#FeatureFriday with Zadra

Today's interview is with the adorable Zadra (Zadra bug on most social sites!) Read her awesome interview below!

My name is Michelle. I grew up in Brooklyn NY, but decided the city life wasn't for me, so I recently moved out to Pennsylvania with my boyfriend. We have a nice house with lots of space for crafting now!
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How and when did you get into cosplay?
Almost ten years ago, I lost my mother to cancer which gave me a huge incentive to improve my life and become more active. I lost about 100 pounds (I was overweight as a teenager) and after losing the weight, I felt comfortable enough to start cosplaying. I always had an interest in cosplay because I loved video games while growing up, but my low self esteem while overweight prevented me from attempting it.

How did you come up with your cosplay name?
Zadra has been a nickname I created and have been using since I was really young. Before I was cosplaying, it was my Gamer tag and general online alias everywhere.

What is your proudest cosplay accomplishment?
Building my first armored cosplay. Armor had been a dream for me since I started cosplaying, and I didn't really learn how until after about 5 years of cosplaying. My first armor costume was Anya Stroud from Gears of war. Wearing it for the first time was surreal! 

What cosplay(s) are you working on right now?
I'm currently working on Queen of ghosts Kerrigan, from Heroes of the storm. It's the biggest costume I've ever attempted, and it's actually a co-build between my friend Sayakat cosplay and I. We are both building it in different colors

Who is your cosplay idol/inspiration?
One of my biggest cosplay idols is Jackie Craft, she is one of the most amazing armor builders out there! She has very extensive knowledge about so many different materials. I always get super excited to see what her next project is.

​What is your dream cosplay?
Samus Aran's power suit armor. 

What is your favorite convention to attend and why?
MAGfest! Its the first out of state event I ever attended. The atmosphere and venue is friendly and unique, I've met some amazing friends there, and I LOVE that the main focus is gaming. The 24 hour arcade is a dream and the music performances and dances are the best.

Do you have any cosplay or convention pet peeves?
I can't stand getting asked or bothered for photos when I'm resting or eating. Sometimes people don't even take no for an answer and get angry. Cosplayers are still people, and they need time off. I also get really angry when people touch me or put their arm around me without asking first. This is something no one should ever do.

Do you have any horror stories or mistakes you've made that others can learn from?
I literally passed out while building my current project. I even have a video of it, because I was streaming on Twitch! I didn't eat breakfast that morning, and was really powering through my work since I'm on a deadline. I accidentally cut my finger with a blade, and when I saw the blood, I just fainted. ALWAYS make sure you eat before long work sessions, and take breaks. Don't overwork yourself!

Do you have any tips or words of encouragement for other cosplayers?
If you get stuck on something, step away and do something else. Taking time away will clear your head, and often help you come up with new ideas that you may not have thought of while getting stressed out. Refreshers are great, and that's how I get through all my projects. Most of all, when you are in your costume, just remember that the main purpose of cosplay is fun! Be kind to your fellow cosplayers, and don't be afraid to reach out to others to make new friends and share common interests.

Where can we find you on all things social?
Facebook
Twitch
Instagram: @zadrabug
Photos for this Interview provided by Cyberhead Designs, Dan Seiter, Stan Smith, and Twin Hearts Ink.

What a fantastic interview. I'm so inspired to get back to my big projects!