
Crafting with Leather: An Introduction for Cosplayers
Experience leathercrafting through a cosplay lens with Janella Reiswig and Alan Wigness, who have been sharing their passion for leatherwork for over 8 years. This session is designed for beginners but also offers nuggets of wisdom for those with intermediate or advanced skills. Janella and Alan simplify the process of leatherworking, guiding you through every step in a way that's easy to understand. During this workshop, you'll get a comprehensive introduction to leather, from identifying different types and their ideal applications in cosplay, to learning about the essential tools you'll need to work with leather. Janella and Alan will also discuss where to source leather and other materials, ensuring you know where to start your leather crafting. You’ll explore dyeing and painting techniques to add color and character to your pieces as well as learn about tooling and sewing leather, which will bring depth and texture to your creations. Alan and Janella will show you how to add embellishments like hardware and weathering, providing that extra flair for your cosplay costumes. A key part of leathercraft is proper care and maintenance, so this session will also cover how to store and care for your leather items to ensure they last a long time.
Khara’s a multi-hyphenate design geek and Adobe instructor who’s been sharing inspiration & know-how with fellow creatives around the globe for over 20 years. She’s authored several books, oodles of online courses, and provides customized training for clients big and small on everything from photography and design to software, business strategy, and workflow. When she’s not presenting at creative industry events, making futile attempts at reclaiming hard drive space or searching the sofa cushions for a runaway Wacom pen, Khara can be found plotting her next craft project, catching up with her favorite late-night hosts, or trying to remember where she left her phone. Find her at KharaPlicanic.com.
Illustrator for Cosplay: Design to Template
You don't need to be a graphic designer to create stunning cosplay designs with Illustrator. With just a few basic skills, you can bring your creative visions to life. Join serial crafter and Adobe expert Khara Plicanic as she guides you through setting up an artboard, building a basic design, and exporting a tiled template for printing. It's the perfect session for anyone who wants to turn their cosplay dreams into reality.
Lori Lea, also known as Scissor Wizard Cosplay, has been a prominent figure in the cosplay community for over 15 years, earning numerous national awards for her remarkable costumes and props. Her journey into cosplay began during her college years while she was training to be a sculptor, and she brings that sculptural background into every aspect of her work. As someone with ADHD, Lori often found it challenging to stay focused on a single medium. She was a self-proclaimed "hobby hopper," moving from one interest to the next. However, when she discovered cosplay, she was thrilled to find an outlet that allowed her to combine various artistic skills and techniques into a single art form. Since then, she's been captivated by the endless possibilities that cosplay offers. Lori's approach to cosplay is rooted in exploration and continuous learning. With every new project, she seeks to expand her skills and encourages others to do the same. Her enthusiasm for helping other creators improve and excel has made her a beloved mentor within the cosplay community. Whether she's constructing elaborate costumes or sharing her knowledge at conventions, Lori Lea is dedicated to inspiring and supporting fellow cosplayers in their creative journeys.
Dyeing for Cosplay: Advanced Techniques
Forget the tie-dye projects from summer camp; this workshop with Lori Lea delves into a vibrant world of fabric dyeing and staining techniques, perfect for adding custom colors and textures to your cosplay projects. Lori will cover everything from commercial RIT dyes to advanced silk painting methods, guiding you through a range of techniques that will take your cosplay to the next level. You'll explore the different types of dyes and understand which ones work best with various textiles. Lori will provide detailed explanations of each technique and share insights on which dyes to use for specific results. This session covers a wide array of dyeing methods, including synthetic dyes, natural fiber dyes, acid dyes, insect-based dyes, eco-friendly dyeing, suede staining, coffee staining, tea staining, silk painting, and even wax and chemical resists. Whether you're looking to achieve bold colors or subtle shades, this session will give you the tools and knowledge you need to transform your fabrics. Lori's expertise will guide you through the process, ensuring that you leave with the skills to create unique and striking pieces for your cosplay.
Madison May, the esteemed head pattern maker at CUT/SEW, leads their creative vision. With over a decade of experience in the costume and fashion industry, Madison has lent her expertise to Broadway productions, major theme parks, cruise lines, and television. Her passion for precision and eye for design guarantee impeccable craftsmanship in every stitch, empowering creators to express their creativity with confidence. CUT/SEW is a pioneer in beginner-friendly cosplay sewing patterns, dedicated to simplifying the sewing experience for fandom enthusiasts. Established in Orlando in 2016, the small team of two is committed to streamlining your cosplay journey, minimizing the stress typically associated with patterns.
Adjusting Patterns for Your Perfect Fit
Experience the art of precision pattern making with Madison May of CUT/SEW. Madison will share her expertise in refining and customizing garment patterns for the perfect fit. Learn how to seamlessly adjust patterns, manipulate shapes, and tackle common issues with ease. Madison will walk you through her favorite techniques, from the "slash and spread" method for reshaping patterns to integrating or removing darts to achieve a flawless fit. By the end of this session, you'll have the skills to confidently modify patterns to suit your unique style and measurements.
