Costumes on a Budget

Steamed: SteampunkFashion Show

Fall 2011

Pictorials:AbiSueKiddoNorth Carolina Cosplayers

D20 Girls Magazine is published 4 times

per year. Manufactured and published

in the United States of America. The Edi-

tor in Chief welcomes submissions from

all sources. Such submissions should be

addressed to EDITOR. D20 Girls Maga-

zine is a copyright of OGO Publications.

Products named in these pages are trade

names or trademarks of their respective

companies. The publisher shall not be re-

sponsible for slight changes or typograph-

ical errors that do not lessen the value

of the advertisement. The publisher’s li-

ability for other errors or omissions in con-

nection with an advertisement is limited

to republication of the advertisement

in any subsequent issue or the refund of

any monies paid for the advertisement.

Publisher:OGO Publications, Inc.

Editorial Staff for this issue:Abigail “AbiSue” Selvidge,

Editor-In-Chief and Graphic Designer

Contributors:Abigail “AbiSue” Selvidge

Alissa “Saki” ButzowJoana “L” Perkins

Jondi “Ruby Red” Schmitt-SoperKacey Gambrell

Laura “Cryshayn” LattermanRosalie

Synthia “Kiddo” Amend

Mail:OGO Publications

PO Box 2224Columbus, OH 43216

Offices: 1(877)646-0010Email: info@d20girls.com

Web: http://www.d20girls.com

Legal Counsel:Jessica Fallon - jfallon@splaws.com

Law Offices of Saia & Piatt, Inc713 S. Front St

Columbus, OH 43206(614)444-3036

Table of ContentsThe Power of Fandom.................................Page 4

Steamed: Steampunk Fashion Show.......Page 6

Operation: Boobies......................................Page 10

Deadly Meatballs of Deliciousness and Doom.............................Page 12

Crock Pot Pumpkin Chili...........................Page 13

“Lilith” Welcome to My Realm.................Page 14

AbiSue Cosplay Pictorial............................Page 17

Ohayocon 2011.............................................Page 20

Ask L: Questions From Our Girls.............Page 22

Kiddo Cosplay Pictorial.............................Page 23

Dragon*Con 2011.........................................Page 26

Costumes on a Budget..............................Page 30

Strong and Creative Cosplayers in North Carolina..................Page 33

QuakeCon 2011...........................................Page 38

Unconventional: The Culture of Conventions....................Page 40

Erie Days of Gaming.................................Page 42

The D20 GirlsThe D20 Girls embody Confidence,

Realiability, Intelligence, and a Strong Work Ethic. We break down stereo-types, we are NOT Barbie Dolls. We do NOT come in one shape! We do NOT come in one size. We currently have D20 Girls active in over 90% of the United States. The D20 Girls is a semi-unique business that combines Social Networking, Talent Management, and Event Services. Yes, there is a business

angle to what we do, but we push the social aspect much

needed to the industry. We arrange with vendors, artists, and con-ventions to hire D20 Girls as booth help and trade show models at gam-ing, comic book and fandom related shows across the US. Why? Our project is crucial, because the gaming industry and related fandoms should be pro-moted by girls who are actually a part of it-NOT over-paid models who know nothing about the industry, or the peo-ple who are a part of it. Sign up now, and be involved!

4

Some say home is a place where you can kick off your shoes and relax. To others, home is defined by a place where one can feel accepted, thrive, and grow. For the ultimate fans, SpoCon and other conventions and gatherings across the country provide just that.

for next year’s convention will be provided at www.spocon.org. The theme for the 2011 convention was "The Power of Fandom." As a local convention, SpoCon wouldn’t be possible without the undying sup-port of the fans, volunteers, spe-cial guests, and investors.

Because the force behind the event is concentrated in the Spokane area, the convention not only ben-efits the fans, it also gives back to the community. Books that are in high demand are donated through organizers and volunteers that partner with local schools and li-braries. They are purchased and distributed through the help of convention profits and fundraising.

Between informational panels

Power FandomBy Synthia Amend (Kiddo)

hosted by professionals, gaming tournaments, role-playing events, special guests, a costume contest and much more, the weekend's schedule was packed full of activi-ties to appeal to all types of fans and convention attendees.

Special guests hosted panels, signed autographs, and gave their fans a chance to meet them on a more personal level. Guest of honor Patricia Briggs, who is known for her best selling novels centering around her character Mercy Thompson and the Alpha and Omega series, hosted various panels regarding writing and sto-rytelling. Dragon Dronet, who has made props for such shows and movies as Star Trek: TNG, Alien: Resurrection, and Planet of the Apes, hosted several panels relat-ing to armoring and his talents in art. The work of artist Dan Dos Santos spans across several dif-ferent genres and media, and the panels that he hosted throughout the weekend reflected his experi-ences. Dos Santos has worked for many clients including Wizards of the Coast, DC Comics, Universal Studios, Penguin Books, and Disney.

Also in attendance were members of local groups and various local project chapters. Throughout the weekend, fans could meet and get

Science fiction and fantasy con-ventions are one of the rare places where in a matter of minutes, you can have conversations with Darth Maul, a Cheshire Cat, Rainbow Bright, Naruto, a Terran Marine, and a Pirate. To the average fan, it's a piece of heaven and even better than just the idea of home. Where else can hundreds of sci-fi and fantasy fans feel so welcomed and accepted?

This year's SpoCon was a three day event from August 12th through the 14th. SpoCon is Spo-kane, Washington's own sci-fi and fantasy convention where over 1,100 fans came together and shared their interests and hob-bies. The cost for a weekend pass was $35 and more information

to know members of the 501st Legion, the Browncoats, Dead Gentlemen, as well as several D20 Girls. The 501st Legion is a nation-wide charity organization that fundraises by cosplaying as Star Wars characters and making ap-pearances at places such as hospi-tals, schools, and conventions. The Browncoats are a global charity organization that raise money for the favorite charity of Firefly cre-ator Joss Whedon, which is where their name comes from. Dead Gentlemen Productions is a group of filmmakers, many of whom are from the northwest. Their more prominent projects include the web-series Gamers, the feature Gamers: Dorkness Rising, the De-mon Hunters role-playing game, and a feature based on the Demon Hunters lore.

