Posted in: Clothing, Comics, Conventions, Cosplay | Tagged: Balticon, Balticon 51, cheap cosplay, closet cosplay, cosplay on the cheap

Cosplay On The Cheap Panel At Balticon 51

Cosplay is a convention staple. People from all ages and skill levels have fun with it, but it can get expensive! Thankfully at Balticon 51, panelists Nutty, Jay Buechler, Leigh Targaryen, Holli Mintzer and Stephanie Burke gave some valuable insight into buying or making costume for cheap, usually under $20!

For starters, look inside your closet to see what you have and what can be used for costuming. Most people already own items for say, Dr. Who or Peggy Carter. If you already cosplay, reuse costumes. Take them apart, add on to them, whatever you have to do to save money. If making them is more your thing, head to your local thrift store. People donate unused fabric all the time. You can also use bed sheets, curtains, coats or other clothing items that are way too big, and seriously use your imagination. Think it'll work? You're probably right and should try it.

If you're a prop maker, you don't need expensive worbla. Yoga mats, puzzle mats, pool noodles, and yes even cardboard, can be made into some impressive things. Panelist Stephanie used her old Venetian blinds to make a head dress.

They did stress that you should spend money on things such as shoe inserts, quality makeup, and contacts (if you need them). Don't buy cheap makeup–you'll have a bad time.

All in all, cosplay doesn't need to be expensive. After all, it should be for fun!

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