Cosplay Central
Whether you’re a cosplay pro or just starting out, Cosplay Central has something for you!
Cosplay Central is the area of C2E2 devoted entirely to the art of costumes, crafts, and characters. In the Cosplay Central Workshop areas, you’ll find workshops and panels where you can learn new tips, brush up on techniques, and meet fellow cosplayers. In case you’re in need of some cosplay repair or a quick change, Cosplay Central comes fully equipped with a repair station and changing area. When you’re ready to strut your stuff, we also have fun photo backdrops so you can take an awesome photo solo or with your squad.
What’s Happening In Cosplay Central?
Cosplay Central Crown Championships at C2E2
The Cosplay Central Crown Championships is a spectacular competition of the best cosplay in the world. This year the global finals will be held right here at C2E2!
We will choose one last regional winner, who will compete against the cosplayers selected at Florida Supercon, New York Comic Con and Emerald City Comic Con, and decide the overall US Champion for 2024 who will go head-to-head with the international finalists later in the global final.
Applications to take part in the regional qualifier at C2E2 will be open from February 5, 2024, until March 15th, 2024, at 5:00PM EST. Make sure to carefully read the rules before applying.
Come root for your favorite local, national, and international Champion on Saturday in the Main Stage!
Yaya Han
Cosplay Guest of Honor & Crown Championships Co-Host
World renowned cosplayer, designer and author Yaya Han needs no introduction for cosplay fans. The undisputed empress of cosplay is coming to Chicago to be part of Cosplay Central this April!
Yaya will have panels, meet and greets at her Cosplay Central booth and will be Co-Hosting the Final of the 2024 Cosplay Central Crown Championships. Check out her schedule soon for more details about how you can learn from a true cosplay legend!
Meet Your Cosplay Crown Championship Judges
Dessi-Desu
Dessi-Desu is a cosplayer, costume designer, and illustrator with over 20 years of experience crafting and wearing her cosplay creations. Her cosplay journey started in 2002, when she discovered cosplay on a Sailor Moon fansite. She infuses her love for art and design into cosplay, and has made a number of costumes based on her own designs, along with canon costume projects. Dessi-Desu has drawn designs inspired by a number of beloved characters for other cosplayers in the community to enjoy and bring to life. She also loves sharing her crafting knowledge with the cosplay community, and is currently a BERNINA and bernette sewing machine brand ambassador. For Dessi-Desu, cosplay has been an ongoing journey in learning and acquiring new skills, so when she isn't drawing or sewing, she is always on the lookout for the next cosplay project with new and interesting challenges.
https://www.instagram.com/dessi_desu/
https://www.facebook.com/dessi.desu/
https://dessidesudesign.com/
Nerds Gone Mild Cosplay
Nerds Gone Mild Cosplay is an award-winning cosplayer, panelist, judge, and the 2023 Crown Champion of Cosplay. Steph specializes in multimedia cosplays, featuring works that include foam armor, sewing, 3D modeling and printing, sculpting and casting, and natural fiber manipulation. She is passionate about keeping the "PLAY" in cosplay at the forefront, building an inclusive community, and sharing ideas and resources with her fellow makers.
Sameer Tikka Masala
Sameer is a filmmaker and multidisciplinary artist who has been cosplaying for over 12 years. With over 30 awards, nationally and internationally, he represented India in the Crown Championships of Cosplay twice and has given a TED talk on the subject. Since 2016 he has worked in the film, television and event industry, designing and making costumes, props and sets, using the knowledge gained through years of cosplaying. He is deeply passionate about cosplay and has been actively working to promote it in India through workshops and talks.
Cosplay Showcase
The Cosplay Showcase is where fans and cosplayers can showcase their craftsmanship in style. Taking place on Sunday, this event is open to all cosplayers and is an opportunity for fans of all levels to strut their stuff on the main stage.
Register at the Cosplay Central administration desk during the show. There are prizes (for over 18s only) but cosplayers are free to take part just for fun if they do not wish to be judged. Family Groups and Juniors (13-17) are also welcome to take part just for fun with any costume.
