Motivation: How to Get Back on Cosplay Track

Cosplaying isn't just about the magic of transformation. Behind every costume is a cosplayer's blood, sweat and tears. Not everything can be accomplished in just one try and when we cannot get anything right, we get so frustrated to the point of giving up and just not doing anything.

Getting back to the zone is not always easy and forcing yourself to do so does not always end up well. However, sometimes all we need is a little push and the right trigger to get back on track. So before rage quitting, take deep calming breaths and try if the methods I've listed below worked as well as it did for me.

Lace-Up Boot Cover Tutorial

Buying a new pair of lace-up boots just for cosplay is pricey and impractical(i don't exactly wear boots on average days) for a thrift cosplayer like me. I did consider looking into thrift stores and second-hand shops but none had lace-up boots for my Setsuka Heel cosplay so I had no other choice but to make one myself. I already had most of the raw materials lying around so the total cost in making them didn't exceed 100Php.

It was tedious and nerve-wrecking since it was my first time and I couldn't find any guide/tutorials close enough to what I wanted to do so I had to plan everything from scratch. But despite much groping in the dark, they turned up quite alright so for those who are looking into spending less and willing to slave away precious nights for it, hopefully this tutorial will provide you at least with ideas in crafting similar-type projects.

Hoshizora Rin Love Live No Brand Girls Cosplay Breakdown and Progress Shots

Not exactly a complete tutorial but made a costume breakdown of my recent Love Live cosplay. I'm still a complete amateur when it comes to the sewing department so most of them are a result of multiple trial and errors but hopefully it will inspire ideas for other cosplayers who are thinking of cosplaying the same character or something similar. 

Con Journal: Iinchou goes to Cosmania 2015

Cosplay Mania is one of the biggest cosplay convention here in the Philippines. With guests coming from different parts of the globe, it's been one of the most highly anticipated cosplay event here in the country and I finally had the chance to attend the said event for the very first time.

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.