Fancy Dress Fabric

If you are on a strict budget, Polycotton and Felt are your best friends. Polycotton is very affordable, comes in every colour imaginable, and is incredibly easy to sew, making it perfect for basic tunics and dresses. Felt is fantastic for quick accessories, hats, and props because it does not fray, meaning you can cut it out and use it immediately without hemming.

Cosplayers love fabrics that hold their shape or offer high stretch. Scuba and Neoprene are fantastic for structured garments and mimicking armor because of their spongy thickness. Leatherette (faux leather) is perfect for historical or fantasy belts and props. For form-fitting superhero suits, four-way stretch Spandex or Lycra is the absolute industry standard.

Faux fur can be messy if not handled correctly! Always cut faux fur from the back (the knitted base) using a sharp craft knife or small scissors, taking care not to cut the long hairs of the ‘pile’ on the front. When sewing the pieces together, tuck the fur inside the seam as you go, and use sewing clips instead of pins to hold the thick layers together.

This depends entirely on the fabrics you use. Standard polycottons and satins can usually be machine-washed on a cool, gentle cycle. However, costumes featuring metallic foils, faux fur, or heavily glued accessories should only ever be spot-cleaned or carefully hand-washed to avoid melting the synthetic fibres or ruining the shiny finishes.