
Tools and Materials Safety
Making props and costumes is amazingly fun and satisfying, but remember; safety always comes first.
- When you buy a new tool or material, read the safety information.
- When spraying paint, heating materials, or using chemicals, work in a well ventilated area.
- With hot things, wear work gloves. If using chemicals, wear rubber gloves.
- Don’t work if you’re sleep deprived. You’ll starting making more mistakes than progress.
- Keep your shop clean and organized, with power cords out of the way.
- Like the great Jimmy DiResta says, “always be present” with your work.
- Keep a well-stocked First Aid kit in the shop…and a fire extinguisher.
- When cutting with a knife or chisel, don’t put your hand beyond the direction that you’re cutting toward.
List of Safety Tools
- Respirator
- Dust Mask
- Work Glasses or Goggles
- Face Shield
- Work Gloves
- Rubber Gloves
- First Aid Kit
- Fire Extinguisher
Convention Safety
When you’ve got your sweet costume and you’re off to a convention, you have a responsibility to be a safe presence. Make sure you have fun and don’t stop others from having fun, too!
- Go to your convention’s website and read their cosplay rules.
- When you’re at the convention, keep hydrated and take breaks! Also, break in your shoes before the con.
- At the convention, look for a “weapons check” station (most cons have them) to prove your weapon is safe.
- Don’t bring real weapons to a convention (airsoft guns, metal blades).
- Make a removable orange cap for your prop gun.
- Keep your costume and prop from hitting other convention attendees.
- When posing with a person, ask permission before pointing your weapon near them. (Never point weapons directly at people at conventions, even for photos.)
- Remember, just because you’re cosplaying it doesn’t mean attendees can harass you in any way. Cosplay is not consent. Check out my video on Convention Safety & Security for my opinion. If you are being harassed, find a convention worker and report the offense immediately.
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