Cosplayer Interview: Lizard Beans!

OK! Finally-- I have returned!

My goodness, it's been very hectic around here. But now everything has calmed down and I can get back to blogging! Yay! 

And this time, to get it restarted right, I'm doing a cosplayer interview! Lizard-Beans is a good friend of mine and a super-duper cosplayer! I hope you all enjoy reading about her!

Cosplayer Interview: Lizard Beans

Your name or Cosplay Name:

My name is Liz, on my cosplay page I go by Lizard-Beans.

Lizard Beans

Age: 

27

How long have you been cosplaying/prop building?

On and off for 7 years. I was doing one costume/convention a year from 2006-2008, then I took a break for a few years due to jerks and drama. I made a few things in that time but it wasn't til 2011 that I came back with a vengeance. I just had to meet the right people to get me excited about it again.

What was your first cosplay/prop?

Tifa Lockhart from Final Fantasy 7: Advent Children. I met a girl in college who said she'd teach me how to sew and she helped me make it. It wasn't accurate by any means but it was recognizable and I felt like a total badass. After that my dad bought me a sewing machine and I started teaching myself to sew.

Do you make your cosplays, buy them pre-made online, or have them commissioned?

I make all of them. I'll buy things like shoes, some modern clothes from thrift shops and the occasional prop but it would really wound my pride if I had someone make my costume for me. This has nothing to do with cosplay snobbery, I just like to push myself to try new things. Sometimes that means pulling my hair out but it also means I can enjoy a well deserved victory dance.

Tarja Turunen: Jacket from the music video "Nemo" by Nightwish

Why do you cosplay?

So many reasons. First of all I've always loved wearing costumes, and being able to make my own is kind of a dream come true. And getting to wear costumes with other people who are wearing costumes is even better. I also love the creativity that goes into every cosplay. One of the best parts is talking to someone and having them tell you how they used a bike pedal or a soda bottle for a weirdly formed part on an anime gun.

What is you favorite part about cosplay?

The social interaction. Being thrown into social situations with strangers is just about the hardest thing possible. You look from face to face hoping to find someone you might have something in common with. Cosplay is a great icebreaker to take away some of that strain. You know something you can talk about right off the bat. And the community is the friendliest one I've ever been a part of.

What is your least favorite part?

I cannot abide bullies, and it pains me to hear about cosplay bullying. I know some cosplayers who have been cornered by people who made fun of their choice of cosplay or tore them down for their body type in relation to their cosplay choices. It really pisses me off. Cosplay is a very personal thing that's tied to our self esteem and our love for characters who have touched us in some way. Nobody should have to put up with that. If you don't like someone's cosplay, go far away and tell someone who doesn't give a crap and get over it. Don't be a jerk to someone to make yourself feel good. 

Who is your favorite character to cosplay?

Lady Sif from Thor. I love armor, and I love it when costume designers give women practical armor instead of tittie plates. So I get to walk around with cool armor and I feel tough while still feeling like a pretty lady. 

Lady Sif: Thor the Movie

What is your favorite cosplay/prop to wear?

The Courtesan: Fiora Cavazza from the Assassin's Creed Brotherhood multiplayer. It's so stinking comfortable to wear and the costume itself is a good mixture of elegant and sexy so I feel like I look really cute. And I get to take pictures of me assassinating people with my bladed fan. Mwa ha ha ha.

Fiora Cavazza: The Courtesan from the Assassin's Creed Brotherhood multiplayer

What is your least favorite cosplay/prop to wear?

Probably Nepeta from Homestuck. The costume is mostly modern clothing so it doesn't really feel like a cosplay to me. And one of the horns always snaps off and I have to superglue it back on.

What was the most complicated cosplay/prop youíve worked on?

Definitely Lady Sif. The costume part had several layers to it that I had to figure out and make. Then I had to make the armor, which I had to make twice. The first one was my first time making armor and I made it out of Wonderflex. The problem I found with Wonderflex is that it doesn't handle large curves too well, and if it gets too hot it loses its shape. I left mine in the car in August and it melted. So I had to remake her armor out of Sintra and it looks a whole lot better. Then I also had to make the shield which took a few tries, I tried cardboard and craft foam and those flopped, I eventually found EVA foam and learned how to work with it. It sucked! But I love the finished product.

