Thrift Cosplay Tips: 10 ways to help reduce cosplay expenses

Let's face it, no matter how much you raid that closet or do everything yourself, chances are you are still gonna spend and you're going to spend a lot. Wigs, contact lenses, fabrics, tools, costume/props commissions, make up, conventions... *sigh* If you are seriously considering this hobby, please be aware of the amount of expenses that comes along with it.

However, one should never feel like they are being robbed dry just by doing something they love. Some of you are probably wondering how some cosplayers are able to afford all those cosplays. The answer might either be because they're rich and rolling in dough or they are probably just like the rest of us...but masters in the art of economizing. While I am no master myself, in order to keep up with my hobby, I've managed to teach myself ways that helped me greatly in cutting off excess cosplay expenses and listed them below.

Before proceeding into the list, please keep in mind that cosplay should never get in the way of your basic necessities. No matter how passionate you are, by the end of the day, it will still be just a hobby and it should never ruin your life. Cosplay can wait but your bill will definitely haunt you to the ends of earth. Lastly, be responsible. With that said, hope this list will help you in your future cosplay endeavors.

Cosplay and Adulthood

source: hiwamu | tumblr

I've started cosplaying about four years ago. I was just a college student back then. Being reliant on my parents financially, I didn't have much freedom to cosplay as often as I do now. I didn't want them to burden with additional expenses so I had to find other ways to afford the hobby. That's when I decided to apply as a student assistant in a university dorm, squeezing additional hours despite the busy academic schedule.

I am now an adult with a steady paying job. Between paying bills, supporting my brother's college expenses, keeping up with my social life and affording basic necessities, I still somehow manage to keep my hobby strong. Without academics to worry about, I can finally take my time to improve my costuming skills. I can now sew my own costumes, make props and go to cons as much as I can.

Seems like an age of bliss, right?

Big Hero 6 BTS Photoshoot

I've been meaning to post this on my old journal for a long time but things have been happening and now that I've officially moved my blog, I figure it's about time I post some of my personal cosplays.

Amazing cosplay MVs that will hit you right in the feels and it's gonna hurt so good

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These people just brought back characters to life on a whole new level and they are truly beautiful.

Cosplay Apps for the Cosplayer You

Boom. Cosplay.
And just like that, it has now become a really big community. Add in social media, internet and technology to the mix and BAM, you can finally get your cosplay senpai to notice you.

*Cough*
On the other hand, there are great people out there who are using these advancement to further connect our growing family and help cosplayers make their journey more fun and less the struggle because nobody should suffer while doing the things they love, right?

I just recently found out about these apps and I'm quite surprised because they're specifically catered to cosplay/ers. I just had to give it a try