Several Northwest D20 Girls main-tained a booth during the course of the weekend. Models Anora K., Kiddo, and Pop Tart helped host various panels as professionals on subjects like gaming, being a geek, nerd flirting, and costuming. On Saturday, the girls had a full group costume including props and a display based on Alice in Wonder-land. They had flamingo croquet mallets, a hedgehog ball, and an eclectic tea party. The rest of the weekend saw a plethora of cos-tumes and cosplay that were well received by fans and special guests alike such as a Kitsune (Naruto),

Princess Leia, Rikku (Final Fantasy X), Steampunk attire, and Pikachu.Foam darts littered the floor as gamers fell, their characters tak-ing lethal hits while dressed in clothing inspired by the Firefly universe. It was a massacre of epic proportions as participants ran to the stairwell to respawn and rejoin the action. The Firefly LARP, based on a universe creat-ed by Joss Whedon, was just one of many role-playing and gaming events that fans participated in. The role-playing events were not just limited to live action, however. Such events included Deadlands, Pathfinder, Burning Wheel, Call of Cthulu, a Vampire LARP, and Dungeons and Dragons modules, and several others throughout the course of the convention. Pas-

trailer for the upcoming movie Knights of Badassdom, which was filmed in the area, was presented with several talented locals that had the pleasure and honor of be-ing extras in the movie. Full mov-ies shown during the weekend were Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, The Dark Crystal, and Scourge of the World.

Every sci-fi and fantasy fan has their own preference and fan-doms, and finding that place where one can be accepted and loved for their interests and show off their loyalty and support as a fan is priceless. This year, that's exactly what SpoCon provided. Even if it’s just for a weekend, all you need is that sense of belonging and accep-tance, of home.

sionate gamers also participated in tour-naments throughout the weekend includ-ing but not limited to Heroclix, Pokémon, Magic the Gathering, and Warhammer 40k.

Special film presen-tations could also be found through-out the course of the convention. A new web and film proj-ect called Clockwork Infinity that involved several talented lo-cals was shown. The

Steamed:

DENVER, CO – Victorian romance met mechanical

science when TACtile Arts Center hosted the Steamed

Fashion Show on June 24th. The fashion show was

the highlight of TACtile’s Steampunk fiber arts exhibit,

running from May 5th through August 6th, showcasing

local talent in the artistry of unique jewelry, upcycled

clothing, and creative home décor.

The gala began with a meet and

greet for guests to mingle and

peruse the Steampunk exhibit.

Family members and fans of

DIY fabric craft were in for a

treat as various textiles, acces-

sories, magazines and supplies

were on sale. Acting almost as

a fashion show teaser, members

of the Colorado Steampunks

were in attendance, showing off

their own homemade finery and

supporting a cause dear to their

hearts.

Models festooned with a variety

of Victorian garments, Steam-

punk accessories, and modern

embellishments displayed the

work of local and visiting de-

signers. Some of the fashion

contributors included Teresa

Steamed:Steampunk Fashion Showby Laura “Cryshayn” LattermanPhotos by Quincy Allen

7

Stanton (visiting jewelry crafts-

woman from Illinois), Fan-

cis Roces of Kimono Dragons,

Karyn Estela and Joyce Guertin.

The winning designers of the

evening included Denver local

Jeni Mac, and Kitty Mae for her

innovative hat designs.

After the show, attendees were

treated to a special book sign-

ing by local Steampunk author

and editor Christopher Ficco

with his first installment of

Penny Dread Tales, Volume 1:

Gears, Coils, Aether & Steam.

Guests could take pictures and

hobnob with the emerging

8

author/editor, as well as the

cover artist Laura Givens. (A

great read to be later reviewed!)

TACtile is a 501(c) 3 non-

profit corporation dedicated to

inspiring growth, visibility and

creative excellence in the textile

arts. TACtile is the perfect ven-

ue for Cosplayers to hone their

skills in DIY sewing and crafts

projects. Their next themed ex-

hibit and fashion show coming

up in Fall is “Trashion: Funky

Junk” featuring wearable fiber

art from found and recycled

materials. They are currently

holding an open call for entries;

visit them at TACtileArts.org for

more information.

9

I have a confession to make. I... purposely cosplay flat chested characters!

I’m a B cup but still look like I’ve got nothin. You’ve heard of hourglass fig-

ures, right? Well I have the figure of a ruler. Perfect for Harley Quinn or Sail-

or Moon, not so much for Tsubaki from Soul Eater. I don’t have any issue

with it, really. It works for me. However, for cosplay, especially those busty

female anime characters, I feel like I need a little bit of help.

I need anime tits!

Operation: BoobiesBy Kacey Gambrell

http://pastanomicon.wordpress.com/

So I went to the Crossplay forum on Cosplay.com to seek some advice for turning my

B’s into D’s without breaking the bank. Jason Balduf, aka Merle-kun, wrote a tuto-

rial for them. His plan consisted of filling balloons with rice and wearing a demi bra

to get the right shape. Agrios suggested using pantyhose instead of balloons, and I

decided to go with that after hearing stories of the balloons bursting and rice getting

everywhere.

Artwork by Abigail Selvidge

10

One trip to walmart and fifteen dollars later, I had all I needed for the look. I got a five

pound bag of long grain rice, four of those plastic eggs with stockings, and a nude D

cup demi bra.

So, to begin, I got a cardboard box to work over so rice didn’t get everywhere. Then, a

half cup at a time, I poured rice into a stocking. A D cup is estimated as 3 cups of rice,

C is 2.5, B is 2, and A is 1.5 or just 1 cup. When i finished pouring, I tied it off and then

cut the extra stocking off. I then put the whole thing into another stocking for extra

protection. The idea of one of my boobs exploding and then leaking rice out of my

armpit has scared me into being extra safe!

I went from this...

To this!

From....

To...

I think it’s a great method for creating those

impossibly huge anime boobs, and

it’s cheap, too! Cheaper if you can

borrow a bra from someone for the

cosplay. Thanks to stumbling upon this,

I feel like a ton of cosplays have opened

up to me! Finally, I can be Orihime or

Sailor Jupiter or maybe even

Ivy from Soul Calibur!

