Cosplay propmaking

Do you or someone you know enjoy dressing up? Whether it is for a Sci-Fi convention, a historical re-enactment, a local theatre production or just a fancy dress party, you could be creating your own costume or prop whilst putting your own stamp on the design.

Hats, headdresses, masks, armour and hand held props will be explored using a variety of techniques. You will explore modelling techniques, casting, and fabric manipulatio...

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Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.

  • Start Date: 16 Apr 2027
    End Date: 21 May 2027
    Fri (Daytime): 10:30 - 16:30
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
    Course Code: VU601
    Full fee £499.00 Senior fee £399.00 Concession £324.00
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Book your place
In stock
SKU
248631
Full fee £499.00 Senior fee £399.00 Concession £324.00

What is the course about?

- Creating costume accessories and small props for Cosplay events.
- Learning making techniques.
- Recreating outcomes from photos.

What will we cover?

- Modelling in clay and other pliable materials.
- Mould making and casting.
- Life casting
- Large scale work.
- Paint effects and finishes.
- Contextual research.
- Simple stitching techniques.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Sculpt models in clay, Styrofoam, and more.
- Cast models in plaster, Alginate or Silicone Rubber.
- Stitch basic templates together.
- Learn the basic principles of making hats, headdresses, masks and small props.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is a beginner's course, so no previous experience is necessary. Although those with some experience are also welcome to join.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will be introduced to new materials and techniques at each session, and encouraged to develop these to the best of your ability. You will be taught by demonstration followed by practical application, and given short tasks to follow. We understand that you might be more comfortable with some processes than others, but encourage you to have an open mind in order to experience all techniques, and therefore gain the most from this course. You will receive one-to-one guidance and there will also be group discussions. We also encourage independent research and investigation outside of the class, but this is not compulsory. You will be shown examples of work from current practitioners, and you will receive information about further progression routes available.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Materials and Equipment

Basic materials are supplied, although you may be asked to bring in images and/or objects to support various tasks. If you get particularly enthusiastic about a certain process, you might want to buy further materials. In this case you will get advice from the tutor in class.

Please bring a sketchbook, pencils, and a pen for sketching and note-taking. A camera or smartphone is also useful for documenting your work in progress.

What to Wear
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes - no sandals or open-toed footwear. Wearing old clothes or overalls is strongly recommended, as some materials may stain or damage fabric.

Health and Safety
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided and must be worn where required. This includes items such as facemasks when working with materials that may release airborne particles.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

The City Lit sculpture department offers a wide range of exciting courses that will allow you to progress from beginner to advanced and learn a range of techniques. After this course, you may wish to join a similar course to develop your skills further or try something completely different. We offer courses in prop making, metal, clay, carving in stone and wood, mould making and casting, and much more! Alternatively, you may wish to progress onto the year-long City Lit Sculpture course VU841, which helps you build your individual sculpture practice.

Please ask your tutor for advice, browse the City Lit website for inspiration, or contact our visual arts team by emailing visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or calling 0203 880 2415 Monday - Friday, 11 am - 4 pm.

We’re sorry. We don’t have a bio ready for the tutor of this class at the moment, but we’re working on it! Watch this space.