A character’s elaborate armor, signature weapon, or gravity-defying hairstyle might appear effortless when brought to life through cosplay, but recreating these details requires more than a convincing costume. For Laredo Causeplay, the process involves studying character designs, sourcing materials, experimenting with construction techniques, and collaborating with fellow artists to turn fictional worlds into something tangible.
Founded in August 2023, Laredo Causeplay specializes in costume character appearances and community events. Part founder and lead organizer, Jessenia “Jess” Garnica began connecting with local cosplayers after returning to Laredo in 2022, organizing meetups and photoshoots that eventually developed into a larger creative community.
“We heal our inner children through dressing up as our favorite characters, and in turn, we heal others around us who get to see their favorite characters come to life,” Garnica said.
Behind that sense of wonder is a meticulous process. Before beginning a costume, Garnica researches the character’s design, studies the work of other cosplayers, and sketches the outfit to understand how its individual components will fit together. She often repurposes thrifted clothing, which she said gives costumes “a more realistic look” while remaining cost-effective and environmentally friendly. When a piece proves too diffcult to construct herself, she may commission another artist or adapt a ready-made costume.
Neo Nova, another member of Laredo Causeplay, approaches costume construction through sewing, crafting, 3D modeling and printing, and foam building. After collecting reference photos and character sheets, Nova breaks the design into sections and estimates the materials needed to avoid waste.
“Lots of trial and error” is part of the process, Nova explained, particularly when working through complex patterns or unfamiliar techniques. While simpler costumes may take a week or two, more elaborate builds can require three or four weeks.
Balancing that work with a day job has also taught Nova an important lesson: “I’ve learned con crunching (a last minute push to finish a cosplay project) is not worth it, and the costume can wait, especially so you are happy with it.”
For Ruby Vice, research helps determine what she can build herself, what must be commissioned, and where materials can be found. Although costume garments may be ordered and tailored, or made by a seamstress, she typically constructs her props from scratch.
The process begins with sketches, which Vice draws at full size to establish proportions before cutting and shaping materials.
“Depending on what the prop is, I use the appropriate materials, like craft foam or eva foam (ethylene vinyl acetate), and outline the [sketches onto it],” she explained. “Certain props require other types of materials, such as air dry clay or maybe jewelry pieces.”
From there, the work becomes increasingly technical. Vice sands and shapes foam, heats it to make it more flexible, and sometimes covers pieces with Worbla (non-toxic self adhesive thermoplastic) to reinforce them. She also experiments with different attachment methods — magnets, Velcro, straps — before painting and finishing the final product.
For the artists, inspiration can also be found amongst one another. Nova recalls how joining the group renewed a passion that had begun to fade after moving and struggling to find people to cosplay with.
“The group is always so passionate and full of support and love,” Nova said. “They’re all amazing people!”
That support extends beyond construction, with members selecting characters appropriate to the theme of the events they attend. From family-friendly appearances to themed community gatherings, Laredo Causeplay brings their craftsmanship directly to local audiences.
Garnica said seeing people encounter their favorite characters in person is one of the most rewarding aspects of the work.
“Both kids and adults seem to take so much joy in our costumes and seeing our artistry in person,” she said.
For Laredo Causeplay, every finished costume represents hours of research, experimentation, and collaboration. But the ultimate reward comes when the behind-the-scenes work gives someone else the chance to experience a little bit of fictional magic in real life.
(Photos by 4bidden Photography)
