Cosplay Events at JAFAX 2023

For several years now, JAFAX has welcomed a diverse array of cosplayers to the event, and hosted a Cosplay Contest to award creativity and performance. If you've ever thought you'd love to dress up as your favorite character from animé, games, or manga, we'd love to see your fandom brought to life!

JAFAX Cosplay Weapons Policy

To keep the event safe and fun for all whom attend, please follow the rules below. Note that these rules are enforced by JAFAX Staff and Convention Security. Unapproved items may be confiscated. This policy applies both to attendees and vendors at all times during the event:

1. BB, cork, airsoft guns, or any weapon that operates based on gas, spring, or are NOT allowed under any circumstances (even unloaded).
2. Plastic toy guns that shoot foam projectiles (such as Nerf guns) are allowed, but must be brought to our IRT staff to be peace-bonded.
3. All prop guns must have orange-painted tips and/or otherwise be clearly marked and identified as fake. There must not be any confusion that the prop might be considered real by others (especially the Grand Rapids Police).
4. Metal blades or anything sharp (edged or pointed) are NOT allowed. This includes apparel such as ice skates. Even if the blade isn't sharpened. All prop melee weapons must be wooden, foam, or any soft material. Example: A Kunai from Naruto.
5. If you are purchasing a blade from the Dealers Room, you must have the blade boxed, tied closed, and the purchase must be taken immediately to your car or hotel room for the duration of the convention.
6. Completely wooden implements are allowed. This includes canes, staffs, wands, or practice swords such as bokken and shinai.
7. Firearms and explosives of any kind (including fireworks) are NOT allowed, this includes weapons that were real at one point (eg: the firing mechanism was removed).

JAFAX 2023 Cosplay Fashion Show

Day of Show: Saturday June 10th, 2023
Time of Show: 4:30PM
Location: Main Events

Rules:

• This event is for any person who wants to showcase their cosplay on stage.
• Any cosplay can enter even if you did not make it yourself. Standard JAFAX cosplay rules apply and safety rules apply still.
• If you need assistance getting on and off stage please let us know and we can accommodate your specific needs.
• Sign up will be at BOTH C80s Thingamabobs and Disfusional Studios booths. Booths can be found inside the vendors hall, Friday and Saturday.

JAFAX Cosplay Crafting Competition

If you wish to prove your skill at crafting costumes, why not sign up for our Cosplay Crafting Competition below?

JAFAX Cosplay Crafting Competition Rules and Information

Day of Show: Saturday, June 10, 2023
Time of Show: 5:30PM
Location: Main Events

Rules

• At least 50-75% of the cosplay entered must be handcrafted, depending on the category entered. The cosplay may be worn by an accompanying model, but the award will be presented only to the creator.
• We, the judges, reserve the right to disqualify any applicants who do not meet these requirements.
• Cosplay entrances of both eastern and western media will be permitted to enter. However, original characters and self-created variants of other pre-existing characters will not be permitted to compete. Exceptions will be gender-bent and humanoid characters (Pokemon, Digimon, etc.)
• You must provide a reference photo of the character you are cosplaying. Pictures should be in color, and provide a good view of the character you are representing. Official art only – no personal design sketches or fanart are allowed.
• All images should be printed, so that the judges have a reference to compare against. Don't bring in books or figures, as useful as they are, we can’t hold onto them after all entrants have been interviewed. Pictures of your creation process are also encouraged, but not required.
• All costumes will be judged prior to the masquerade, according to a specific set of guidelines (see below for scoring). Judging will be by appointment only, and if you are unable to make your appointment, we cannot judge you! If you are excessively late, you risk being disqualified. Please contact us if you have any scheduling problems!
• Registration will begin online, closing June 7^th. Whatever spots are left open at the time of the convention will be available for “at convention” registration in Cosplay Ops/Repair.
• By joining the cosplay competition you agree to have your picture taken to be referenced for final judging.

If your cosplay does not meet the requirements to enter in the Craftsmanship Competition but you would still like to participate, please sign-up for the fashion show segment of the event. To sign up, please stop by Cosplay Ops/Repair during the convention.

Scoring

Judging scores will be determined by the following 5 categories, all judged on a 1-10 rubric (with 1 being "not at all" and 5 being "Excellent"):

• Accuracy: attention to detail, elaboration
• Construction: seams, serging, clean edges, proper fit, flattering cut
• Creativity: originality, development
• 2D to 3D Adaptation: resembles reference image, is easily recognizable
• Overall Aesthetics: outward presentation, makeup, wig work, is cosplay complete

Award Levels

Your level is determined by the amount of experience you have. Be as honest as possible. Please be aware, these are guidelines of categories. We encourage you to challenge yourself and don't underestimate your abilities.

1. Novice: At least 50% of the cosplay must be handmade/self-crafted
   1. First time crafting cosplay
   2. First time entering a contest
2. Journeyman: At least 65% of the cosplay must be handmade/self-crafted
   1. Have completed more than 3 cosplay
   2. Have previously entered cosplay competitions
3. Master: At least 75% of the cosplay must be handmade/self-crafted
   1. Have completed 5 or more cosplay
   2. Have placed in previous contests

Best in Show: This award is chosen based on which cosplay the judges believe exemplified the greatest display of skill and craftsmanship. All entrants from all other categories are automatically eligible to win this prize.

Judges Picks: These awards will be given on judge's discretion.

Good luck and happy creating!

If you have any questions, concerns, or comments, please reach out to our Cosplay Coordinator

If you wish to enter, fill out and submit this form: