Always feel free to send questions my way via Formspring!

Do you make all of your costumes? 

Yes, unless I purchase something or a friend lends me a costume to use, which I specify in the construction notes.

How do you decide which costumes to make? 

It’s determined by several factors, usually a combination of liking a character’s personality and visual design. I can’t make myself put effort into making a character I dislike or don’t feel a strong connection to because it would be a venture with no passion or effort put into it. My preference usually lies in making strong females with unique or unusual designs, but I’ll often make a character whom I love over a pretty outfit that I have never seen the show of. If a costume design captures my eye though, I do a lot of research to find out the history and persona of the character, and try to embody it in costume, makeup, and attitude.

Can you help me make a costume? 

I’m unfortunately no expert in every character design, but if you have a specific question about construction or how to execute a costume piece, feel free to email me and I’ll try my best to point you in the right direction. :)

How did you make your large Alexiel wings?

They were a labor of love, taking approximately 3 months to make and trimming over 900 feathers by hand. The basic way of constructing wings (big or small) can be found on my Tutorial, but if you’d like to know how to do it with PVC plastic pipe to make them much sturdier (but probably heavier and more difficult to attach), you can read the article I wrote for CosplayGen Issue 2. Essentially, it’s making a sturdy base, the body out of something like wire or embroidery floss, polyester batting, and feathers glued on top. The harness can be made to wear like a backpack, straps across the chest under your costume, or wires inserted into the back of a corset/clincher. There’s many ways of making lovely looking wings, determination will get you a lot further than never trying at all! If you have specific questions though, I’m always happy to answer them or point you in the right direction.

How did you learn to make your outfits?

I started sewing in school at a young age in simple Home Ec. classes, and was taught further by my mother and grandmother through the basics. Everything else I learned through trial and error, such as sewing, pattern making, wings, props, jewelry making, wig styling, often with the help of internet tutorials or asking friends for advice. Trust me when I say “try try again” will get you a lot farther than never trying because you’ve not had “professional lessons” or teaching.

Can you make me _____ costume/can I purchase your costume?

I usually only have time to make my own costumes, but I do occasionally take commissions for wings or costume pieces. Contact me for a quote or availability. I sometimes sell older costumes I no longer want to wear or to make space for new ones. Check my Etsy page for sales listings.

Can I use your images for my website/blog/feature? 

Sure! Just let me know where you post them and give me credit (Etaru or Etaru.com). My images cannot be published without the permission from me or my photographers.

Can I link your site?

Of course! I have several banners to use to link back to my portfolio that are free for use, and if you want me to link back to your cosplay or costuming website, send me an email and I’ll be happy to put your link on my website.

Can you come to _____ convention?

I’m often busy with school work since I’m a full time student still, but if a convention would like to invite me as a guest, panelist, or judge, I’m always happy to consider it!