There you have it. Crazy huge anime tits for under 20 bucks!

I made a set of D’s

and a set of B’s.

Here are my results!

Hmm... maybe not that last one.

Anyway, you get my drift.

11

(Not to be served to anyone that you do not wish the sweet death of tasty overload to.)

1 lb Ground Spicy Italian Sausage1 lb Ground Lean Chicken/Pork/Turkey/Beef (whatever you feel like using)1/3 Package of Stove Top Savory Herbs & Spices Stuffing2 Eggs1/3 lb Fresh Diced Mushrooms1/2 cup Fresh Chopped Celery1/4 cup Fresh Chopped Cilantro1/4 cup Fresh Chopped Basil1/4 cup Fresh Chopped Garlic1/2 cup Fresh Chopped Green Onions3 oz Tomato Paste (1/2 of those little cans)1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil1/2 cup White Wine1 tbsp Worcestershire SauceMontreal Steak Seasoning (to taste)Mrs. Dash Original Seasoning (to taste)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a bowl. If the mixture is not holding together enough because it is too dry, then try adding another egg. Or, if it is too wet, add some more stuffing mix. Form into golf ball sized meatballs and place on a foil-lined cooking sheet. Make sure that your pan/sheet has a lip. OR, for best results, place the meatballs separately onto a non-stick mini-muffin tin (this makes turning them and clean-up so much easier). Bake in a pre-heated oven at 375 degrees until they begin to brown. Then turn them over and place them under the broiler on low. Crisp them up and rotate them until the outsides are nice and well-done. Take them out and serve them with your favorite dish or sauce.

Deadly Meatballs of Deliciousness and Doom~ by Cryshayn ~

12

13

When I first heard about pumpkin chili, I seriously thought it sounded like the most horrible thing in the world. But then someone made it for me. It is the smoothest, most wonderful ver-sion of chili I think I have ever had and it is a perfect meal for the fall. I love to cook it up on Halloween and eat it while watching “Mad Monster Party” and handing out candy to the trick-or-treaters that come to my door.

Ingredients:

1.5 pounds of ground chuck1 (15 ounce )can of dark red kidney beans1 (15 ounce) can of light red kidney beans2 (14 ounce) cans of pumpkin puree (OR, I like to cook down my own real pumpkin and puree the guts. This gives any pumpkin dish you make a much richer flavor) - see end of recipe for instructions on how to cook down your own pumpkin.1 medium sized onion, diced1 green bell pepper, diced1 (46 fl. Ounce) can of tomato juice2 (28 ounce) cans of dices or crushed tomatoes, peeled1 cup chicken broth1 fresh clove of garlic, diced1 tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice1 teaspoon of salt1 teaspoon of pepper2 teaspoons of Cumin1 teaspoon of chili powder (or more to suit your taste)2 tablespoons white granulated sugar

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground chuck, drain.2. Stir in onion, bell pepper and garlic. Cook five minutes.3. Pour the ground chuck mixture into the crock pot and add the kidney beans, tomatoes, chicken brother and pumpkin puree. Stir together.4. Slowly add the tomato juice until you reach your desired thickness.5. Add Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cumin, Chili Powder and granulated sugar. Stir.6. Add in salt and pepper. 7. Turn crock pot on high and cook for 4 hours.8. Turn crock pot down to low or warm and let simmer.

Serve and enjoy. I like to mix my chili with sour cream, cheese and crackers!

To make your own pumpkin puree: select a pumpkin of any size. Preferably a good sized pumpkin if you wish to yield more than one or two dishes from it. The puree freezes well and can be used over the year. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Cut the pumpkin in half from stem to base. Remove seeds and pulp. Cover each side with foil and bake for 1 hour or until tender. Scoop out the meat of the pumpkin and puree in a blender. Strain to remove any additional pulp. Puree can be stored in the freezer in freezer bags or plastic containers.

Crock Pot Pumpkin ChiliBy Jondi “Ruby Red” Soper

14

She awoke early in the morningcurled on the floor with her hair a mess,and dark circles under her eyes.“At least today I get to see her.”She got up, and changed into another dressand brushed her hair, and put on her cape.Then out the window she went.

She ran towards the stableto grab her black horse Star Fire.“Hello my lovely.”Just then she realized she forgot to pack any-thing.“Well, I’m sure it won’t be that bad.”

She rode up to that edge of the cliffwhere the mysterious boy waited.She rode up and saw him sitting against the tree.“Hey, I’m here.””I see that. Did you prepare for the journey?”“I forgot to. I’m sorry.””Don’t be sorry to me, be sorry to yourself. I don’t need to prepare”“Why do you say that?””Don’t worry about that. Lets go.” “There’s something strange about you..why do you always wearthat damned robe? Why won’t you tell me your identity.Can’t you trust me?””No, I don’t trust anyone. If your smart you’d do the same.”“Interesting..”

She got up top Star fire, and rode after the boy.They rode through the country side for days, and nights.The first night was terrible.She realized why she shouldve brought some-thing to eat at least.The next few nights was a tiny bit easier.She didn’t complain, and just carried on.Near the last few nights is when it started to hit.She was cold, thirsty, getting depressed, and paranoid.

When they settled down for that nightshe curled up into a ball, and started to weepwhenever she knew he was asleep.She wouldn’t cry in front of a stranger.Defiantly not infront of someone who helped her, it won’t be the last time shes seen him.

She cried, and cried.Hoping, and praying that shes okay.Also hoping she will be okay.She kept hearing, and seeing things in the shad-ows.She hasn’t really been out of the castle, ever.So she knows whats out there, but shes never re-ally been prepared.

It was the middle of the night, she wasn’t think-ing, and was scared.She went over to the boy, and poked him.“A-are you awake..?”No response, just a jerk of his shoulders.“Okay that’s fine then, I see how it is.”She sat right back down in her little corner to think.

All she could think about was, who was this guy?Since she knew he was asleep, she reached over for his bag.All that was in there was some kind of broken mirror, and some glass shards.

“Lilith”Welcome To My Realm(Continued from Previous Issue)

15

She took the biggest, and sharpest piece she could find.“Now I can do this.”She walked out into the black, out into the shad-ows.No thought of whom, or what may be out there.

