Winning the Motor City Comic Con costume contest

I've been going to Motor City Comic Con for years, but this was the first time I entered the costume contest. I spent months on the build—a mix of sewing, 3D-printed pieces, and a lot of hot glue. The judges seemed to really like the detail work and the fact that so much of it was handmade. I didn't expect to win; I was just there to have fun and show off something I was proud of. When they called my name, I was honestly shocked. If you're thinking about entering a con contest, my advice: pick something you love, start early, and don't be afraid to mix techniques. Sewing, foam, 3D printing—it all works together. And even if you don't win, you'll have a costume you made yourself and a room full of people who get it.