Magpi's Nest

Progress post- Ashe, ALMOST THERE!!

2008-01-31T04:35:06Z

Guess what i am wearing as i type this... almost ALL of my Ashe cosplay! I'm really tempted to take "myspace style" pics again but this weekend i should have the whole thing done! I just need to finish the skirt, which i ended up having to re-do because the color was wayyy off from the shoe paint. No worries though. the first skirt i made had "no bending room". I added a little length in the back and hopefully it will do the trick!
I have added Velcro EVERYWHERE! I've never used so much Velcro in my life! I also need to paint the design on the flaps of the shirt, then i am FINISHED!!
I'm so excited to have this so close to finished!!

As promised, i have pics of the shoe process! Leather paint is expensive but definatly worth the results!

As previously posted, these are the boots i started off with.

after applying the "primer" it literally all peeled off, so now i am really wondering how necessary it really is, i've yet to test it. I had to apply several coats because the boots were so dark and i only painted most of the bottom half since the top was going to be covered always (so not to use up the paint needlessly since the bottle is TINY)

Coming out beautifully!

These pieces were to go around the ankle area.Here they are shown, painted with the spray paint i used on almost everything. I ended up touching the whole thing up with a gold acrylic paint after the boots were finished. This came in handy because i can take the acrylic with me to cons, instead of worrying about a can of spray paint!

After painting, i sprayed the soles gold, and then touched up the edges.

The finished product! Almost... the blue "bells" have the gold design now, and the gold around the bottom goes under the ankle pieces in case the detach.

And armor pieces!

About 20 armor pieces... the silver ones are for a different cosplay.

A closeup of the leg armor with the knee pieces detached. I'll have better pictures of the whole thing over the weekend now that they are done.

So hopefully, at some point this weekend, I'll have pics of the entire thing completed!!

Progress Post - Shoes and corset

2008-01-17T20:41:12Z

Yeah, Ashe has a corset... that made me giggle a bit. They seem to be a trend in my cosplays.

It reminds me of BATMAN!!

With all the points on it, i decided not to hem the outline and lose detail. I used a sharpie and colored the white outline from where its cut, so you cant notice it. of course i signed it! I was tempted to draw a design :P

Then i added the buckle. I had a left over white buckle that i sprayed gold.

I have a change in plans for the shoes. I'm going with boots. Mainly because i KILL my feet at every convention and i can do more of what i want with the boots than i could with the shoes. I'll probably add attachments to the old shoes and wear them to the swimsuit gathering so i dont waste them :D

I bought "Deep Pink" leather paint from cosplaysupplies.com (should be coming soon) to paint them pink! They are PEEEERFECT! From heel to toe!! <3 THANK YOU SHILO for finding them! The painting process will be another post once i get the paint.

These are those things that wrap around her shins. finished with grommets and all!

The bell shaped things below her knees. I just need to add the gold and they are done!

Progress Post - Treaty Blade Update

2008-01-17T20:29:16Z

Anime Boston is almost exactly 2 months away. I have been very busy with work, injuries (cosplay related) and sickness that its taken me a while to update here. My apology! I am going to make 2 separate posts for Ashe, mainly because they are going to be image heavy and i don't want to kill anyone's computer :D The first (this one) will be about the treaty blade and the second will be for random peices of the cosplay i've finished or nearly close to finishing!

My treaty blade is almost complete! Last time i left you, it was a rough view of the sword after being hacked out of the pink insulation foam. Its current status is carved, sanded and sealed! The next step (after adding a few details) is to take it down to my dads to be resined, sanded and painted! That shall be done within the next 2 weeks.

Full View!

A Close up of the bottom of the blade.

The Center. These crevices were a bitch.

THESE were what i were carving out when i sliced my finger off. Unlike the rest of the sword, which is carved from one piece, these were carved separately and glued on.

NOW to seal it! This primer was about $7 at Lowes.

AFTER THE PAINT!