What was the least complicated?

Nepeta from Homestuck. I was able to throw it together relatively quickly and bought most of the stuff for it from Wal-Mart. Throw on some face paint and bam. Easy peasy. 

What group cosplays have you been a part of?

My Little Pony as Twilight Sparkle, Madoka Magica as Homura, Monster High as Spectra, Homestuck as Nepeta, and we're working on a Once Upon a Time group where I'm Red Riding Hood.

Twilight Sparkle: My Little Pony Gijinka

What group cosplays would like to be part of?

I would love to have actual groups for my Dragon Age and Mass Effect cosplays that I'm working on. I have so many photo ideas it would be so much fun. And a large Skyrim group would be a blast. I'm scheming an Aela the Huntress cosplay. ^_^

Who are some characters/props you plan to make in the future?

Some of my upcoming projects are: Morrigan from Dragon Age, Ashley Williams from Mass Effect, Aela the Huntress from Skyrim, a fan art version of Wonder Woman. Hopefully I'll eventually find the rest of the fabric I need to finish Avatar Kyoshi. And someday Nariko from Heavenly Sword.

Homura Akemi: Madoka Magica

What crossplay characters have you done or would like to do?

I really want to make a cosplay of Raziel from Soul Reaver. But since that would involve a body suit I really need to work up my comfort level first. I also want to work on my armor making so I can make some armored badasses like Gabranth from Final Fantasy XII.

Who is a character people say you should cosplay (or prop you should make), but you aren't sure about?

Most anime characters. I just don't like to cosplay them very much unless I love them a certain amount, like Homura. But as for specific characters, the only one that comes to mind is Impa from Zelda. She's cool and all but I hate her Ocarina of Time design. And I'm just not a Zelda fan. I'll leave Zelda cosplays for those who love them to death.

What is your dream cosplay?

This is going to take some explaining. My dream cosplay is Xena Warrior Princess. Xena means more to me than any other fictional character. Yes, even more than Gandalf. My mom died when I was seven so I was left without a female role model in my life. We had a couple of step moms who taught me more about who I don't want to be than who I did want to be. And since we moved a lot I never had a lot of consistant positive influence in my childhood. But when I was 9 Xena started airing on tv. I watched it religiously every week and I learned so much from Xena. She taught me that no matter what anyone says, being a woman shouldn't hold me back from doing anything. She taught me to be strong and stand up for myself and others, even if it's hard or involves a fight. She was strong, intelligent and beautiful and everything I wanted to be. And everything I've worked on up until now has been building up my skills so I can one day make a costume worthy of Xena. I made one out of trash bags once and I used to cut out cardboard Chakrams and throw them around while doing the yell thing. My dad yelled at me to be quiet a lot. I think I could do a lot better now.

Ellen's Cloak of Twilight: Folklore

What is a cosplay/prop you would love to make, but don't feel you could pull off?

The answer to that question changes as my skill level improves. But I'm not very good at making props, so I'd have to say any intricate giant swords. I want to cosplay Nariko from Heavenly Sword but I am terrified of making the actual sword.

In your opinion, what makes a great cosplay/prop?

Small details, patterns, designs or attachments. I find them to be the hardest part of a project but detail work adds that extra bit of oomph to make you stand out and look spectacular. 

Spectra the Ghostly Gossip: Monster High

At which conventions are we likely to see you?

Fandemonium, Sakura Con, Tomodachi Fest, and hopefully I'll be able to go to some Comic Cons this year ^_^

Any advice to other cosplayers/prop makers?

Dream big, but start small. Don't make your dream cosplay your first cosplay unless you have a lot of crafting experience. Most of us don't so we start with something easy in order to learn more about materials and how to manipulate them. You get better as you go, but don't expect too much of yourself right off. I've also learned that make up really helps you when it comes to taking photos. They enhance your features and keep light from shining off of you where it shouldn't. And if you're new to conventions make sure you have a friend with you the first time. It's all about meeting people but that can be hard at first and it's easy to get overwhelmed in an environment with a lot of people coming and going.

