Experiments in form and function..

One thing I have always loved about costuming and cosplay is trying to make the drawing or idea in to a real item. This involves a lot of work and using items for things you wouldn't normally try.

Some things I have learned.
White glue makes a very good tie dye (or cold process spray on dye) resist. It is cheep easy to use and washes right out.

Model magic makes wonderful facial appliances like stick on ears and the like but it crumbles easily if not reinforced.

Clear nail polish dose not get along with model paints.

You can sew through fun foam for things that need to be riged and flexable at the same time.(Like big fluffy bows.)

Metallic acrylics especially the gold do not play well with heat. I think it is the copper they contain.

Dry cleaning kills heat and bond and can make the adhesive seep through and leave nasty black marks.

Plastic netting makes for excellent under structures for armor but if you use it with thin fabric be prepared for the whffle like pattern to show through.

Sharpey dye works for ribbons as well as it does for synthetic hair.

Hook and eye loops make for very good laceing loops.

Wiggele eyes make for exelent rivits once they are painted.

10 things I have learned about sewing.

I have been costuming for around eight years now and these are some of the things I have learned.

1) Don't sew when sleepy or you will sew things to yourself.(blood is hard to get out of white fur)

2) Bias tape makers are worth their weight in gold.

3) Irons need a good bath now and then too. (Hot iron cleaner is lovely stuff.)

4) Make sure you have all the pins out before wearing something.

5) Label your mock ups well it will save you a lot of time. (Sewing things upside down and then figuring out why they don't fit later is embarrassing)

6) Make absolutely sure you are cutting the pieces the right way up.(Midnight fabric runs because you messed up and are hitting a deadline are not fun.)

7) Remember your seam allowances they are the difference between having a fantastic fit and a lovely thing that is too small.

8) Take things one step at a time ot you may find yourself skipping important steps. (like trying to do the bust darts after sewing the sides together)

9) Pre-wash and iron your fabric. Having your new lovely red shirt turn you a matching shade is not fun.

10) Buy extra fabric when you can. It may just save your soul. (Or your sanity whichever comes first.)