Beautiful and smooth!

Here, i was trying to add details to the center piece so i decided to use clay. It was very easy to mold......... (see next image)

but unfortunately i used to much water to help with the smoothing and it cracked and broke easily. I may end up going with craft foam as originally planned :(

All in all it is coming out very well. The raised detail in the center is (as i planned) the most difficult part to figure out. There really are alot of details in it but i ended up designing it a little different to keep it realistic to my skill.

Progress Post - Howl and Sophie's Wigs and GRANDMA COSPLAY!!

2007-12-12T05:28:18Z

Sophie has 4 hairstyles:
- A long brown braid, she has in the beginning of the movie with her green dress.
- A short grey "curved" braid she has when she is turned old, worn first with the green dress then majorily with the blue dress the rest of the movie.
- A long grey braid when she is young but still cursed, worn with the blue dress.
- Short grey hair, at the end of the movie, worn with the blue dress, and the yellow dress at the very end.

Sophie's Short Wig
In a panic over the weekend, after finding out my long white wig was not going to be in the following weekend, Shilo and I headed to the Garment District to see what kind of selection they had for a temporary wig. Not much of one... but i found out some interesting info. The GODIVA wig, sold on cosworx can be purchased there, and i believe it is cheaper. The downside is, you dont get the obvious selection of colors as you would online, but if you need a blonde or black wig, you are in luck!
Now back on track! After bugging the hell out of the poor kid working there, i finally settled on an imperfect wig i could "make due" with, by trying some hair color spray on it. The price of it made me confident to play around with ($15 thank you very much!) and to my excitement, i made the imperfect wig into PERFECT!
I got this wig:

After getting it home, I played with it and decided to just remove the black wefts instead of spraying it all white. Unfortunately it did make the wig thinner, but after styling and spraying it to hell, the thin spots have been covered and you would never even know! I ended up finding silver hair spray at Spencer's to make it look more greyish, but not make it lose its white glow.

And of course, trying it on was fun! I actually like grey hair :P

Shilo bought two wigs for Howl, i need to work on them. The black one is in good condition but the blonde one had these weird creases in the top. I am trying to relax them with water but i might end up using some sort or spray in the end to keep it down.

Now i mentioned in a previous post that Sophie has 3 hairstyles, i lied sorta. Old grandma Sophie's hair was out of the question because it was silly for me to throw on a wig and say i was grandma Sophie. BUT i have a solution to that! My very own Nana is willing to cosplay. YES MY NANA IS GOING TO COSPLAY!! This is going to be the coolest thing ever :D
When i make the blue dress, i decided not to take in the waist so the both of us can wear it. This works out because alot of the times when Sophie wears the blue dress, she is wearing an apron. Thus relieving the need to tighten the waist! I AM GENIUS!

Progress Post - Howl and Sophie... almost done?

2007-11-30T23:51:38Z

Sophie's dress is 90% done. I just have to add the collar, hem the bottom and the sleeves, then decide on what I'll do about the waistline. I ordered a lily enchantment wig http://www.amphigory.com/wigs_enchantment.html for her silver braid. I'm still looking for a long brown wig, thats not too expensive, for her brown braid. Unfortunately the wig i ordered may not be here until after the Skating event, so I'll be looking for silver hairspray and just be short haired Sophie. Luckily, she's got 3 styles i have to work with :D

Last night I stopped off at walmart and got some fabric in the correct colors for Howl's Jacket. I got the dark pink for the lining cut out and the blue for the back done. I just need to cut out the triangles, arms and collar then start sewing! I plan on this being done by the end of this weekend!

Progress Post - TREATY BLADE!!!

