I’m originally from Springfield MA and currently reside in Abingdon MD.
I’ve been officially cosplaying for over two years, but I’ve always loved making costumes ever since I was a kid!
I am currently cosplaying The Punisher, Dwalin the dwarf and The Shredder.

Jeff Thomas Cosplay

1. Who or what inspired you to cosplay?

I’ve always wanted to go to a comic con, and when I saw how loads of people dress up like all types of characters I was inspired to try it out myself!  I’ve always wanted different costumes growing up (Robocop, Batman, The Predator), but I could never find them or buy them, but then I discovered people were MAKING THEM! I was intrigued and wanted to learn how!

2. What do you do when you aren’t cosplaying? (hobbies, community service, or work)

When I’m not cosplaying I’m generally working. I drive tractor trailers and install appliances. I love spending time with my wife during free time, and also enjoy video games, reading, and practicing my woodworking skills. All my props are made out of wood, and I love working with it!

3. What costumes have provided the biggest challenge and rewards so far and why?

Biggest challenge cosplay was Dwalin. I broke my sewing machine stitching the last piece. The make-up and bald cap take 3 hours to put on. I built everything myself, including the beard and hair. The biggest reward was definitely Shredder. Especially since the new turtle movie came out a lot of people hated the way Shredder looked in it, and when I wear it at cons people literally have thanked me for building it the way I have. I took a little from all my favorite versions of Shredder and built my version of Shredder. It’s a big crowdpleaser.

4. What is the best advice you would give someone new to cosplaying?

The best advice I would give to anyone starting cosplay is to make a budget. It can be very expensive. Also don’t let anything prevent you from building the costume you want (race, gender, weight etc). Most importantly HAVE FUN!

5. What is one thing the cosplaying community can do better when it comes to dealing with each other?

The cosplay community needs to stop causing drama. I’ve had run ins with some drama queens and immature people. I’ve just separated myself