Melanie Jasmine, a celebrated costume maker and cosplayer from the DFW area, is dedicated to bringing beloved video game and comic book characters to life with stunning accuracy and creativity. Known as MJasmine in the cosplay community, Melanie specializes in crafting intricate designs using pleather, vinyl, knits, and unconventional materials, pushing the boundaries of traditional cosplay. A passionate educator, Melanie travels across the United States, sharing her wealth of knowledge and expertise through engaging panels, discussions, and workshops. In addition to her educational endeavors, Melanie Jasmine is a prominent figure at the Dallas Makerspace, where she serves as the committee chair for the esteemed cosplay and costuming club. Here, she dedicates her time to teaching sewing and costume-making techniques, fostering a supportive community of like-minded creators. Beyond her cosplay pursuits, Melanie is a devoted feline enthusiast with four cherished cats who have inspired her to apply her sewing prowess in crafting whimsical fantasy costumes for each of them. With a blend of talent, passion, and a touch of whimsy, Melanie Jasmine continues to captivate audiences and inspire fellow cosplayers worldwide.
Fabric Quest Success: Finding the Perfect Materials for Your Cosplay
Join Melanie Jasmine to uncover the secrets to sourcing and selecting the perfect materials for your costume creations. Whether you're a novice or seasoned maker, this workshop offers invaluable insights into fabric varieties, pattern selection, thread choices, and intricate detailing techniques. You’ll get the keys to creating stunning garments tailored to your cosplay character as Melanie shares her expert tips and tricks. From understanding the nuances of different fabrics to mastering the art of intricate detailing, this is your gateway to crafting breathtaking cosplay ensembles that capture the essence of your character. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your cosplay journey and bring your visions to life with finesse and flair!
With over a decade of experience in costume making, Sanit Klamchanuan has been a cornerstone of the industry since 2012. Joining Weta Workshop in New Zealand that same year, what began as a brief four-day contract has blossomed into nearly a decade of dedicated service. For the past five years, Sanit has been a vital member of the costumes department, specializing in the prototyping of foam-based costumes. He is also the author of Cosplay for You, a book published by FanPowered Press that teaches readers how to build cosplay from scratch or remix popular characters. Driven by a deep passion for his craft, Sanit is committed to sharing his expertise and love for costume-making with enthusiasts worldwide.
Costume Engineering: Perfecting Fit and Movement for Cosplay
Sanit Klamchanuan, an expert in turning larger-than-life character designs into wearable works of art, will take you into the world of costume crafting. Sanit will reveal the secrets of adapting 2D designs to the human form while ensuring comfort and mobility. You'll witness practical demonstrations of how to create stunning armor and intricate costume pieces, all while maintaining the balance between aesthetics and functionality. This workshop will inspire you to bring your cosplay dreams to life with tips and tricks straight from the film industry.
Bonus Content aka Digital Swag
As part of our Digital Swag Bag, we are including bonus presentations along with other downloads, coupons and resources. Here's a bonus recording you will receive:
Beverly Downen, the creative force behind Downen Creative Studios, is an author, professional cosplayer, and costume designer. She travels across the country to host workshops and lectures, sharing her expertise with fans and aspiring cosplayers at conventions and other events. Beverly is renowned for her high-quality costumes, drawing inspiration from pop culture icons as well as her own unique designs. Her passion for crafting with EVA foam is a hallmark of her work, leading to collaborations with industry giants such as Marvel, Worbla, Smooth-On, PlastiDip, Siser, Famore, and Surebonder. Beverly's talent has earned her features on platforms like Adam Savage's Tested, Be Amazed, and Marvel.com. In addition to her extensive travels, she resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and their two adorable cats. Whether she's working on a new costume or creating educational content, Beverly continues to inspire and innovate within the cosplay community.
Transforming Foam: A Workshop on Creating Realistic Textures
Join Beverly Downen from Downen Creative Studios as she guides you through a series of techniques and tools that transform ordinary EVA foam into complex and stunning textures for cosplay. In this presentation, you'll learn how to achieve a range of effects, from detailed scoring to realistic wood grain, from bone and leather textures to hammered metal and embossed designs. Beverly will share her expert tips and tricks, demonstrating how to work with EVA foam to create costumes, props, and accessories with an amazing level of detail. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cosplayer, this session will equip you with the skills to take your projects to the next level. Get ready to discover the artistry behind foam crafting and explore new ways to bring your creative visions to life! This asynchronous workshop will be available with your event recordings as part of your digital swag bag bonus content.
Famoré is our PARTNER SPONSOR and assisted in the outreach for instructors.