She then felt clawing, and scratching.Then she saw her very first Shadow Demon.”Hello pretty girl, what happens to be your damn?”She got ready, with the glass in hand.“What do you want?”She felt the cold arms wrap around her body.”Aw, it isn’t obvious enough?”She tried to hurt it with the glass, but nothing happens.“W-what are you?!”Then it giggled at her.”Mm mm you’d be such a delightful little pet.”

She started to get scared, but tried to hide it.She knew that she wasn’t strong enoughto fight whatever it was.Then she saw his figure running toward it,and all she heard was it screaming as she fell to the ground.”Are you stupid?”“I was going to thank you, but forget it now.””You went out into the Shadows with what? A piece of glass? Why would you be so ignorant? Were you not taught anything?”“I heard something out there, and I was trying..””Trying to kill yourself. You couldve woken me up, and I would’ve checked it out.Something bad couldve happened to both of us.”“Well..I was just trying to defend myself instead of relying on you!””Since were both up lets just move on because you tried to be a heroin.”They both got on there horses slowly getting

closer, and closer to the end.Lilith kept thinking about what he said.In her eyes, she should be able to take care of herself.She shouldn’t have to run to some stranger for help.

Finally, in the next several hours, they arrived at the mirror.They both pulled up there horses, and jumped down.“Its..beautiful.””Its the reason for chaos in both realms. No its not beautiful.”

----------

As she examined the mirror she just looked at him.“Why do you say its the reason for Chaos?””I say that because its true. Do you know what happens when a shadow leaves this realm?It prays on the mortals in the Light realm.Do you really think a pure mortal could defend themselves against such evil?”“Well..I guess your right. So, how does it work exactly?””I will show you.”

The mysterious boy took out a book from his satchel,and flipped through it too a page with words thatLilith could not understand.Another language perhaps?He then spoke words the most beautiful words she had ever heardeven though she didn’t understand any of them.

He then asked without looking at her,”What is her name?”“I think the papers said Lillian..”

16

”Do you think, or do you know? You do realize that if its the wrong namethat would mean that your just going to be getting close to someone that youdon’t even know.”“I know.””Very well.”

He said more of the oh so magical words,and then said Lillian name.All of a sudden the mirrors imaged changed fromher, and the strangers reflection to that of a bedroom.

“Is..is that her?””Yes”Lilith watched as her sister drifted into a deep slumber.“Can I go see her?””Who’s stopping you?”

Lilith nodded her head, and stepped through the mirror.

The room was dark, only lit by the TV.The floor was a gray colored carpet with tons of clothes on the floor.Lillian laid along the right side of the wall.Lilith sat on Lillian bed stroking her hair, and snuggling up too her.She leaned in close to Lillian ear, and whispered,“Shh its okay sister, I have finally come for you.I hope your okay. I promise to visit you every night.I love you..sweet dreams..”

The stranger steps through the mirror, and mo-tions Lilith to come back.She gets up off the bed, and steps back through the mirror.“Shes beautiful..””You can’t stay too long. Either way, she can only see you at night.”“Oh, I see..””I think its time you go home now its starting to get late.”“Very well, will I see you tomorrow?””Wait, and find out.’

By Rosalie

A New Comic Series featuring the D20 Girls Organization Welcome to the world of Professor Moriarty’s Great great granddaughter Katherine Moriarty, Katt; discovers whom she is after some rather bizarre twists in her life as a power corporate attorney for her employer; The secretive and globally connected Division 20. She will find that being Moriarty’s Descendant is the least of her worries. The story will feature characters created by members of the D20 Girls Organization.

Website: http://www.division20.com

17

18

19

20

21

Dear L,

I’m an overweight otaku who loves to cosplay. I’m always getting put down for my costumes,

no matter how well put together, cause I’m so big. is there anything I can do, or should I just

stop cosplaying altogether?

Thanks <33-D-chan

Dear D-chan,

I’m also a larger girl who loves to cosplay. I still do, and I rarely get any negative comments. There are a few things that have helped me along I can share though.

First, pick an outfit that shows off your best attributes. Got great hair, eyes, or a killer rack? Make that your focus, and concentrate your outfit on flattering the rest of you. What ever your not okay with, or self conscious about, cover it up. While I enjoy all women’s body types, doing what ensures you have a good time is more import than someone’s opinion.

The last thing I recommend is to have confidence. The world is full of jerks who like to troll. Don’t feed their tiny egos by giving them the time of day. Everyone is beautiful in different ways!

-L

Questions From Our Girls

Ask L

22

23

24

25

26

27

Everything was packed! The fact that the con was spread across five different hotels didn’t help matters either, making it quite a challenge for the GPX Gam-ing editors to cover! But some-how everyone survived and had an absolute blast at this year’s Dragon*Con!

GPX Gaming editors spark3r and Stormraven were both very im-pressed with and in constant awe of the costumes! Not just the quantity, however, but the quality and creativity and variety of costumes! How often can you get Prince Namor, Jack Sparrow (sorry, CAPTAIN Jack Sparrow), a Dalek, a TARDIS, and a steam-punked Ghostbuster all in the same room? If your answer is

“pretty much all the time”, then be prepared for a line of people wanting to come live in your world of epicness. There were so many costumes to be seen (sev-eral David Bowies and Mystiques and even the Silver Surfer!) they can’t all be done justice in a few words. You’ll just have to go to the con next year to see for your-self!

A-list (and even B-list) guests packed the Walk of Fame on Fri-day, including fan favorites like Brent Spiner, Robert Englund, Edward James Olmos (actually, a lot of the Battlestar Gallactica cast were there), Felicia Day, Wil-liam Shatner, Tom Felton, and a ton of others! Spark3r even got to meet her idol: Elvira! There

was even some bromancing at the guest’s table next to the Mis-tress of Darkness between Ed-die McClintock and a fan! But be prepared for long wait times and high prices; some guests charged as much as $60 just for an auto-graph, not to mention extra fees for pictures with them or signed merchandise. The sticker shock

Dragon*Con is definitely one of the biggest conventions in North America, there’s no deny-ing; just look at the streets on Saturday morn-ing or go inside the Marriott Marquis at any given point between Thursday and Monday!