Arwen 'Undomiel': Lord of the Rings

What are some other hobbies you have, other than cosplaying?

I consider myself a scholar, so I love to study history and read old texts like mythology and epic poetry. I also enjoy exercise, video games, music, tv shows and cute animal pictures (who doesn't?).

Favorite anime/tv shows?

Obviously Xena! Alias, Buffy, Supernatural, Princess Tutu, Madoka Magica, Cowboy Bebop, Star Trek, Mai Hime, Firefly, Avatar, Samurai Jack, Arrested Development, My Little Pony, Adventure Time.

Favorite movie?

The Fifth Element, Lord of the Rings, Avengers (I love Loki), Nightmare Before Christmas, The Long Kiss Goodnight.

Favorite books/manga?

Lord of the Rings, Kushiel's Dart, Shakespeare, Edgar Allen Poe, Paradise Lost, The Prose Edda, most books by Neil Gaiman, The Metamorphoses.

Favorite video games?

Soul Reaver, Folklore, Heavenly Sword, Assassin's Creed, Final Fantasy VII and X.

Favorite color?

Red, purple, black.

Favorite food?

Chocolate! Also fried rice. And garlic bread. Yum.

Favorite desert?

Chocolate

Favorite curse word?

Fuck. It's so fucking versitile. Fuck yeah fuckers.

What are some websites where we can see more of you?

Facebook  and Tumblr.

Yay! She's awesome! I love how deep cosplay goes for some folks. It's not always just dress up. And I think that's sweet. 

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it! I'll hopefully be posting every week, but we shall see how busy I get--what with now being part of the work force and all. Not that I was real consistent when I wasn't part of the work force...


Until next time!

~Edward

Cosplayer Interview: Eric Smart/Trifinity Cosplay

Yay! Interview time! Finally. It's been a while hasn't it? And guess what?? I finally interviewed a boy!Woo! And his name is Eric! He is a very amazing prop builder. I've seen his work at the cons and am always impressed! Someday I'll commission him to help me with the list of props I need for my cosplays. But on with the interview!

Cosplayer Interview

Your name or Cosplay Name:

Eric Smart, or the husband half of Trifinity Cosplay

Age:

My state ID has me at 28, mentally who knows.

How long have you been cosplaying/prop building?

I first cosplayed at Anime Oasis 06 and it had a prop that I built with it, so 7 year on both accounts.

What was your first cosplay/prop?

My very first cosplay was Kaze or the Black Wind from the anime Final Fantasy Unlimited, which brought about my first prop, the Magun which is Kaze's weapon.

Demyx (original version) from kingdom hearts featuring my construction of the Sitar
Cosplayer: Laura Gray
Photographer: Jason Wills

Do you make your cosplays, buy them pre-made online, or have them commissioned?

I am part of a husband and wife duo *I'm the husband ;)* I'm the crafter, I build the pros and odds and ends that we need for our outfits. She is the seamstress and makes our outfits. So together we make pretty much make everything we cosplay.

Why do you cosplay?

Cause it's fun, vague answers aside I do it for many reasons. I love being creative and really enjoy bringing to life something that was once a two dimensional character. I love flexing my 'craft muscles', as it were, and get to use some of the knowledge I possess. Also if nothing else it is a great way to nerd out with people. Cause it is always fun to nerd out with more then just yourself, well in my opinion at least.

What is you favorite part about cosplay?

This is a tough one, there are so many elements about cosplay that I love. So I shall pick community! Like I said above, I really enjoy finding others that are into the same thing as me. Cosplaying is a huge advantage for finding people to be nerdy with. It's practically a billboard saying hey I like this show.

What is your least favorite part?

I personally haven't had this but have seen friends go through it and that is cosplay discrimination. Nerds, who are more then often outcast by 'normal' society, outcasting other nerds seems completely backwards, not to mention wrong. People cosplay for different reasons, have different skill levels and different body types. I wish they would let others have fun doing what they do and keep their opinion to themselves. Cause if anything the culture needs to band together.

(Original Steampunk Character) Reginald Rhythm's DJ goggles

Who is your favorite character to cosplay?