2007-11-30T16:41:19Z

As mentioned in my personal journal, my dad brought over some pink insulation foam for some props i am going to be making. Please note... this is my very first attempt in prop making (not including the fail papermache dagger in 2005 :/) Thanks to 4chan drama, a tutorial on how to make keyblades was brought up, and i decided to put that method into making other things. After reading it, it seemed very easy and at first i had no intention to be making the treaty blade but i decided otherwise.
Also planned to use this method on: Rikku's Daggers and Teresa's Claymore

So pretty much, its a simple process. You carve out the design on the insulation foam. Layer it with a papermache coating. Paint on resin. Sand down. Then Paint the desired colors.

I have been afraid to use resin, this is one of the main reasons why i was always deterred from making props, but silly me... my dads a contractor and it never occurred to me to ask him for help :P After i get the whole thing carved out, I'll be bringing it to his house where he'll be showing me how to use it.

The Insulation foam... it came in 8 ft long sheets. We cut them in half before working on them.

From the Blade held by Ashe's figurine, I took measurements and drew them out on graph paper.
(this took about 2 hours)

I then, using masking tape and a ruler, drew out graph lines on the insulation. Then copied the sketch to the board.
(this process took me about 3 hours)

Then i cut the outline of the blade. This is very messy...

My floor after cutting just the outline :/
TIP: Keep a vacuum handy at all times. The pieces attach to everything with static. I decided do intervals of cutting and vacuuming so not to tract foam all over the house.

This picture does it no justice because of the glare but last night I cut out the center holes and started forming the blade points. This, I think will be the most tedious and messy part of all.
(one side of the bottom of the blade took me about an hour :/ )

Tonight I plan on working on most of the blade points. If i can get them to photograph well, later when i am less rushed, I'll post them.

Progress Post- Sophie Dress Pattern

2007-11-23T16:55:01Z

Original Post

While browsing Cosplay.com's forums, I took some advice from an old post and purchased a McCall Pattern for a dress similar to Sophie's.
http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M9423.htm

It was reasonably cheaper than buying it from Walmart, which surprised me.
So yeah, i am cutting out pieces as we speak. Figured I'd update so i wouldn't forget to :P After i cut out the pieces, i'll be taking apart an old lab coat to make my own pattern for Howl's Jacket since I'm too cheap to buy another pattern, since i have other means to make it.

For those of you who don't know this, I absolutely hate using patterns and this fact drives Nana NUTTY!

Anyhoo, if anyone is in need of a pattern for an apron, or bonnet or even this dress (after I'm finished) you can have it :P

Progress Post- Haircut and Armbands!!

2007-11-20T02:47:52Z

I GOT A HAIRCUT!! I cut about 12 inches off o_O;; But i sooo love it!
I really despise taking pictures of myself in a mirror, but my photographer isn't around so i had to make due :P

Again, I apologize for the crappy quality. My hair is also winging out a bit, its been a long day. It looks great when it is properly styled! I got it done on Friday and was so happy with how it came out, I had to go back to work just to show everyone :P I have been talking about doing it for so long that I'm sure everyone really didn't think I'd do it. I've been growing it for about 3 years, but you know what... i don't really miss it now that i've done it ^^

Somewhat of a closeup of my armbands. I promise better pics of this later :P It kind of annoys me that just about every costume I've done, has had armbands. What annoys me more is the fact that because of that, I still haven't perfected the art of threading an elastic through the material yet. I hate elastic!! >:O

Progress Post - Ashe skirt/bracers

2007-11-14T05:04:43Z

Original Post

Well... here it is!! You have no idea how much I've been obsessing over this! It's been pretty hard to keep it under wraps for as long as i did! My kitchen has fallen victim to the cosplay battle (some of you may remember this image of my bedroom after a cosplay incident.) Luckily, I've broken this down into several pieces so not to get myself overwhelmed by doing everything at once as i normally do.

My workspace right now basically consists of a stack of newspapers in the middle of the floor. Right now I'm working on the shoes. Unfortunately, i could not find the style shoe with the correct square heel, so i settled with a thin heel and they were also silver to begin with (seen in the pic they have since been sprayed and the bridge covered with tape). They have a clear plastic piece that goes across the bridge of the foot, to hold my feet into her gravity defying shoes. I'll be adding pieces made of craft foam to the top and around the ankle.