By: The GPX Gaming Editors

Dragon*Con 2011

28

just may be too much for some newbies. Despite the cost of the autographs and swag, all of the guests had wonderful panels like “@$%& My Captain Says” (in fact, all of Shatner’s panels had lines going outside and around the building), Q&A sessions, and autograph signings.

In terms of panels, this year’s were some of the best around! Everything from the newest My Little Pony series, Doctor Who, to Ghost Hunters was given its mo-ment to shine over the weekend (including a showing of My Little Pony fanvids, most of which were absolutely amazing). Stormraven got the chance to be a part of a very interactive Doctor Who panel on Sunday (since the In-vader Zim panel overflowed into the hallway and down a corri-dor, which made her very sad). The panelists all knew what they were talking about and were kind enough to want to hear opinions from the audience periodically. Seeing as Stormraven feels very strongly about one companion in particular, when the panelists asked for volunteers she leapt at her chance to do her best im-pression of said character; she got a roomful of laughter and an action figure for her enthusiasm!

On Sunday, there was a Narnia vs. Middle Earth discussion about the successes, failures, and chal-lenges of adapting both the Lord of the Rings and the Chronicles of Narnia onto the silver screen. If anyone is even remotely

interested in either franchise, it was definitely the place to be! While Stormraven did her thing, spark3r enjoyed sitting in on the Indie PC gaming panel learning the nuts-and-bolts of the indie gaming industry, especially how to find revenue, not become depressed or overworked, and how marketing can benefit even indie games. She also sat in on a Horror in Gaming panel, which covered how gamemakers can set the moods for horror LARPs and video games. To be honest, the panel covered how to avoid cheesy effects and monsters with zippers down the back.

Laughter, you dirty people!

Late nights were the best for music lovers; concerts went on every single night with some of the best indie artists in the country! Steampunk group Ab-ney Park, goth/humor/country/whatever-else-he-wants-to-be musician Voltaire, electro-punk/goth project Ayria, and interna-tionally-renowned Cruxshadows had attendees packed in the ballrooms and up well into the wee hours of the morning! These concerts were in addition to all of the dances (such as the Yule Ball), including the Masquerade Ball held in honor of the 25th an-niversary of Dragon*Con, not to mention the local theater group putting on a live showing of the cult-classic The Rocky Horror Pic-ture Show!

While spark3r and Stormraven love anime conventions, there’s something about multi-media cons like Dragon*Con that is just enchanting. Maybe it’s the in-sane amount of top-name guests Dragon*Con seems to get every year, the variety and scope of the panels, or the general atmo-sphere of a wide range of attend-ees from newborn to near-death. Whatever it is, it’s got more than a few people addicted to cons and con-going over the years! 40,000+ attendees and 3,500+ hours of programming at the 25th anniversary of Dragon*Con this year alone can’t all be wrong.

In addition to these panels, there were voice acting panels with guests like Mike McFarland, Kyle Hebert, and Richard Epcar. Speak-ing of Mr. Epcar, he later hosted a panel called “An Evening with Ba-tou” where he covered his roles and answered (ahem) interesting questions about the characters he’s portrayed throughout his career. Epcar was also a part of anime fanvids mentioned earlier that had all of the GPX Gaming staff rolling on the floor…with laughter!

29

30

Ever go to a convention and get a major case of the costume envies? ostumes can cost an arm and a leg, or at least more money than most people have to spend on a hobby. But never fear! You too, can have fun costumes and look like a million bucks (without actually spending a million bucks).

(Picture to right:) At GenCon in my outfit with some guy who asked to have

his picture taken with me

Costumes Budget

By Ruby Red (Jondi Schmitt-Soper)

on a

Costumes can be made out of virtu-ally anything. I am not kidding ei-ther…from old bed sheets to dollar remnants of fabric from Wal-Mart to recycled Styrofoam cups or pa-per plates. Almost anything around your house could possibly be used in your next great costume. You just have to be creative.

Of course, some of it does depend on your ability to sew. If you can’t sew, that will put a damper on just how much you can do with raw ma-terials. But don’t fret. You can still cut back your costs in other depart-ments. You might have to buy your actual clothing, but stop buying you accessories. Instead, next time try to think of ways to make them!

For example, steampunk – while it is a way of life for many – is also a very popular cosplay now. And

why not? It is fabulous, gorgeous and there are endless possibilities! However, steampunk costumes can get quite pricey because they just aren’t steampunk without accesso-ries.

I recently put together a stempunk(ish) outfit, complete with a mini-tophat. Now, I plan to expand on my idea of this outfit and make it better. I put it together on short notice to wear to Gencon. And you know what? I got all kinds of compliments on an outfit I spent very little money on! Guess how much in fact? I spent a grand total of $42. Yes, I spent less than $50 for an entire outfit including jewelry and a hat.

How did I do that? It was simple. I started out with the boots. I knew I wanted to do something

with a steampunk look, so I start-ed looking at local boutiques and second-hand stores. My town has a great little one that gets some really neat stuff and I scored a wonderful pair of brown boots for only $12. So that told me my basic color scheme for my outfit. It had to go with these boots.

Next, I went looking for a skirt. I wanted something in the light brown or cream-colored family, but I wasn’t being too picky. Eventually, I plan to make a skirt and I have a vi-sion for what I want it to look like (it won’t cost me much to make either) but I was on a short deadline at the time. So, I hit the mall. I didn’t ex-pect to actually find anything in the mall, but what the heck, right? Lo and behold, I found something that would work. It was just a cream-colored double-layer short skirt. I found it on a clearance rack for

C

32

somewhere around $7.

My next find was completely un-expected. I was going into a store my teenage daughter shops in for clothing and I found the perfect steampunk vest! It looked like dis-tressed brown leather with clunky buttons. It couldn’t have been more perfect! Even better, it was only $20. I also scored a distressed-looking gold charm necklace there for only $3.49.

