Happy new year everyone. I've decided to put a lot more effort into selling more commissions on costumes and props this year, so I've decided to post up a bit of info on it.

First of all, you can find some examples of my work either at my website [www.lauraharms.ca/cosplay] or at my Cosplay.com gallery [username: ShiroInu]. I specialize in characters from Bleach, since in my opinion those need the most help when it comes to accuracy, but I can make just about anything.

Prices for my work follow a simple guideline: $8 per metre of fabric required x $20 per clothing item + $10 for shipping. The standard fabrics I use are summer twill and Italian satin, both of which are affordable and light enough to be worn in the summer, even with multiple layers. If you require a specialty fabric [like fur or leather], the price will go up. If you're on a tight buget, I can try to find a cheaper material, and the price may drop. The per item fee covers the time it takes me to make something - usually 2-3 hours per item. If you order accessories with the costume, those are not factored into the calculation. Finally, if I need to send it to you via the mail or FedEX, a $10 shipping fee will be added. If you can pick it up in person, this fee is removed.

Negotiations can be handled either through e-mail or MSN conversations, whichever you prefer. After payment is settled [the fabric cost must be paid up front - the rest can be settled at your discretion], it generally takes me 1-2 weeks to get the fabric and make the costume. If you are a local [to Vancouver BC], then you can get the costume properly fitted free of charge before I hand it over. I will not turn over a costume until the price is paid in full.

As for props, they are priced on a case by case basis, depending on the material needed and the complexity of the prop. I generally use cardboard, craft foam and dense styrofoam to make props, but I do have experiance with woodworking. Again, if props are ordered with a costume, the per item fee is dropped.

The cut-off dates for ordering a costume is one month prior [3 weeks if you are local]. Thusly, here are some cut-oo dates for the conventions I attend:

Keikon - January 23
Sakura-con - March 13
Anime Evolution - May 15
Anime Expo - June 4
Kumoricon - August 8

If you are interested in ordering a costume/prop, or you would like to know more about my policies, please e-mail me at lauraharms@shaw.ca