TIP: Heating craft foam lightly with a heat gun makes it malleable and stay in place when folds or bends are needed. (caution: supposedly foam is a carcinogen so do this in a ventilated area or while using a mask)

So far, my bracers are done. I'll get better pics later, I've put a layer of acrylic sealer on them and they are still drying.

And for the final picture... THE SKIRT! I promise i'll have petter picture later. This skirt is so revealing x_O;;;;; I plan to buy these panties, cheerleaders call "lollipops." They aren't supposed to ride so they will be comfy and are kind of meant to be seen, in case of wardrobe malfunction. Luckily they come in hot pink, so 'll be ordering them soon :P
I have not added the belt loops yet. I'm still looking for a belt before I do them so i don't have to alter it.

Well thats all for tonight!

FF12 - Ashe

2007-11-14T04:35:52Z

Project -Ashelia B'nargin Dalmasca
Completion - 5% Some armor pieces done
Planned for - AB08
Notes: A ton of work is going into this cosplay. I am very excited for this!

Since I posted so many reference pictures, I'd rather not let this post get too overwhelming. Under this next cut, I'll just update with pics of completion pictures of parts of the costume.

Progress Post - White Mage Tiara

2007-11-14T03:59:58Z

Original Post

Well as mentioned before, I had purchased the tiara and painted 3 of the jewels red with glass paint. So as promised, pictures!!

Pirate Princess... looking sweet :D

So for the final count, I just need shoes and a slip for this to be complete!

magpi_creations @ 2007-11-10T11:25:00

2007-11-10T16:37:26Z

Hello!! Long time no update! I am sitting here at shilo's house right now and i decided to make the announcement official here. The secret cosplay i spoke about earlier that was causing me to put a hold on my several other projects is none other than Ashe from FF12. I am highly surprized that nobody even guessed it, given my intrest in finding a good couples cosplay. :P
Either way, I am going to be posting progress pictures very soon and will make a reference post for her.

In other news, i have purchased the tiara for the white mage gown and painted some if the jewels red with glass paint. It ended up costing about $26 including tax, bt it was well worth it, given the accuracy of the shape. I shall post pics later next week when i am home.

And lastly, i may not end up adding it here, for progress info, but i have been given a cosplay request. I may be doing Teresa from Claymore for some time at anime boston. Since most of her outfit is a bodysuit, this wont be a difficult task, unworthy of many updates itself but once completed i'll be sure to make a post.

Progress Post - White Mage Gown

2007-09-23T14:58:24Z

Original Post

For the most part, my gown is done. I added the last triangles and attached the top and bottom together, tried it on and it fits to perfection! I just need to get a slip for it and the dress is totally done.
For final touches, i need to get some accessories. I plan on getting a tiara somewhat like the one in this picture -

(thank you evilwaluigi!)

I found one at a store in downtown crossing called "So Good Jewelery" and this place has become one of my new favorite jewelery stores. Unfortunately all the tiaras they sell are decorated with all white rhinestones, but i found one in the right shape and figured i can just use red glass paint to create some rubies. They sell tiaras all year around, not seasonally like some stores, so i am in no rush to buy it.
I am also in search of a large red and white brooch to clasp the cape together.
As for shoes, I'm still deciding on that, but i have some things in mind. I'm still open for suggestions!
Well thats all for now on this creation!

Helpful Hints #1 - Spray Paints

2007-09-23T11:53:40Z

Spray Painting
I'm sure i am not the only one who has done it, be it by accident or purposely but removing spray paint form skin is not an easy task to do without irritating your skin with scrubbing. After an incident last night, i consulted the magnificent internet for tips and I'd like to share what i found to be true.
PAM... the buttery cooking spray, is an amazing thing. Spray it on the area you have gotten paint on and rub it in, as you would soap. After a little while the paint starts to literally melt off. Wash off with soap and water (i suggest dish soap since it is made to remove oil and grease) then repeat if necessary.

