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PAX Prime 2013 Costume Thread
arwen_doll16_LOTR
CommanderRegistered User regular
CommanderRegistered User regular
Welcome to the PAX Prime 2013 costume thread!
What is everyone planning on doing for their costumes for 2013?
Any big ideas or even just concepts of what you might want to do?
Games or other things coming out or are already out that you might want to base a costume off of?
Got any questions about how to make something or need opinions and advice?
Want to show off your work and post pics?
Find more members for your costume group or talk about a costume contest?
You have found the right place, now post to your hearts content!
Can't wait to see everyone's awesome work this year!
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please keep in mind this post will be updated as often as possible to provide current information.
FAQS:
Are there really that many people that cosplay for PAX?
There are enough of us that you are reading this thread!
I'm not sure if I want to dress up, what do you think?
Dressing up is a personal choice. No one will judge you either way.
Does my costume have to be video game related?
Not at all! There are a wide variety of costumes from all themes in geek culture from Doctor Who to Power Rangers, anime to video games! If you want to wear a costume then do it!
I am a beginner at costume making, any advice?
Many people will have many different things to say about this. At the heart of it all is to stick to your comfort zone. Never sewn a thing in your life? Don't make a full Princess Peach gown. Start out with something simple enough that you can make it, and make it well enough for YOU to be proud of. Don't get intimidated by others. Many people who do the large scale things have been at this a while. Also, nothing wrong with taking some pieces from your own wardrobe or the store and using them.
I have a cool prop weapon, can I bring it!? (this is the biggest one of all so please read on carefully!)
Please refer to these rules first and use common sense. If you ABSOLUTELY cannot find the answer to your question then please direct questions in a message to AaronC who is the security manager of PAX.
Do not flood him with questions if your answer can be found here!!!
PAX ATTENDEE COSTUME WEAPON POLICY
The official policy is as follows:
A COSTUME WEAPON IS *NOT* PERMITTED AT PAX IF:
- It fires or can fire any sort of projectile. {Nerf guns are only allowed if they have been deactivated and can not fire)
- It is airsoft, even if deactivated
- It looks like a real firearm at "second glance." (Yes, even if it's a kid's toy.)
- It's sharp or pointy enough to cut or pierce someone with moderate pressure. This includes all real swords, daggers and knives. It also includes ceramic blades, needles, syringes and anything that can pierce (such as a Little Sister syringes made of wood*).
- Bats are allowed as long as you don't go around hitting people with em. "Bats are ok. Don't be a dick with them."
- Rubber prop weapons are allowed only if they meet the following requirements.
*Must not have a point that can pierce. If it has a point then make sure it is flexible.
*Must be a bright color (yellow, orange, neons type of bright colors). Blue, black, and other dark colors will fall under the "Looks like a firearm at second glance" category and will not be allowed.
*Please note that, Little Sister syringes that are made of wood are not allowed because you can accidentally poke someone, especially in the Expo hall. If the syringe part is made of rubber instead it would be totally acceptable.
Friendly Advice-
Foam props are perfectly acceptable and are very popular. These are a good choice since they can't hurt, can be made to look very good, and are totally accepted by the convention center and TSA if you are flying.
PEACE BONDING AT CON FOR COSTUME WEAPONS
NOTE: This peace bonding information is from PAX Prime 2012. If anything changes for 2013 then this board and this post will reflect those changes.
The method of checking will be a booth located on the 4th floor at the Info Desk. It will be staffed by enforcers from 1 hour prior to the show to the close of Expo Hall. All attendees who have costume weapons will be directed there. The Security Management Team will also be checking the exterior line and the expo line before the doors open to alleviate any delay for people who show up before the show opens.
Anyone who has a costume weapon needs to be verified. NO EXCEPTIONS!
Attendees whose weapons are allowed will have to show that they have been checked and Ok'd. If an attendee's weapon is approved they will receive BOTH a zip tie (color TBA) placed on the weapon and a sticker on the back of their badge with a short description of the item and the name of the Enforcer who checked it. Any Enforcer can verify to if the weapon has been checked and that you have a sticker and zip tie on it. Please note that zip ties will be placed on the prop in an area of your choice. It must remain secure but it can be in an area that can be covered for photos.