That is easy, Maes Hughes! He is such a fun, energetic, iconic and a good natured guy. It's always fun to run around showing off daughter pictures to everyone. I've also been told I fit the character quite well.

What is your favorite cosplay/prop to wear?

Most of my steampunk outfits. Not only do I love the outfits that I have to go with the era, as long as it isn't scorching hot out. It is also original creations that I've poured much thought into. The biggest part of my steampunk cosplays are the props that go along with the persona of the character. This way I not only get to show off my craftsmanship but my imagination and inventiveness as well. Most of them are also really comfortable to wear.

What is your least favorite cosplay/prop to wear?

I have to say I love this cosplay and the prop that goes with it, I love wearing it to … as long as it doesn't take all day. That would be my first steampunk original character, Nigel Witt. The prop, which is my concept of a steam powered cellphone, is the part that can get to me. After wearing it for a long time it starts to get to my back and always seems to start slipping awkwardly on me. I love the looks but it does eventually get to my back.

(Original Steampunk Character) Nigel Wit and his steam powered cellphone
Photographer: Jason Wills

What was the most complicated cosplay/prop you’ve worked on?

Not counting the one I'm working on right now cause it would win out once it's done. There are several that could actually compete for that spot Yoko's Gun from Gurren Lagann and my Steampunk Cellphone to name a couple. Overall I think the Quick Fix for the Medic in Team Fortress 2 takes the lead as of now cause not only was it a complex build to begin with, then add in the fact that I was building it to light up in two separate places. With the addition of the wiring, battery and lighting system defiantly made it less than easy.

Quick Fix Medic Canon for the Medic in Team Fortress 2

What was the least complicated?

Hands down the easiest, least complex prop I ever built was Cloud's night stick for his Crisis Core outfit. Two different sized dowels placed together add some rubber ends and some paint and bam, it was done.

What group cosplays have you been a part of?

I have been in a Kingdom Hearts, FullMetal Alchemist and a Fruits Basket group.

What group cosplays would like to be part of?

I would love / have plans to eventually be in a Trigun, Serenity / Firefly, Avatar: the Last Airbender and Legend of Korra groups.

Who are some characters/props you plan to make in the future?

One of the main ones is Nicholas D Wolfwood from Trigun and I would be building his cross, Punisher . Mal from Serenity and I would build his gun. A Laputa Guardian from Castle in the Sky and that is a prop all in its own. Bolin from Legend of Korra. Also I'm sure more steampunk down the road.

What crossplay characters have you done or would like to do?

Sorry but these legs aren't made for crossplay.

Yoko from Gurren Lagann featuring my construction of Yoko's gun
Cosplayer: French Chicken Productions.
Photographer: Red Zone Fandom

Who is a character people say you should cosplay (or prop you should make), but you aren’t sure about?

Yep, a Big Daddy from Bioshock. I'm sure I could do it but it would be a big daunting project full of lots of crafting and more then likely some swearing, not to mention the cost.

What is your dream cosplay/prop?

Wargreymon for Digimon, that would be both a cosplay and a prop all in itself. Prop wise, actual prop wise Wolfwood's Punisher, not the covered up in cloth version. I've always wanted to cosplay him but refuse to until I can make a Punisher worthy of that cosplay.

What is a cosplay/prop you would love to make, but don’t feel you could pull off?

I haven't really come across a cosplay or prop that I felt I couldn't do. Not saying I think I'm some kind of god when it comes to cosplaying or building. Its rather I haven't looked into anything overwhelming or I at least want to TRY tackling it.

In your opinion, what makes a great cosplay/prop?

This is a bit difficult. In general I think if a person puts all their heart and effort into a cosplay or prop and they have fun doing it and wearing it, even if they don't have mad skills, then it is great. But if you mean what do I marvel over when I see really great cosplays then it is attention to detail and for props it is that they are proportional.

At which conventions are we likely to see you?

Fandemonium and Anime Oasis have always been two I frequently go to, I’m hoping that soon I can expand that to one of the Seattle's cons as well.

Soul in Scythe form from Soul Eater

Any advice to other cosplayers/prop makers?

