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Effective January 1: Masks are Optional in VisArts’ Classrooms and Studios

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Cosplay Makerspace: Design, Build, and Transform

Instructor:

James Than
Imagine stepping into your next con wearing a costume you built yourself—every detail from the armor to the wig exactly how you pictured it. Whether you’re new to cosplay or ready to level up your costume-making skills, this hands-on course is your launchpad into the creative world of character design + fabrication. New or returning students with sewing and tool experiences can get a head start on sketching, drafting patterns, planning materials, etc. Instructor will work with you wherever you are

VisArts’ Cosplay Makerspace offers a supportive, skill-building environment for adults to explore costume construction, prop-making, and wig styling using both professional and DIY techniques. Through expert instruction and open lab time, you’ll gain the confidence to turn your cosplay visions into wearable art—whether you’re prepping for your first con or refining your next big build.

What You’ll Learn:
* Class 1: Blueprinting + Basic Tools
:

Learn how to design and draft paper patterns for both EVA foam builds and fabric-based costumes. Get comfortable with X-Acto knife safety and precision techniques for cutting foam, and explore foundational adhesives like hot glue.
* Class 2: Sewing for Cosplay
:
Introduction to sewing machine use with a focus on safety, threading, and stitch settings. Practice basic seams and hems while learning how to construct wearable costume pieces.
* Class 3: Power Tools + Finishing Work
:
Gain hands-on experience using a Dremel tool and hand saws for shaping, sanding, and finishing foam props. Learn essential safety procedures and best practices for clean cuts and smooth surfaces.
* Class 4: Concealing + Molding foam:

Explore methods for priming and sealing foam with materials like mod podge to prep for painting, using foam clay to mold and fill in gaps for foam projects. Understand the safety procedures in using the heat gun to bend and shape foam.
* Class 5: Wig Styling for Cosplay
:
Discover techniques for cutting, shaping, and styling synthetic wigs using hairdryer, hairspray, and pins to bring your character to life.
* Classes 6–8: Open Lab + Project Work
:
Use the final sessions to apply your skills to a project of your choice. Receive one-on-one guidance as you build, troubleshoot, and refine your costume, props, or accessories.
* Whether you’re reimagining an iconic character or inventing one of your own, this course gives you the tools, techniques, and community support to create cosplay you’re proud of.

Students will meet with the instructor one on one to plan out how they will work on their costume projects.

This class is for ages 14 and up.

Please use the Notes section on the registration form to list needed accommodations.

Classes require a minimum enrollment of four students. If classes must be cancelled due to low enrollment, students will be informed three days prior to the start of the class and issued a full refund.

Tickets

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Class Ticket Sales End: November 05 @ 12:00AM
$ 270.00
8 available

Details

Wednesdays
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Between
November 05 - December 17

No Class on:
Wed, Nov 26

Start
November 5

End
December 17

Time
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Cost:
$270

Venue

Classroom 4
155 Gibbs Street
Rockville, MD 20850 United States
Google Map
Medium
Fiber, Children,
Frequency
Class, Recurring,
Ages
11-13, 14-17,