If you bring something in that's not allowed or not approved you will be politely required to leave, stow the offending item in your vehicle/hotel room/etc, and then return. If you have any doubt as to whether your prop weapon falls under these restrictions - it probably does. Err on the side of caution!
PEACE BONDING LOCATION
The costume weapons check booth has been be at the Info desk on the 4th floor in the past, if this changes for 2013 then this post will be updated with the new location.
If the pattern from 2012 continues then the Security Team will be going through the outside line before the center opens, so if your early you won't have to worry about not being able to go somewhere right away.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND IF GOING IN COSTUME:
*See weapons policy and peace bonding sections above for prop weapons (this really can't be stressed enough!)
*You will want to wear comfortable shoes. Shoes are required at all times anyways. Even if they do not match this is a HUGE deal. If you don't think you can walk all day in them, then don't do it.
*You will most likely get stopped for photos (especially if your costume is good). If you don't feel like it then simply tell the person that you are not doing pictures right now but to come find you later, the main thing is to be polite. Keep in mind also that some people are fans of "ninja photos", they walk by and nonchalantly snap a photo of you while you are simply standing there or eating, or...anything really. Once again be polite and sometimes you may even offer to take a nice photo for them (without your mouth full of food!).
*When taking pictures try to move out of the crowd and off to the side where there is less traffic (I am sure the person wanting the picture will also understand).
*The convention center will be hot. Keep this in mind especially for costumes with layers. Fake layers (fake collars, half sleeves that are sewn into a shirt to make it look like layers etc.) are all neat tricks to saving you from sweating like crazy.
*Weight of a costume can be a big issue. Think about it practically. If you can't carry the weight of a costume on you for the time that you will be in the center then don't wear it. Try to lighten up the load with hollow structures and the like. Remember that costumes don't always have to be the exact proportions of the original to look good.
*Costume size can also be a problem. Keep in mind that you will be wearing this into a convention center full of tons of people. No one wants to get smacked in the face by your giant Jesse from Pokemon wig or by your Final Fantasy bigger than a person sword.
*Swag is a very common thing, try to have a plan of where you will keep all your awesome shirts, buttons, magnets, games, etc. Matching bags are always a popular option. Having a buddy to help carry your stuff is also another option. Please note, there is no coat check or spare room to keep stuff in for attendees. It all depends on personal preference but is something to keep in mind.
*Freshness can be a little lacking by the third day of being in costume (this is not meant to offend anyone but this should be addressed). Try to change at least any underlayers to your costume everyday. If this can't happen then try to hang up the costume in your room for the night so that it can at least air out (febreeze isn't a bad option either). Wear deodorant and any other freshening toiletries that you prefer and shower each day to keep yourself and your costume nice and fresh.
*Finally, it is a good idea to carry a few safety pins (or your costume equivalent) with you to make on the fly repairs while at the convention center. Accidents happen, especially the more people you add to a situation. It would be a shame for someone to step on the hem of Kaylee's Fluffy Layer Cake Dress and have it rip and leave you exposed.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
GROUPS:
If you have a group page that you would like to have posted here then please PM me!
Keep in mind that most groups make a Facebook page to connect and organize through since things can get lost easily on this thread.
Mass Effect
(This is a closed Facebook group, if you would like membership then please make sure that you either message me (arwen_doll16_LOTR) here on the PA forums, or make your albums with your Mass Effect costume progress public so that an admin will approve you.)
Team Fortress 2
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
GROUP MEETUP TIMES AND LOCATIONS:
Assassin's Creed Universe - August 30th @ 1500 - Area 3 (The Bell) in Freeway Park https://www.facebook.com/events/527927760578672/
Full info can also be found on page 10 of this thread (scroll to see the post by PlanetsideCosplay
Mass Effect Universe- August 31st @1800 - Freeway Park (multiple locations)- will be meeting at 1700 on 7th and Pike to allow group to meet and others who want pics to follow.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CONTESTS:
TBA
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I HAVE MADE ANOTHER THREAD FOR SHARING/ASKING FOR COSPLAY PICTURES!!!
Please use it instead of this thread for such purposes! I love you all and thank you!!
http://forums.penny-arcade.com/discussion/182579/cosplay-picture-sharing#latest
What is everyone planning on doing for their costumes for 2013?
Any big ideas or even just concepts of what you might want to do?
Games or other things coming out or are already out that you might want to base a costume off of?
