Annye Driscoll, known on the internet as Maker Fishmeal, is a writer, teacher, and very slow crafter. They’re the author of The Ultimate Glue Guide, Finish Your Cosplay!, and Ultimate Encyclopedia of Fabrics and Unconventional Materials. They’ve taught at Cosplay America, Gen Con, the University of Virginia, and more, and are a repeat finalist for the Riot Games Summer Finals contest.
First time foamsmithing: Make a mini shield!
Let’s make a mini shield! Choose from one of several pre-made patterns, flex your creative muscles to make your own, or bring your own reference. We’ll cover the entire “foamsmithing” process, and you’ll leave ready to make your own props!
Arrive knowing nothing, and leave a foamsmith guru! We’ll cover the entire crafting process to make adorable mini shields ready for paint, which can be decor, toys, or costume pieces.
In first time foamsmithing we’ll cover:
– Basic patterning; customizing designs
– Marking and cutting foam
– Detailing
– Heat-shaping and sealing foam
This class is perfect for beginner cosplayers or for makers who want to expand their craft into working with EVA foam. You can make anything with EVA foam – let’s learn how!
Class Times/Dates:
Friday Oct 30 1-3pm
Save the shoes! How to pattern complex shapes for armor
Tired of buying new footwear for every project? Learn how to save the shoes! This class, where you’ll make shoe-covers specifically for YOUR shoes, is an introduction to patterning for cosplay, with a focus on weird shapes and wonky designs.
In Save the shoes!, students will begin with a “naked” shoe and leave with a fully-customized pattern. You’ll learn how to:
– use the tape and cling film method on smaller, complex shapes (shoes!)
– visualize and then mark pattern and style lines when using said method
– translate that work into a reusable pattern
Save the shoes is great for beginner or intermediate foamsmiths who are interested in making their own custom pieces. Overwhelmed by weird designs or strange shapes? Interested in a thriftier form of boot-making? This is the class for you!
Class Times/Dates:
Saturday Oct 31 12-2pm
First time foamsmithing: Make a can cozy of your choice!
For those ready to dip their toes into crafting with EVA (puzzle piece floor mat) foam, let’s make cute crafty can cozy! Choose from a mini stein, a lettered darling, or… design your own!
Foamsmithing is great for costume and armor-making, Halloween, decor, and even for adding to sewn creations. In this class, you’ll learn the entire foamsmithing process, including special techniques to make your foam look like wood and metal. Let’s make something CUTE!
In First time foamsmithing, students will be introduced to the art of creating with EVA foam. Since it’s lightweight, costumers use this material to create armor, props, and accessories. It’s also economical and easy to create with, so it’s a great way to get into cosplay!
Students will learn how to use an EVA foam pattern, how to cut and detail foam, how to adhere it, and how to seal it. They will start with plain sheets of foam and end with constructed cozies that are ready to paint – detailed and customized to their heart’s content!
All skills used in this class are very easily translated to costume-specific craft… and the cozy itself can be used as an accessory!
Class Times/Dates:
Saturday Oct 31 2:30-4:30pm