The vest was a short vest, the kind that stops just beneath the upper-torso. In a perfect world, I would have had a solid black waist cincher corset to go with it. I am still, to this day, looking for one that is a good bargain and have actually found one I think will work from Ethereal Threads at an unbelievable price. You can find them online at www.facebook.com/etherealthreads. However, for the purposes of Gen-con, I didn’t have the time or the ex-tra money to buy a corset (I wanted to have some spending money for the convention after all). So, I went with a long black tank top from Tar-get for $8.

The final touch was my mini-tophat. Sure you can buy them many places online for $20 or more. I have even seen them for as much as $50. But, why spend all that money when you can make one for less than $5 right at home? Here’s what you need: stiff felt, E6000 Glue, hot glue gun, hot glue

sticks, whatever you wish to deco-rate the hat with, tulle.

The actual hat only consists of three pieces; a long straight piece that will become what I call the “smoke-stack” of the hat, a small circle that will become the top of the hat, and a large circle for the bottom (you will eventually cut a hole in the bottom, so you may want to have a small hole started in the very center of it).

Step 1. Using hot glue (or E6000), bring the two ends of your long piece together and make the smokestack of the hat. You will need to use a clothespin to hold the seam together while the glue dries if you use E6000.

Step 2. Using E6000, carefully put glue on the top rim of the smoke-stack and then place your smaller circle on the top of the hat. Wipe off any excess glue before the glue dries or it will leave an ugly mark.

Step 3. Once the glue dries, trim the top of the hat so it matches the size of your smokestack exactly.

Step 4. Measure to the exact center of the larger circle and mark it.

Step 5. Decide how wide you want the brim of your hat to be and make small marks around the hat, at one inch increments.

Step 6. Cut tabs from that center marking to those one inch incre-

mental markings (you will use these tabs to attach the brim to the bot-tom of the hat).

Step 7. Using E6000 or Hot Glue, glue the tabs to the inside of the smokestack making sure the brim of your hat is flush to the bottom of the smokestack.

Step. 8. Cover the hat in tulle. (I found that using hot glue is not a good idea here, as it will burn your fingers.). There are many ways you can cover the hat in tulle, be cre-ative here and do it however you wish. You can tie it on, glue it on or find some other way. I cut it in a large square, brought it down over the hat, tied a ribbon around the bottom of the smokestack to hold the tulle in place, then brought the tulle around the brim to the inside of the hat and glued it into place.

Step 9. Attach a barrette, hair comb or use bobby pins to wear your hat.

There are tutorials on YouTube for making hats like this, though truth-fully I didn’t find them very help-ful. With a project like this, it is just trial and error. Don’t get frustrated if you mess up, the materials don’t cost much and you can undo it and try again.

Good luck!

Celes-Photographer-Sonja Carter

33

Strong and Creative Cosplayers in North Carolina(Author Unlisted)When one thinks of Cosplay and Anime, North Carolina is prob-ably not what you would associate with the word, but several D20 Girls in North Carolina are doing their part to put North Carolina on the Cosplay Scene.

The Chainmail Chick While she is not your typical co-splayer in the Anime and Video game scene, Allegra or as she is known in inner geek circles: The Chainmail Chick, is a talented cos-tume model. Her work has earned her several positions at different conventions as a guest, promoter, and a booth babe. This is a name you won’t forget as soon as you see her in her famous Chainmail ensembles. Allegra can be found on the D20 Girls Project website as well as on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thechainmailchick

ChikiChiki is the North Carolina manager and has been cosplaying for 11 years. Her love of costumes was kindled at a young age spending time with her aunt in the Costume Shop for the Sarasota Opera, Ringling Brother Barnum and Bailey Clown College and Chautauqua Opera. She learned to sew at a very young age and took that skill with her into

the world of Cosplay. She now cosplays with her best friends: the Cosplay Pirates. You can find her on The D20 Girls Proj-ect website as well as on www.cosplaypirates.com

photographer-Joshua Steinke

photographer-Anna Fischer

Celes-Photographer-Sonja Carter Rydia-Photographer-PhotoN

XS

Lady Gaga-photographer-C

hiki Fischer

31

Katherine, also known as Mayuge Seishou, is originally from Califor-nia but now calls North Carolina home. She specializes in a number of different cosplay genres and has an impressive cosplaying portfolio, she finds her love of art beneficial to her work with cosplay: “Cosplay is one of my favorite hobbies because you never know where it can take you artistically, socially, and beyond.” Katherine not only is a D20 Girl but

is also one seventh of the Cosplay Pirates, a cosplay group based out of North Carolina. Mayuge Seishou can be found on the D20 Girls Project website and on www.cosplaypirates.com

Mayuge SeishouX

-23-

phot

ogrp

aher

-GD

Sul

livan

Pho

togr

aphy

Steam Punk Sailor Jupiter-Photographer-Randall TallentB

londie-Photographer-PhotoNX

S

ScribeAs her name suggests this cosplayer is much more than that, she is also a talented writer as well as cosplayer skilled in leatherworking. “My love of Anime brought me to study Japan, and now my interest has expanded to include culture, history, and language. After gradu-ating University, I pursued that interest and went to Japan for three years. Now, I’m proficient in conver-sational Japanese… I love crafty things, especially making costumes. One of my favorite aspects of that is creating leather pieces that work in costumes like the real thing.” Scribe cosplays with her good friend Raven in a group called “Dark-Light Cosplay.” Scribe can be found on the D20 Girls Project Website and on her Blog: http://lscribeharris.blogspot.com/

32

37

Strange LoveWhile Strange Love a.k.a. is still very young she has an impressive amount of incredibly accurate and creative costumes under her belt. Her love of video games and anime has translated into several beau-

Space Core-Photographer-Sonja C

arter

Cali, or Courtney, is a warm and inviting person. Her creativity and flare for life are very apparent to any who meet her. Her obvious joy shows in her cosplay, everything she creates she seems to create

tiful and alluring cosplays. Her original design of the Space Core from Portal 2 has already earned her a reputation around conventions and the internet. She is truly a cosplayer to watch, she will only get better. Strange Love can be found on the D20 Girls Project website

and on Deviant Art: http://youronlydoll.deviantart.com/

simply because she wants to have fun wearing it. Cali can be found on the D20 Girls Project Website and on Deviant Art: http://utopi-anpigeon.deviantart.com/

Cali

Celes-Photographer-C

herie

Rei-Photographer-Sonja Carter

Haruko-Photographer-Washu Otaku

Rikku-Photographer-Unknown

SteamPunk-Photographer-Daniel Grey

38

This gaming convention may be as a small gaming expo, however it is the largest free LAN party in North America.