Got any questions about how to make something or need opinions and advice?
Want to show off your work and post pics?
Find more members for your costume group or talk about a costume contest?
You have found the right place, now post to your hearts content!
Can't wait to see everyone's awesome work this year!
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please keep in mind this post will be updated as often as possible to provide current information.
FAQS:
Are there really that many people that cosplay for PAX?
There are enough of us that you are reading this thread!
I'm not sure if I want to dress up, what do you think?
Dressing up is a personal choice. No one will judge you either way.
Does my costume have to be video game related?
Not at all! There are a wide variety of costumes from all themes in geek culture from Doctor Who to Power Rangers, anime to video games! If you want to wear a costume then do it!
I am a beginner at costume making, any advice?
Many people will have many different things to say about this. At the heart of it all is to stick to your comfort zone. Never sewn a thing in your life? Don't make a full Princess Peach gown. Start out with something simple enough that you can make it, and make it well enough for YOU to be proud of. Don't get intimidated by others. Many people who do the large scale things have been at this a while. Also, nothing wrong with taking some pieces from your own wardrobe or the store and using them.
I have a cool prop weapon, can I bring it!? (this is the biggest one of all so please read on carefully!)
Please refer to these rules first and use common sense. If you ABSOLUTELY cannot find the answer to your question then please direct questions in a message to AaronC who is the security manager of PAX.
Do not flood him with questions if your answer can be found here!!!
PAX ATTENDEE COSTUME WEAPON POLICY
The official policy is as follows:
A COSTUME WEAPON IS *NOT* PERMITTED AT PAX IF:
- It fires or can fire any sort of projectile. {Nerf guns are only allowed if they have been deactivated and can not fire)
- It is airsoft, even if deactivated
- It looks like a real firearm at "second glance." (Yes, even if it's a kid's toy.)
- It's sharp or pointy enough to cut or pierce someone with moderate pressure. This includes all real swords, daggers and knives. It also includes ceramic blades, needles, syringes and anything that can pierce (such as a Little Sister syringes made of wood*).
- Bats are allowed as long as you don't go around hitting people with em. "Bats are ok. Don't be a dick with them."
- Rubber prop weapons are allowed only if they meet the following requirements.
*Must not have a point that can pierce. If it has a point then make sure it is flexible.
*Must be a bright color (yellow, orange, neons type of bright colors). Blue, black, and other dark colors will fall under the "Looks like a firearm at second glance" category and will not be allowed.
*Please note that, Little Sister syringes that are made of wood are not allowed because you can accidentally poke someone, especially in the Expo hall. If the syringe part is made of rubber instead it would be totally acceptable.
Friendly Advice-
Foam props are perfectly acceptable and are very popular. These are a good choice since they can't hurt, can be made to look very good, and are totally accepted by the convention center and TSA if you are flying.
PEACE BONDING AT CON FOR COSTUME WEAPONS
NOTE: This peace bonding information is from PAX Prime 2012. If anything changes for 2013 then this board and this post will reflect those changes.
The method of checking will be a booth located on the 4th floor at the Info Desk. It will be staffed by enforcers from 1 hour prior to the show to the close of Expo Hall. All attendees who have costume weapons will be directed there. The Security Management Team will also be checking the exterior line and the expo line before the doors open to alleviate any delay for people who show up before the show opens.
Anyone who has a costume weapon needs to be verified. NO EXCEPTIONS!
Attendees whose weapons are allowed will have to show that they have been checked and Ok'd. If an attendee's weapon is approved they will receive BOTH a zip tie (color TBA) placed on the weapon and a sticker on the back of their badge with a short description of the item and the name of the Enforcer who checked it. Any Enforcer can verify to if the weapon has been checked and that you have a sticker and zip tie on it. Please note that zip ties will be placed on the prop in an area of your choice. It must remain secure but it can be in an area that can be covered for photos.
If you bring something in that's not allowed or not approved you will be politely required to leave, stow the offending item in your vehicle/hotel room/etc, and then return. If you have any doubt as to whether your prop weapon falls under these restrictions - it probably does. Err on the side of caution!
PEACE BONDING LOCATION
The costume weapons check booth has been be at the Info desk on the 4th floor in the past, if this changes for 2013 then this post will be updated with the new location.
