I basically like to make costumes, but always and inevitably, about half-way through sewing, a little voice whispers, "it's not competition quality", "it's not accurate and even if you think it's fun, you'll get slammed because it's not "from the movie"", etc. "Or you're just not good enough."

Nowadays, instead of straight re-creation, I want to add creativity and individuality. If it's a Star Wars costume, it will be my interpretation.

I can actually date when the phobia manifested clearly: a Costume Con in New Jersey when I did a Williamsberg gown, was shoved (by friends) up to get it judged as a hall costume, and basically snubbed and made feel worthless because I hadn't gotten the shoes right, and "What gave me the right to think I could costume?" This was the same convention where the woman who had woven the cloth for her underwear and clothing, won.

I just wanna have fun -- but only if I can put a stake through the heart of that little voice.