At first glance from the name, an out-sider may assume that this conven-tion focuses solely on id software’s hit game series Quake. However, to assume this is the case would be a grave mistake, as this annual event also showcases the newest hard-ware and games from id software. The attendees are computer gamers of all walks of life, some of which equipped with their own PC mods. And oh, does the inner computer nerd in me love a good PC mod...

This leads to one of the things that makes QuakeCon rather unique for a gaming convention: the Bring Your Own Computer area (or BYOC), open all hours. A person can re-serve a seat, and upon check-in to the convention, the person proceeds into a line to register their tower and monitor (to help prevent theft)

and be directed to what seat in the BYOC is theirs. Now, if a person has not pre-ordered a seat, the open spaces are left as first-come, first-serve, and the reserved seats that are not claimed by Friday at 7pm are opened for the taking. The BYOC section is arguably the largest area of the convention in regards to floor space alone, and quite possibly the most popular reason to attend this convention. It was very well run and organized, and was worth an addi-tion wait in line for set up purposes.

The BYOC may in fact be the very heart of QuakeCon, as it is one of a few traditions that have been with the con since 1996. Another aspect of that has been around since its in-ception is the lengendary John Car-mack of id software annual keynote speech. What basically occurs during a John Carmack keynote speech is a lengthy monologue concerning the whole year leading up to the con-vention in terms of programming developments on different projects

being worked on by id software, with an announcement somewhere toward the end that hadn’t been re-leased until that keynote. This year, Carmack announced that Doom 3 source code will be released by the end of this year, and spoke in detail about id software’s upcoming game RAGE.

On the expo floor of QuakeCon attendees could play some of the completed single player campaign of RAGE for either Xbox 360, Playsta-tion 3, or PC. Also on the expo floor was a stage that, throughout the four days of the convention, did draw-ings of tickets for four lucky attend-ees to play the racing multipayer on RAGE for a thousand dollars and a chance at winning a RAGE limited edition Hennessey Velociraptor.

RAGE wasn’t the only game being played on the expo floor. Hi-Rez studios had a beta version of capture the flag available to play from their upcoming edition to the Tribes fran-chise: Tribes Ascend. Sixteen people (eight on eight) got to play twenty

QuakeCon 2011

By Alissa “Saki” Butzow

Thousands of people from across the country, and a few internationally came out to the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas for QuakeCon 2011.

39

minute matches, or until one team captured five flags. Alienware also had a spot on the expo floor for free to play tournaments of games like Team Fortress 2, Left 4 Dead 2, and Quake Live. During time in between tournaments, an attendee could play any of these games, or Portal 2 on the Alienware computers. This al-lowed attendees of the convention who may not have brought their PC to play some games while they were at the convention, or get away form the BYOC and play with new people or even something new. Both Alienware and the Tribes Ascend had raffles going throughout the convention.

Also on the expo floor were various vendors selling parts of computers such as cooling units, video cards, mouse pads, mice, and headphones. Bawls had a table selling their ener-gy drink as single bottles or as cas-es, which seemed to be one of the beverages of choice for the BYOC. The vendors at all the booths were very amiable, and multiple booths had raffles going throughout the convention to encourage attendees

come back and visit as well.

Come to think of it, the expo floor might have been called the “Raf-fles Everywhere” floor. On one hand, there were some pretty excel-lent items up for raffle from every booth, but the mass quantities of them could be considered a little off-putting.

What wasn’t off-putting was the panels that were executed through-out the convention. On the Alien-ware mainstage presentations were given for Prey 2 and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Skyrim is look-ing better than sex, by the way... not kidding here.), as well as a panel dis-cussion of 20 years of id software. In the smaller panels rooms were panels on First-Perspective Perspec-tives, Community Manager: Un-moderated!, and Ultimate Origins: The Games that Influence Us. All the panels were executed by brilliant representatives from such compa-nies as id, Bethesda, Respawn, Ar-kane, and Insomniac.

If a free convention spanning four days of LAN, free raffles, game demos, and panels are not convinc-

ing enough of reasons to come down to Texas to attend QuakeCon, then what ultimately sets QuakeCon as a definite do-not-miss conven-tion is the community feel of the convention as a whole. At no other convention will one start up con-versation with a stranger and the stranger offers one to play on their steam account. Or will one jump in on a four-player Left 4 Dead 2 sur-vival mode team with two guys from Quebec and another girl out of no-where.

Wrapped up, QuakeCon is by far an outstanding convention full of heart and substance. It is highly rec-ommended that everyone that loves gaming goes, even if you do not have a computer to game on, even if you do not typically play first-person shooters, even if you live out of the state or country. Trust this self-iden-tifying platform-fighting gamer: you will have a good time, and you will broaden your horizons. Excuse me while I go start building a computer.

For more information and to check out some of the highlights from this year’s QuakeCon, please check out http://www.quakecon.org/

40

There is something innately comforting when a large group of people gathers together to embrace and celebrate their shared interests and socialize on a grand scale.

supply the newest and greatest advancements in products; the sponsors, who promote them-selves by placating the masses with free schwag; the panel-ists, who are there to increase numbers and notoriety; and the attendees, who, whereby em-bracing their fanaticism, give the entire convention purpose. Each branch fills a need, and no branch can exist without the support of the rest. The ques-tion is: How will you participate?

Instead of religious institu-tions, conventions are filled with groups dedicated to par-ticular products, those who sup-port specific brands, or who are devout followers of particular sponsors and panelists. Party lines are drawn between these convention hierarchies and fac-tions. Are you a Dragonlance or Forgotten Realms kind of gal? Mac or PC? DC or Marvel? PS3 or Xbox 360? Star Trek or Star

Wars? TOKYOPOP or VIZ Me-dia? iPhone or Android? De-pending on what you pick, you could be a part of the “in” crowd or on the outs with the different troops of fandom. Be sure to choose your associations wisely.