If the pattern from 2012 continues then the Security Team will be going through the outside line before the center opens, so if your early you won't have to worry about not being able to go somewhere right away.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND IF GOING IN COSTUME:
*See weapons policy and peace bonding sections above for prop weapons (this really can't be stressed enough!)
*You will want to wear comfortable shoes. Shoes are required at all times anyways. Even if they do not match this is a HUGE deal. If you don't think you can walk all day in them, then don't do it.
*You will most likely get stopped for photos (especially if your costume is good). If you don't feel like it then simply tell the person that you are not doing pictures right now but to come find you later, the main thing is to be polite. Keep in mind also that some people are fans of "ninja photos", they walk by and nonchalantly snap a photo of you while you are simply standing there or eating, or...anything really. Once again be polite and sometimes you may even offer to take a nice photo for them (without your mouth full of food!).
*When taking pictures try to move out of the crowd and off to the side where there is less traffic (I am sure the person wanting the picture will also understand).
*The convention center will be hot. Keep this in mind especially for costumes with layers. Fake layers (fake collars, half sleeves that are sewn into a shirt to make it look like layers etc.) are all neat tricks to saving you from sweating like crazy.
*Weight of a costume can be a big issue. Think about it practically. If you can't carry the weight of a costume on you for the time that you will be in the center then don't wear it. Try to lighten up the load with hollow structures and the like. Remember that costumes don't always have to be the exact proportions of the original to look good.
*Costume size can also be a problem. Keep in mind that you will be wearing this into a convention center full of tons of people. No one wants to get smacked in the face by your giant Jesse from Pokemon wig or by your Final Fantasy bigger than a person sword.
*Swag is a very common thing, try to have a plan of where you will keep all your awesome shirts, buttons, magnets, games, etc. Matching bags are always a popular option. Having a buddy to help carry your stuff is also another option. Please note, there is no coat check or spare room to keep stuff in for attendees. It all depends on personal preference but is something to keep in mind.
*Freshness can be a little lacking by the third day of being in costume (this is not meant to offend anyone but this should be addressed). Try to change at least any underlayers to your costume everyday. If this can't happen then try to hang up the costume in your room for the night so that it can at least air out (febreeze isn't a bad option either). Wear deodorant and any other freshening toiletries that you prefer and shower each day to keep yourself and your costume nice and fresh.
*Finally, it is a good idea to carry a few safety pins (or your costume equivalent) with you to make on the fly repairs while at the convention center. Accidents happen, especially the more people you add to a situation. It would be a shame for someone to step on the hem of Kaylee's Fluffy Layer Cake Dress and have it rip and leave you exposed.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
GROUPS:
If you have a group page that you would like to have posted here then please PM me!
Keep in mind that most groups make a Facebook page to connect and organize through since things can get lost easily on this thread.
Mass Effect
(This is a closed Facebook group, if you would like membership then please make sure that you either message me (arwen_doll16_LOTR) here on the PA forums, or make your albums with your Mass Effect costume progress public so that an admin will approve you.)
Team Fortress 2
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
GROUP MEETUP TIMES AND LOCATIONS:
Assassin's Creed Universe - August 30th @ 1500 - Area 3 (The Bell) in Freeway Park https://www.facebook.com/events/527927760578672/
Full info can also be found on page 10 of this thread (scroll to see the post by PlanetsideCosplay
Mass Effect Universe- August 31st @1800 - Freeway Park (multiple locations)- will be meeting at 1700 on 7th and Pike to allow group to meet and others who want pics to follow.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CONTESTS:
TBA
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I HAVE MADE ANOTHER THREAD FOR SHARING/ASKING FOR COSPLAY PICTURES!!!
Please use it instead of this thread for such purposes! I love you all and thank you!!
http://forums.penny-arcade.com/discussion/182579/cosplay-picture-sharing#latest
I should go.
arwen_doll16_LOTR on
+1
Posts
There will be a booth of some sort where people can check their cosplay weapons and the Security Management Team will rove the opening lines to avoid delays.
itweet
"Fantasy football still counts as fantasy." -DnD Greg
http://www.instructables.com/id/Creating-Costume-Armor-with-Wonderflex/
This is the greatest treasure trove of information ever for creating costume armor. Dare I say, this shit should be stickied into the OP.