Well this is one that I always say when I run my prop building panels that I find very important: Try and make your prop proportionalized to you. It's not to difficult of a math process and that is coming from someone who hates math. Just find a good picture of the character with the prop you are trying to make and measure the characters height in centimeters (cm) then create a division problem. Your height (in centimeters) divided by the height of the character in the picture. That answer is your magic number. Now measure the prop you wish to build and multiply it by your magic number and thus you have the height the prop should be compared to your personal height.

The other thing would be do your research, the more reference shots that you can find the less you'll miss and the more accurately detailed your prop will be. And as always have fun!

What are some other hobbies you have, other than cosplaying?

Some of my hobbies tend to run into my cosplaying, like leather working. I also do miniature scenes, writing and am involved in Cowboy Fast Draw (I get to dress up for that as well :) )

Favorite anime/tv shows?

FullMetal Alchemist, Mythbusters, Star Trek (predominately Voyager)

Favorite movie?

From the older movie it will always be the Back to the Future trilogy

From newer movies, Rise of the Guardians

Favorite books/manga?

The Fablehaven series and Boneshaker.

Favorite video games?

Kingdom Hearts!

Favorite color?

Black no Bluuuuuuuuuuuuuuue * gets flung off bridge* If you get the reference you're awesome, if not you're still awesome. It's true though, blue is my favorite closely followed by black.

Favorite food?

Pepsi Chicken, mmmmm good!

Favorite desert?

Cheesecake with strawberry topping.

Favorite curse word?

I don't curse a lot while my child is present, which he is during a lot of the building process. Though I would have to say ‘damn it’ gets mumbled under my breath the most.

What are some websites where we can see more of you?

http://trifinitycosplay.deviantart.com/

https://www.facebook.com/TrifinityCosplay

Woo!

His stuff is super awesome! If you need a prop guy, this is your man! Next week will be his cosplay showcase! I can't wait to see what he choses to show us! No doubt it will be epic!

Until next week!

~Edward

Cosplayer Interview: Samantha Witt

Wow... I am so lame... I don't even have an excuse this time. I just totally forgot.So I'd best get on with it before it's Friday!

I think today I will do a cosplayer interview!

Today our guest is Samantha! I don't know her super well, but I have spoken to her a few times and do know her cosplays! I've also been to her panel about body image and cosplay, which was very emotional and really great! I highly suggest everyone attend it if she does another similar panel! I have so much respect for her skills as a seamstress and cosplayer. She is one of my cosplaying role models!

Your name or Cosplay Name:

Samantha Witt

Photo By Carol Witt

Age: 25 

How long have you been cosplaying? About 5 years. 

What was your first cosplay?

 Tifa Lockheart from Final Fantasy 7 Advent Children.

Tifa Lockheart FF7
Photo by either Stephanie Obele or James Kelley

Do you make your cosplays, buy them pre-made online, or have them commissioned? 

I used to order them off line but after a bad experience I started to teach myself to sew. Except for things like shoes and wigs and sometimes jewelry I now make all my own stuff. 

Why do you cosplay? 

When I first started to cosplay it was an escape from my previous husband. It was a way for me to get out and experience something I was actually passionate about and it gave me a sense of belonging and acceptance. Besides that it was all around just fun!

Steampunk Witch Doctor OC
Photo by Tim Boothby

What is you favorite part about cosplay? 

The costuming and interaction with other people. Cosplay really helped me come out of my shell and embrace my true personality. I love the attention when I am in costume! 

What is your least favorite part? 

The bloody drama! I dislike not only that but also the unhealthy popularity contest that cosplay is somewhat devolving into and the unnecessary negativity towards cosplayers and their body types.   

Who is your favorite character to cosplay?

Personally I like wearing my own original character creations the most but if I have to pick a character I love wearing Seras Victoria the most. 

Seras Victoria- Hellsing OVA
Photo by Kyle Duckwits

What is your favorite cosplay to wear? 

I love my AT-AT the most. It's tiring and not always so coordinated to walk in but it makes people smile the most so it's worth it. 

What is your least favorite cosplay to wear?