Cosplay Central Meetups
We are expanding our roster of Meetups this year, so come join us and make some new friends along the way! Meetups will be taking place within Cosplay Central Our Meetups offer a chance to connect with fellow fans and creators alike. Some come join us for networking opportunities, and a chance to celebrate all things pop culture. See you there!
Cosplay Central Workshops
Discover your creative side at C2E2's Make and Take workshops! Make sure to register for workshops so you can dive into hands-on activities led by skilled crafters, and learn new techniques to unleash your imagination. From prop-making to DIY costume accessories, these workshops offer a chance to bring your favorite fandoms to life in a fun and interactive way. Don't miss out on this opportunity to craft something special to take home with you! Check out our workshop presenters below!
Sponsored by
Perler Tricks Representing Worbla
C2E2 is excited to team up with PerlerTricks to bring hands-on cosplay workshops to Cosplay Central. Whether you are a seasoned maker or new to costuming, check out our instructor-led, make-and-take workshops. Workshops are free to attendees, but are limited to 20 students per session. Be sure to register early to secure your spot!
Worbla, the premier cosplay thermoplastic, invites you to get acquainted with their products at their first-ever Cosplay Central booth. Stop by and see Worbla costumes and props, check out the full line of Worbla products, and even create your very own free Worbla make-n-take craft.
Registration for Perler Tricks Workshops are now live!
Friday April 26, 2024 at 5:15pm | Cel Shaded Work Aprons Make and Take Workshop
Saturday April 27, 2024 at 1:45pm | Sculpted Worbla Feathers Make and Take Workshop
Sunday April 28, 2024 at 11:00am | Leather-look EVA Foam pouch Make and Take Workshop
Evil Ted
Evil Ted worked in the movie industry doing visual effects, prop, and model making for 30 years. He worked on films and television shows such as Fifth Element, Guyver, Titanic, Hunger Games, Xena Warrior Princess, and Criminal Minds. He’s known around the world for his YouTube tutorials teaching cosplayers how to make foam armor and props.
After many years of working in Hollywood, Evil Ted decided it was time to take all the tips and tricks he learned over the years and make them available to the everyday builder. He wants to take the intimidation out of building. He is a firm believer that it’s passion over talent, and that anyone can learn to build. He loves cosplay and the community and loves supporting and assisting new builders in the learning process.
Tickets for Evil Ted’s Workshops are now live!
Evil Ted Foam Helmet Workshop | Friday 11:15am
Evil Ted Foam Shoulder Armor Workshop | Friday 3:45pm
Evil Ted Foam Helmet Workshop | Saturday 10:45am
Evil Ted Foam Shoulder Armor Workshop | Saturday 4:45pm
Evil Ted Foam Helmet Workshop | Sunday 12:30pm
Evil Ted Foam Shoulder Armor Workshop | Sunday 2:00pm
How to Register for your Cosplay Central Make and Take Workshop
*Please note workshops presented by Perler Tricks are free to attend and workshops presented by Evil Ted have a $20 price for attendance, both require registration.
STEP 1: Look up the workshop you want to participate in, if you have to register for it there will be a disclaimer in the description and a link you need to click in order to register.
STEP 2: Click the link in the Workshop description and select the Workshop you want to register for. Select Checkout and complete your purchase.
STEP 3: You will receive a confirmation email for your Workshop purchase, save this email, you will need to show it to the Workshop instructor when you arrive for your session.
Cosplay Repair
The Theatre School at DePaul University is thrilled to be hosting the Costume, Props, Wig & Makeup Repair Booth! Their booth in Cosplay Central will have faculty, staff, and students on hand for complimentary costume, prop, wig, and makeup maintenance and repair throughout the weekend as well as hosting costume exhibitions, demos, and meet-and-greets with cosplay creators. The Theatre School is a Conservatory program in the heart of Chicago and offers nine BFA majors in Design and Technology, including Costume Design, Costume Technology, and Wig & Makeup Design & Technology.
Important Information
Costume, Weapons and Props Rules
Cosplay is a welcome and important part of our shows; however, each show also has its limitations and guidelines so that cosplay can stay safe for everyone. Click below to read the rules.
Cosplay Is Not Consent
C2E2 has a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY for harassment of any kind. Please read our full policy here.
