Join Us at Holiday Matsuri 2023 for a Festive Cosplay Extravaganza!

Photo Credits: Lionhardt photo by @aleestudios, Lich King photo by @aleestudios, Sypha Belnades photo by @aleestudios, Hanako photo by @downenphotography

We hope everyone is having a happy holiday season! We’re thrilled to announce that we’ll be returning to Holiday Matsuri as instructors at Cosplay Academy. This year, HolMat is set to be more festive and fun-filled than ever, happening from December 20- 22, 2023. Get ready for three nights of incredible cosplay, workshops, and holiday cheer! 

At Cosplay Academy, we're hosting a series of workshops designed to elevate your cosplay skills. Join us for:

• That’s So Metal: Faux Metal Painting – Learn the secrets of creating realistic metal effects on your props and costumes.
• Sew Simple: The Essentials of Hand Stitching – Master the art of hand stitching to add intricate details and durability to your cosplay creations.
  
• Shine Bright: A Guide to Incorporating Lighting into Your Costume Design– Illuminate your costumes in a way that captures everyone's attention.
  
• The Art of Aging: Weathering Techniques for Props and Textiles – Give your gear that authentic, battle-worn look.
  

We're honored to be joined by an incredible lineup of instructors: Cowbutt Crunchies, Nomes of Be More Shonen, TrisRex Studios, and Panterona Cosplay. Their expertise and creative insights will undoubtedly inspire and enhance your cosplay journey.

And that’s not all! This year we’re not only participating as instructors but also bringing our excitement to the convention floor with our sponsors Spraygunner and Createx Colors! Visit our booth to pick up a copy of our new cosplay book “Armor Up! Thermoplastics: Cosplay Props, Armor & Accessories,” perfect for expanding your skills and knowledge. Plus, don’t miss our live demonstrations of airbrushing and 3D printing, showcasing the cutting-edge techniques that can bring your cosplay dreams to life.

We're also excited to be crafting all the awards for the Winter Cosplay Crown again. Plus, expect an assortment of spectacular prizes, thanks to the generous sponsorship from Famore Cutlery, Bernina/Bernette, Arda Wigs, SewTites, Spraygunner, Createx Colors, eSun, and FanPowered Press.

Holiday Matsuri isn't just a convention; it's a celebration where every cosplayer adds their unique holiday twist to their costumes. Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer, a beginner, or just someone who loves the holidays and enjoys anime, gaming, and cosplay conventions, Holiday Matsuri is the event you don't want to miss.

HolMat holds a special place in our hearts, and we look forward to it every year. So pack your cosplays (and maybe a Santa hat or two), and join us for a holiday adventure filled with creativity, learning, and lots of festive fun!

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HokuProps is a team lead by propmaker Chad Hoku and seamstress Sammy Hoku.

Chad’s background in 3D has him designing props and costumes digitally and utilizing different fabrication techniques to produce armor, props, and other costume components.

Sammy’s love for cosplay at a young age had her eventually studying fashion and costume design. She primarily works with fabric, covering all sewn requirements for cosplay projects. HokuProps is best known for their Lionhardt cosplay which won TwitchCon’s 2016 Cosplay Contest’s grand prize.

Shop Armor Up! Thermoplastics at C&T Publishing.