Photo reference: http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20081012182541/silent/images/e/e8/Asphyxia_final.jpg
other cosplay possibilities:
Verdandi from Atlantica Online
Tira from Soul Calibur III
Viola from Eternal Sonata
Mileena from Mortal Kombat 9
Flame Atronach from Skyrim
Skyrim - Flame Atronach & Female Daedric
Mass Effect 3 - Jack
The Mass Effect Cosplay group is amazing. They helped me a lot with my FemShep dress this yeah
Pax Attendee/Enforcer:
Prime - '11 Attendee, '12 Enforcer, '13 Enforcer
East - '12 Attendee, '15 Enforcer
Awesome thanks!
Skyrim - Flame Atronach & Female Daedric
Mass Effect 3 - Jack
Saree
War Priest
PAX Prime 2013 (Bollywood Black Mage)
PAX Prime 2014 (Renaissance Lady Link)
One thing I am building for my green tunic link is the iron boots. So far the build has gone quite smooth. I might try to build the clawshot after I'm done with finals this semester.
I disagree entirely; the Pax12 swag is legit
<+Ravenger> you are talking to me
<@heels> oh god, what am i doing
Erm.... I am going to guess mispost?
Going to be working with wonderflex, and figured I'd reach out - anyone have a lot of experience with it? Know a good vendor??? Thanks!
In fact, her very first tutorial video on her site is about wonderflex! Just make sure you have the closed captioning on since she speaks primarily German.
Sasha seems like he'd be pretty easy to throw together, but I'm wondering about Milla's hair. It is pretty huge after all, and really a pretty key part of her character silhouette, so I wouldn't really be happy with just a long brown wig. Any ideas for getting something that full-looking without combining like 10 wigs?
I would also suggest doing some research on how to work with the wigs (styling, cutting, shaping, and making them keep their shape). My final tip is to order nice wigs that work with heat and product well. If you go cheap on your wigs then they will easily fall apart or frizz past the point of no return causing LOADS of frustration.
There was also a Ms. Pauling last year, too, and she was basically the only person at the whole con to recognize me and actually care. The only other person who wanted my picture thought I was Betty Rubble. T-T
Cosplay people, if a group wanted to organize an IP-specific photo shoot/op/whatever, would they make their own thread for that? How do people organize those?
- Re-do the hair for C. Viper so it doesn't look like a neon wig and actually looks like my hair. Also, new shoes that aren't death.
- Bayonetta needs some extreme cushioning in the shoes - I had to take this costume off by 1:00 because my feet hurt so much. Shortening the chains hanging from my elbows did improve my ability to move around without having my husband need to de-tangle me every 30 seconds.
- I might actually attempt a bald cap for Dhalsim. My fear before was that my hair wouldn't fit under a bald cap, but in October I went as Voldemort to a costume party, and it worked out really well, so we'll see. The application time sucks, though.
As far as a new costume goes, the tentative plan is to somehow put together a Skarlet (Mortal Kombat) costume.
I'll also be putting together an Oola (Star Wars) costume to be in a friend's wedding in June, so I might wear that.
If you are thinking of organizing a TF2 costume group then most groups make a Facebook page where everyone can connect and plan. Through the FB page you could then discuss with the group things like photo shoot times and locations and who does what etc. If you do that then just PM me the facebook group url and any info you would like and I can add it to the main post for this thread to help advertise for it.
Same goes for any group, if you want me to add it to the main post then simply PM me and I will put up the info!
Also, rubber training knives like this one?
If you had it in a bright color it would probably be allowed with the caveat that it may be disallowed at the show itself if the color is to dark. If you go with something bright you should have no problem.
Thank you for asking well in advance.
tl:dr Blue gun out, brightly colored version probably ok
I also thought about doing a casual Shepard. I have one of the N7 hoodies, so maybe the collector's edition outfit. I guess I could do a Kelly Chambers too, but I couldn't work a sewing machine if I tried.
If anyone has more redhead ideas (that aren't anime) let me know!
PAX Prime Attendee: '10, '12, '13, '14
Prime 2015 Cosplay: Hilda, Female Sunset City Hero, Squirtle Squad url="http://www.facebook.com/steleus"]X[/url
I'd love to get a bioshock infinite group together! i'm going as Elizabeth probably every day (I have the library dress and the blue dress) and the BF will probably be Booker. I plan being there the whole weekend.