Subaru from .Hack/Sign. Don't get me wrong I like the cosplay and it is very pretty but oh my god it is such a bitch to get into and walk around in. It is only rare times I will wear it. 

AT-AT Walker- Star Wars
Photo by Tim Boothby

What was the most complicated cosplay you’ve worked on? 

It is a mix of AT-AT, Subaru and Glados. All were complicated and the top and sleeves of Subaru cause many fits of crying. 

What was the least complicated? 

Jack Frost from Rise of the Guardians. 

What group cosplays have you been a part of? 

None, never been invited to one. 

What group cosplays would like to be part of? 

I am up for almost any group as long as I get enough time to actually make something for it.

Who are some characters you plan to cosplay in the future? 

My next character cosplay will be Christie from Dead or Alive and I'll have that for Fandom 2013. The next OC I want to do is a Steampunk Satyr. 

Military Punk OC
Photo by Tim Boothby

What crossplay characters have you done or would like to do? 

I have cosplayed Jack Frost and the next one I am thinking is either Merle or Daryl from the Walking Dead. >W<

Jack Frost- Rise of the Gaurdians
Photo by Tim Boothby

Who is a character people say you should cosplay, but you aren’t sure about? 

I've had suggestions to do characters from Ah My Goddess, Catwoman from Batman and a few others. I consider the suggestion but most of the time I won't do it. I have to feel some passion for the character to take on the job of creating it. 

What is your dream cosplay? 

Alduin from Skyrim. It would be a quadsuit of epicness! 

What is a cosplay you would love to do, but don’t feel you could pull off?

Pocahontas. I don't feel like any amount of spray tan or make-up would let me do this character justice. 

In your opinion, what makes a great cosplay? 

Sincere effort in your work.   

Emma Ai- Hell Girl
(Pppsst- I call this sincere effort! ^_^ ~ Edward)

At which conventions are we likely to see you? 

Anime Oasis, Tomodachi Fest, Fandomonium, FurIdaho, Anime Banzai, Anime Vegas and hopefully one day I'll get up to Sakura con. 

Any advice to other cosplayers?

If you're new to the fandom stay out of any and all drama if you can. If you are new to making anything just remember you are going to make crap you'll want to burn with fire but if you keep at it and not quit when it gets hard you'll eventually become that well-making cosplaying person that everyone will like and admire. I've been there and I know other people who are there right now. Also remember and hold it to your heart that cosplay to the very core is supposed to be FUN! It's not about being the most popular, the sexiest, the skinniest, or who can get the most pictures taken. It’s all about having fun and expressing yourself so don't take it too seriously and ignore the con snobs! Keep this in mind: Beauty fades but dumb is forever.

What are some other hobbies you have, other than cosplaying?

I enjoy video games and nature. I love to go to the park and swing. I like making dresses (not for cosplay).

Favorite anime/tv shows? I adore Hell Girl but right now I love Walking Dead and Game of Thrones. 

Favorite movie? Too many to count

Favorite books/manga? I love The Stand by Stephen King and Jurassic Park by Micheal Crichton. I don't read manga. 

Favorite video games? God of War series is my ultimate favorite followed by the Final Fantasy series. 

Favorite color? Purple

Favorite food? Pot Roast with gravy and potatoes. 

Favorite desert? Anything with cookies dough.

Favorite curse word? Son of a dick! 

What are some websites where we can see more of you? I have a Facebook page and a DA page.

WHAT WHAT WHAAAT IS THIS ABOUT NOT BEING INVITED TO A GROUP?!?! This must be changed. I have decreed it! 
Also... I'd like to note, that I too have a deep love for pot roast with gravy and potatoes.

Anyway! She's awesome! And I suggest you all go check out her other pages because these photos are just a small snippet of her amazing work!

Next week will be her showcase! So come check it out, cus it's a good one!!


~Edward

P.S. I'd like to say, I am so happy that my emoticons are working again. How I missed them!

Cosplayer Interview: Rina

So this week it's Cosplayer Interview time with my friend Rina! I met her at Sakura-con 2012 at a Sailor Moon photo gathering. I saw her Small Lady and Super Sailor Moon cosplays there. I really love her work and she was super nice! We took photos in our princess dresses and now she shall always and forever be Chibi Usa in my mind. Haha. But she's done many other awesome cosplays that I can't wait to share with you guys! So, I'd best get on with it then!

