Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

To be a cosplayer is truly entering a world of conflict. As a very self conscious person I often fret the simplest things, such as losing weight for con season or making sure every detail is accurate. But no matter what my weight is or how much my outfit adheres to the original design, I still find myself in a state of bliss at cosplay events. Cosplaying opened a door to a social life, or life in general, that I couldn't imagine without it. A boundary is struck with a ball and chain when you're in character. It just feels so much easier, as the outfit itself really is an ice breaker. And as those acquaintances who acknowledge your character turn into friends and life partners, it reflects on how positive the cosplay community is and what a life changing thing cosplay can be. But to contrast, nothing is rewarding without a little suffering. Deadlines arrive all too early, pictures with captions glorify how "weird" the cosplay culture is, and jealousy lines the floor of convention centers. But it's a remarkable experience that has bettered my value in countless aspects. In all honesty, I wouldn't want to be the me I could have been without cosplay.

What are your next goals?

My new goal is to simply make cosplay a better experience. This season had me pulling all nighters to finish cosplays for conventions and let me tell you it was Hell. Cosplay is as fun as you make it, and stressing out over deadlines wasn't my fancy. Not only do I wish to improve the quality of my outfits, but also my time management towards the creation of it.

Cosplay Characters

For the most part, I've always cosplayed male characters who usually were regarded as the "cute" types. But aside from humble boy cosplays, I do the occasional female character who can kick some serious ass (Gender roles can kiss my rectum). If my records are correct, I've made 9 outfits within 4 years, including Excalibur Sonic, Wings of Counterattack! Armin, Ricken, and Sayaka Miki.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

In my mind, cosplay translates into self enhancement. Within every outfit I make, I can see physical improvement. As bettering myself is something I strive for in life, being able to compare a redux of a cosplay from a year prior and really see how my potential has developed is more than something to make me smile.

Who have been your biggest influences/role models/mentors?

Li Kovaks was one of the first cosplayers I fell in love with. Her representation inspired me to sew, and also her ability to pass between genders awed me. Along with Kovaks, Daedalus Cosplay gave me so much insight on armor making and has some of the most intricate looking EVA foam armor I've seen.

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

Don't look at a cosplayer and say, "I wish I could be as good as her/him." As anything, improvement takes time yet wields amazing results. Don't quit a cosplay all together because it's out of your skill level; try and try again until you can do it. Determination is a valuable virtue.

What is the most negative experience you've dealt with while cosplaying, and how did you handle it?

As Halloween is pretty much "International Cosplay Acceptance Day", I wore my Armin cosplay to my high school, and as expected, peopled jeered at me due to the fact I was dressed as the opposite gender. Knowing I'm very comfortable with my gender, identity, and choice, I told them there was a simple explanation that could be comprehended even by someone of their undeveloped mindset: I liked the character, and so I wanted to represent him. The mocking and slurs dissipated as the day went on because people saw I wasn't moved at their fifth grade insults, giving me a sense of power and pride.

Any final remarks or shout-outs?

Shout out to my cousin Jess for getting me into cosplay. No words could amount to the impact you've left on me! <3