Cosplay Confessions is a series we do to spotlight and get to understand the wonderful members of our cosplay community (and beyond!). This month we have RachniQueen!

HOW DID YOU GET INTO COSPLAY?

In 6th grade recess, my friends and I always roleplayed as InuYasha characters, eventually, my friend said her sister was attending a convention called MegaCon, in Orlando. I put together a Sango outfit, went with my friend, and fell in love.

WHY DO YOU LIKE COSPLAYING?

I get to express myself, utilize my craftsmanship, and be a photographer all in one! I also enjoy meeting new people who are just like me.

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR FAVORITE CHARACTERS TO COSPLAY SO FAR?

Psylocke has been an 8-year process for me, I'll always love cosplaying her. McCree was another favorite of mine to cosplay along with Alexstrasza.

HOW DO YOU PUT TOGETHER YOUR COSTUMES?

Sometimes they're handmade, sometimes they're dresses that are altered, sometimes they're pre-made that are then altered. It all depends on the budget, stamina, and difficulty of the costume! I prefer making everything by hand with worbla, a nifty sewing machine, and self-motivation.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE CONVENTIONS/EVENTS TO COSPLAY AT?

My favorite con is probably HolMat as of right now. It's my birthday convention and always a blast.

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE COSPLAY STORIES?

I've been cosplaying for 14 years, giving only one story out of hundreds or thousands is impossible. All of which, however, are filled with great friends and smiles.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU’VE HAD TO OVERCOME BEING A COSPLAYER?

Not feeling good enough or drama. It's unfortunate that the community has a lot of drama -- ignoring it and just doing your best to continue crafting and enjoying cosplay for what it is -- is the best approach. Just be yourself, love yourself, and most importantly, have fun.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE INTERESTED IN GETTING INTO COSPLAY?

Don't be afraid to ask questions and always be aware of your surroundings. Just have fun with it!

WHAT CHARACTER WOULD YOU LOVE TO TACKLE SOMEDAY?

Flemeth from Dragon Age 2 has been on my to-do list for... 6 years. One day.... one day. Zach Fischer's Deathwing - I made a breastplate a couple of years ago, I have yet to finish any other pieces for the design.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST COSPLAY ACHIEVEMENT?

Making my McCree armor in 2 hours. That was an experience. Winning best in show and judges award at Conneticon for choreographing and singing a skit called "Do you Wanna Kill the Batman?" as Harley, Joker and Ivy to the catchy "Do you Wanna Build a Snowman" from Frozen -- it was a fun crossover I did with two friends at the time.