Your name or Cosplay Name:

Katarina (Rina) Love

Photo by Riamux Creations

Age:
20

How long have you been cosplaying?

Since October 2009, so 3-4 years. Sakura Con 2013 marks my fourth year there!

What was your first cosplay?

Sailor Mini Moon! Halloween 2009. I went full out and dyed my hair pink and spray painted heel boots. We were going to a show/concert, but decided to bail because it was way too boring.

Chibi Usa (I love this one a whole lot~Edward)
Photo by Sarah Homeyer

Do you make your cosplays, buy them pre-made online, or have them commissioned?

I make most of mine, sometimes with friends help. I also thrift/shop around for items if it’s a casual outfit/look so I don’t have to make it from scratch! It saves me money.

Why do you cosplay?

Why not? I like attention, I like being creative, and I don’t mind being in front of a camera. I gained so many friends from cosplay that I cannot imagine my life without conventions these days! I started off modeling before cosplay, so with costuming I really got to put my sewing talents to the test and I’m constantly learning new traits. I love the challenges that new costumes can bring.

What is you favorite part about cosplay?

Hanging out with my friends and working on our costumes (or procrastinating on them).
Taking photos and feeling pretty, strong, evil, or however my character acts
Creating the costume and shopping for materials and doing the research.

What is your least favorite part?

Not having time to finish things or getting stressed out and a major break out RIGHT BEFORE CON. UGH. I hate acne. Also, getting ready the day of Con and having everyone else bother me and wanting my help to get them ready too. I am not your mother.

Lara Croft
Photo by Riamux Creations

Who is your favorite character to cosplay?

Lara Croft and Usagi/Chibiusa Tsukino! Those are my top three currently.

What is your favorite cosplay to wear?

Favorite?? Oh goodness. I really enjoy being Usagi Tsukino/Sailor Moon, but I also really enjoy being Lara Croft and getting dirty. I get to really show off my vulnerable and strong side. I love wearing boots and skirts.
WonderGirl is also super comfy, so I won’t be retiring that any time soon.

Wondergirl
Photo by Kindra

What is your least favorite cosplay to wear?

I made a costume for a friend that I only wore for 30 minutes and we never got photos together. I’m not sure I’ll bring it out ever again either. So I guess it would be Mana Ouma. 

What was the most complicated cosplay you’ve worked on?

So far I think Princess Serenity tops the charts on complicated. Oh man… Princess dresses just are so much fun but a pain in the ass. I also learned how to use boning, buttons as closures and it’s a no zipper dress. Lots of hand sewing was involved, and I styled the wig entirely by myself, as well as made the hair pearls. Wearing the wig and dress is also a monster, so I can’t wear it for long sadly.

Princess Serenity
Photo by Estelia Photography

What was the least complicated?

Sookie Stackhouse. It was basically put together by itself. As well as WonderGirl. Leggings and a tank top? YES!

What group cosplays have you been a part of?

Well I am currently a part of a Young Justice group, which is a lot of fun! Everyone is really nice, and they really care about the quality of their costumes. You can follow them on facebook at The Breakers Cosplay.
And I love being a part of really well put together groups without doubles. I also adore my X-Men group that I’m a part of, and we did that for ECCC 2013. 2014 will be even better! :D

What group cosplays would like to be part of?

It would be cool to have a giant functioning Disney group too at some point. As well as a FULL Sailor Moon group without doubles, I really hate doubles. 

Winter Tinker Bell
Photo by Fearless Photoworks

Who are some characters you plan to cosplay in the future?

Time for a list!
Eternal Sailor Chibi Moon and Moon
Angewoman
Gatoman
Super Girl
Nightwing (Genderbent)
Garret (THIEF)
Tinkerbell (all of her cute outfits!)
Megara
Oliver Queen-Green Arrow
Cinderella, and plenty more

What crossplay characters have you done or would like to do?