Resources & EconomicsHaggling, bartering, trading, and finagling – The convention marketplace is its own little pocket of commerce. Attendees and vendors alike will bring the cream of the crop of their collec-tions. Whether its action figures, lithographs, jump drives, an-tique swords, rare autographs, comic books, or various hand-made wares, the likelihood of finding the perfect deal is strictly based on supply and demand. Ergo, you demand it, and they supply it. Cash is not always necessary with transactions at conventions; many times a hag-gling session over prices may turn into a mutually beneficial barter exchange. Mint condition Sailor Moon action figure for an autographed headshot of Stan Lee? You got it! My handmade

Unconventional: The Culture of Conventions~ Laura “Cryshayn” Latterman ~

Whether it’s a comic book con-vention or an anime expo, it’s al-ways the true fans that make the event a worthwhile experience. Sure, there are tons of freebies and raffles, demonstrations and competitions, merchants and high-calorie foods; but, for me, it’s the people – the culture of convention goers.

What exactly is the culture of conventions? How might you fit in? Well, a simple approach to defining a culture is by high-lighting specific aspects of the group. Let us unconventionally break down convention culture into government & religion, re-sources & economics, family & society, and arts & technology.

Government & ReligionThere is a certain hierarchy within any given convention: the event staff and volunteers, who make sure that everything runs smoothly; the vendors, who

Artwork by Steven and Abigail Selvidge

41

steampunk goggle collection for your gigantic cosplay hammer? Maybe if you throw in your pock-et watch and the newest Fables trade – then, maybe we can talk.

Family & SocietyYou have to walk the walk and talk the talk to fit in. Do you look and sound like you belong at your convention? Most conven-tioneers dress to the occasion: full cosplay for anime conven-tions, goggle and gears for ste-ampunk fashion shows, favorite nerdy t-shirt for gaming expos, etc. Couples and families tend to coordinate as well. Think-ing about taking your little one to the local comic convention? Toss a Yoda costume on him and strap him to your back – You’ll fit right in.

Conventioneers are typically social and welcoming. The pur-pose of a convention is to pro-vide a venue for fandom sharing. Attendees want to share their opinions on the newest tech, is-sues, games, etc. and get your feedback. They want to share. Conventions are all about get-ting to know your fellow fans, making friendships, joining groups, playing and just having a good time. Even if you’re a tad on the shy side, let that slip a little and truly embrace the fun.

Arts & TechnologyAttending various conventions in my time, I’ve noticed a pleth-ora of “How To” workshops. They are informative, interest-ing, creative, and social. Artists, who have honed their crafts in jewelry, drawing, special effects makeup, sewing, sword fighting, etc., share tips of their trades. DIY fanatics can learn a lot, while also admiring the amazing works of big-name artists and discovering the new-er talents of lesser known local artisans.

For many convention goers, it’s

the computers, software, hard-ware, and other technical inno-vations that make the experi-ence worthwhile. The newest gaming systems out on display, demo versions of up and com-ing RPG’s ready to be tested and played, and the most creative minds in the industry all gath-ered together to share in the techie fun. Curious when the newest incarnation of your fa-vorite game is coming out? This is place to find out! Immediate hands on feedback; how much better can it get?!

I never understood movies and television shows that made fun of conventions and their attend-ees. I always admired the fans’ devotion, willingness to em-brace their joys, and the sincere feeling of camaraderie at those expos and events. The culture of conventions may be uncon-ventional; but, there is nothing uncultured about it. Long live nerdy conventions! Game on.

42

The eighth annual Erie Days of Gaming is around the corner. Held in Erie’s stately Avalon Hotel the weekend of October 21-23, Erie Days of Gaming offers a plethora of scheduled and open tabletop games seldom seen outside of the likes of Gen Con.As with larger, more famous conventions, Erie Days of Gaming offers all types of games. Scheduled events include a Magic: the Gather-ing cube draft, a Flames of War tournament, and board game demos featuring products from such illustrious publishers as Rio Grande and Z-Man. Whether you favor board games, card games, or war games, Erie Days of Gaming can easily sate your appetite.

Less experienced and less focused gamers are also welcomed and encouraged, however. Each day of the convention will feature a Deckbuild-ing Decathlon, where entrants can play any of over a dozen deck building games (such as Nightfall and Thunderstone)…but nobody knows what game they’ll be playing until they sit down at their assigned table each round. Priz-es will be given both to individual game winners and the overall winner of the day’s Decathlon.

Besides the Decathlons, board games will be demoed all day every day for the duration of the convention. Erie Days of Gaming even has a “Play It to Win It” series of demos, where everyone who tries the game is entered to win it. Staff are also always pleased to teach any game in the convention’s massive library.

As much as the convention caters to hardcore gamers, a major driving force behind the fes-tivities is introducing new players to the board gaming fold. Games for all skill levels and all ages will be available for open gaming and for demos, and this year’s event features Family Day, where a family that has not attended a previous Erie Days of Gaming event may play for free from noon until 5pm on Saturday, October 22.

This is also a reason the Erie Days of Gaming committee strives to maintain one key dif-ference between their convention and more famous conventions like Origins and Comic Con. While other conventions may cost $25-50 per day and $80-100 for the week, Erie Days of Gaming is $10 for one day or $20 for the week-end for an adult, and discounts are available for students (with valid photo student ID) and children (if accompanied by an adult). Erie Days of Gaming strives to be a convention by gamers, for gamers; all staff are volunteers, and exten-sive local advertising helps offset other costs.

Erie Days of Gaming is a hometown convention with big-city cachet. Whether you’re experi-enced or new, competitive or casual, Erie Days of Gaming offers events and open play for everyone--at a reasonable price and in a convenient location.

By: Kyle Zaffino

By: Kyle Zaffino

Ja

pa

nim

e G

am

es

20

27

19

6th

St. S

W S

uite

A-1

04

Lyn

nw

oo

d, W

A 9

80

36

1-4

25

-77

8-2

09

1

ww

w.ta

nto

cuo

re.com

For more Inform

ation, visit us at:

What is Tanto Cuore?

Age: 12+

Minutes to play: 30-60

# of Players: 2-4

illust.七瀬葵

2009 Arclight, Inc. A

ll Rights R

eserved.