Another tip about spray paint. DO NOT try to collect it in a plastic cup. I tried to do so for touch ups and the bottom of the cup melted. I now have a gold ring and smear on my utility table :/ Luckily i didn't do my work on my rug today.

I hope somebody finds this useful!

Change of plans...

2007-09-20T03:49:55Z

Okay so i haven't updated in a little while, to be understood since I've had alot on my plate these past few weeks. I come bearing a big update. A few changes will be made in my creation outline, as my focus is going to go towards yet another project that will need my absolute full attention. This new "project" is actually going to be a secret. Although a few people already know what it is, I'd still like it to be a surprise (at least for some). The only hint i will give is this...

(fabric, paint and wonderflex)
An image of a few materials to be used in my latest endeavor.

With that said, here is the change in my lineup...

White Mage Gown - Almost completed - First Priority
Jirachi and Original White Mage - Planned to be completed closer to AB08 so semi on hold
ALL Rikku Versions - temporarily on hold until further notice
Pi Story - Game wasn't so great... removed.
Howl + Sophie - Due to the amount of work that is going to go into this, i wont put it as hold status.

Original posts will be edited as such. Thank you for your interest, and sorry for the future lack of updates!

Progress Post- White Mage Gown

2007-09-03T18:57:49Z

Origional Post
Last night i did alot of work on the white mage gown. I did the first hem to the bottom of the skirt and added a zipper. I also added the red triangles to the top. Either today or soon, I'll be attaching the top and skirt together and hemming it one last time so it doesnt fray on the bottom, then cutting our and adding the red triangles to the train. What i also need to purchase for this is a slip, which I'll probably purchase a little closer to the actual date i'll be wearing it.
Thank you shilo for the pics!

CLOVER - Suu

2007-08-28T00:37:05Z

Project 7 - Suu
Completion - 0%
Planned for - no idea
Notes: This is one of my "long term" projects, mainly because i want her wings to be amazingly perfect and done by myself so its going to take time and patience. I'll finish it evertually.

FFx-II Rikku Costumes (on hold until further notice)

2007-08-28T00:36:12Z

Project 6 - White Mage Rikku
Completion - 0%
Planned for - ON HOLD
Notes: Theoretically i'd like to do all of Rikku's outfits but this will be the first.

White Mage Gown - Original concept

2007-08-28T00:35:37Z

Project 5 - White Mage Gown (original Concept)
Completion - 90% Dress complete. Need to buy a slip, various accessories and shoes.
Planned for - AB08 "Cherry Blossom Ball"
Notes: This is the first dress I've made. It is being done with literally no pattern and my old prom dress as a reference for the bottom half (with many alterations).

Concept Sketch

Progress @ 8.29.07

Reference for Tiara.

Tiara added 11.13.07

White Mage

2007-08-28T00:35:10Z

Project 4 -White Mage
Completion - 1% some fabric bought
Planned for - AB08
Notes: This is probably going to be the easiest cosplay i've ever done.

Jirachi

2007-08-28T00:34:44Z

Project 3 - "Anthro" Jirachi
Completion - 10% Hat is made sans the tassles. Neet to Purchase a full body suit and make alterations.
Planned for - AB08
Notes: I dont plan on doing a huge plushie pokemon cosplay, thats why i'm calling it "anthro" jirachi.

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Howl and Sophie

2007-08-28T00:34:13Z

Project 2 - Howl and Sophie
Completion - 5% Fabrics bought and Calcifer is completed :D
Planned for - AB08
Notes: This one will be worn by both me and Shilo. We will also have Turnip Head and Calcifer.

FFX Rikku (on hold until further notice)

2007-08-28T00:33:43Z

Project 1 - FFX Rikku
Completion - 1% i have the fabrics
Planned for - ON HOLD
Notes: To be worn with Paige's summoner Yuna.