I did a semi-feminized version of Link for Halloween last year. I wouldn’t mind re-doing him for a convention though. But I tend to genderbend the characters without sexifying them instead of straight up crossplay. I just am not a fan of the whole flattening my boobs to look like a boy thing, and I have a booty!
I plan to do Oliver Queen from Green Arrow genderbent though! I’m really excited for that.

Who is a character people say you should cosplay, but you aren’t sure about?

I have gotten Saria from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Ivy from Soul Calibur 4. Neither of these characters appeals to me, so the chances of me cosplaying them are never.

What is your dream cosplay?

Super Sailor Chibi Moon, It’s not even hard, I just haven’t made it yet!
Otherwise I should probably look through my list and figure out who my dream costume is afterwards. ;D

Hope Summers
Photo by Fearless Photoworks

What is a cosplay you would love to do, but don’t feel you could pull off?

It’s not a matter of not being able to pull it off, as it is the funds to pull it off.
So Big Daddy (Bio Shock), Toothania (Rise of the Gaurdians), anything mascot related I just can not do!

In your opinion, what makes a great cosplay?

A great attitude, a well made costume, and making sure the costume is fit to your body. (Not overly tight or loose!)

At which conventions are we likely to see you?

Sakura-Con, PAX Prime, Emerald City Comic Con, Jet City Comic Show, and probably some others! ;)

Princess Small Lady (Forever my Chibi Usa~Edward)
Photo by Darkain Multimedia

Any advice to other cosplayers?

Don’t treat your cosplay friends like they owe you something or they’re your servants. The first few times they may be okay with letting you know tips, or helping, but don’t be a user. Don’t expect people to make things for you. Actually learn things for yourself and USE THE INTERNET. Google is your best friend.
Don’t have time to learn a new trade? Ebay and thrift shops can offer a plethora of finds if you’re willing to alter things!
When someone offers you a quote on a commission, be kind and respond with “Thank you”, if you decide to NOT go with them, be courteous and say “Thank you for your time, but currently I won’t be needing your services”. 

What are some other hobbies you have, other than cosplaying?

Hitting the gym, thrift shopping, dying my hair, and sometimes I game. I also love modeling and styling for photoshoots and being outdoors during the summer.

Magik
Photo by Darkain Multimedia

Favorite anime/tv shows?

I am a huge ARROW (CW) fan girl. So that’s one of my favorites. Sailor Moon is my favorite anime of all time, so that really doesn’t need to be said.
I also enjoy: Firefly, Supernatural, Adventure Time, and Regular Show, Digimon Adventure. And I watch way too much Disney!

Favorite movie?

Fifth Element. Cinderella, TinkerBell (series), The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. 

Favorite books/manga?

Manga: Sailor Moon. I don’t read much manga anymore aside from this. I read comics, so Uncanny X-Force, Uncanny Avengers, Old Man Logan (Wolverine), Cable and Deadpool. Fables. 30 days of Night. Can you tell I love Marvel?
Books: I haven’t read any in a while, but I really enjoyed the UGLIES series by Scott Westerfield.

Super Sailor Moon
Photo By Darkain Multimedia

Favorite video games?

Tomb Raider (series), Ratchet and Clank (series), The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Dance Central

Favorite color?

My favorite color is pink, but I also like blues!

Favorite food?

This is a hard one since I love a variety of foods! Cream of Spinach Soup and Broccoli and Cheese soup are amazing, and a grilled cheese. I also grew up on cheeseburgers, and love my father’s cooking!

Favorite desert?

Cookies. Seriously. These are my weakness!

Favorite curse word?

Fuck. It’s blunt and honest, just like me.

What are some websites where we can see more of you?

You can follow me on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RinaMeowsir or on deviantArt under Tarinalove. I update facebook before my other websites though!

Bonus pic of Rina and I as Small Lady and Serenity. ^_^

Yay!! See, she does lots more than moonie cosplays. But Small Lady will always by my personal favorite! I hope you guys enjoyed getting to know Rina! Next week is her Cosplay Showcase! And then maybe the week after I'll do an update. But the truth is.... I haven't been doing much cosplay stuff lately.
 But I'll tell you all about that in a couple weeks!


~Edward