Raven from Teen Titans is a fairly easy and straightforward cosplay to do. You don't need a lot of parts, but it can take a lot of work. Some parts, such as the leotard, you can buy from a store and modify, while others, such as the belt, will have to be made from scratch. Once your cosplay is done, all you need is a wig and makeup!
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Create the cape and leotard
Step 1. Find lots of reference photos
You will need images of her from the front, from the back and in profile. The extra angles will also be helpful, but they are not necessary. Print the images or have them easily accessible on your phone, tablet, etc.
- Find close-ups of her accessories, such as face, belt, boots, etc.
- Consider having a few photos of other cosplays that have been made of her so you can see how she translates into real life.
Step 2. Cut the pieces for the cape
The body of the cape needs to be long enough to extend from the shoulders to the calves, plus an additional 2.5 cm (1 inch) for the seam allowance. The width of the fabric on the roll (approximately 152 cm or 60 inches) will be the width of the cape. You will also need a 17 x 22 inch (43 x 55 cm) piece of fabric for the hood and a larger piece for the body of the cape.
- Choose a deep purple or blue purple fabric. Velvet works well for this purpose, but you can also wear a bright spandex color, often labeled "superhero" spandex.
- Make sure to get extra material for the boot covers and cuffs.
Step 3. Hem the edges of the pieces
You will need to hem both edges 17 inches (43 cm) long on the hood piece. You'll also need to hem the bottom 60-inch edge of the cape and both side edges. Make a 1/2-inch hem. Sew it using a matching thread color and a straight stitch.
Step 4. Fold the hood in half across the width and sew along one of the narrow edges
Fold the hood in half so that the right sides are together. Sew along the 11-inch (28-cm) edges. Use a 1/2-inch seam allowance, a matching thread color, and a stretch stitch.
Step 5. Gather the top edge of the cape
Sew two straight lines along the remaining 60-inch (152-cm) non-hemmed edge of the cape. Use a 1/4 inch (0.61 cm) seam allowance for the first line and a 1/2 inch (0.6 cm) allowance for the second. Take both bobbin threads to one side of the cape, then pull them until the top edge of the cape is the same length as the bottom edge of the hood.
- Use a straight stitch and not an elastic stitch.
- Repeat this step for the top edge of the cape.
Step 6. Pin and sew the hood and cape together
Attach the straight bottom edge of the hood to the top gathered edge of the cape. Make sure the edges are aligned, then sew them together using a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Use a stretch stitch for this step.
For a more beautiful finish, go over the raw edges with a zigzag stitch
Step 7. Add some closure to the cape
Finally, you will add a clasp, but some type of support will still be recommended. You can sew a piece of black tape (or a matching color) to the seam on either side of the hood. You can also sew large clasps to the front of the cape instead.
Step 8. Buy or make the leotard
Buy a black leotard with long sleeves and a turtleneck; make sure it has no legs. Alternatively, you can make a leotard using a suitable pattern and matte black knit, spandex or leotard. If you are making the leotard from a pattern, extend the sleeves down toward the knuckles.
If you can't find a leotard with long sleeves, look for one complete with a turtleneck. Cut off the legs, using a swimsuit as a guide, then hem using black thread and a stretch stitch
Step 9. Modify the sleeves on the leotard
Cut the tops of the cuffs into points that reach the base of the middle finger. Then cut the bottom of the cuffs in a straight line that ends at the wrist. Hem the cuffs using black thread and a stretch stitch. Add a loop of black or clear elastic to each end.
The loops will be looped over the middle finger when wearing the suit, so make them loose enough
Step 10. Get a pair of opaque gray leggings
Raven has grayish skin, so you'll need to paint your face (and hands, if possible) to get the look right. You will also need a pair of opaque leggings in a matching color. Try on the makeup on your wrist to see how the color will look on your skin, then buy leggings that match that color. You will wear the leggings under the leotard.
- You will most likely have to search for leggings online. Some well-stocked costume and dance supply stores might also sell these.
- Leggings must be transparent to the waist. Don't go for leggings that offer "control" on the top that reaches down to the thighs. This will create a line along the thighs.
Step 11. Use the leftover material from the cape to make the cuffs, if desired
Cut a rectangle long enough to wrap around your wrist, plus 1 inch (2.5 cm) of seam allowance and 2x the width if you like. Fold it in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and sew the long edge using a 1/2-inch seam allowance, matching thread, and a stretch stitch. Assemble the cuffs by doing the following:
- Flip the tube over to the correct side.
- Fold one of the cut edges 1/2 inch (1 cm) inward.
- Tuck the rest of the cut edge into the tube to make a hoop.
- Sew along the seam using a straight or ladder stitch.
Part 2 of 4: Making the boot covers
Step 1. Get a pair of short black ankle boots
Boots need to reach a few inches or inches above the ankle, but below the calf. They have to be smooth, without any fancy bows or embellishments. Boots should fit loosely around your ankles. Rubber rain boots will work especially well for this purpose.
- If you can only find boots that lace up, remove the laces and glue the sides to the tongue so that everything is held in place.
- If the rain boots are too high, cut them off!
Step 2. Wrap the excess fabric from the cape around the boot
Hold the fabric snugly against the back of the boot and begin gripping it in the front and along the top and toe area. Extend the pattern about 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) above the top of the boot, also pinning it down. Make sure the backhand is pointing out.
- Repeat this step for the other boot.
- Alternatively, you can loosely sew the fabric around the boot.
Step 3. Take out the cover and cut off the excess fabric
When you remove the fabric, you will have a square or rectangular piece of folded fabric, with pins all around in the shape of a boot. Cut along the pinned area, adding a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Do it for both boots.
Remember to make the covers 3-6 inches higher than the boot
Step 4. Sew the boot covers
Sew along the edge that you cut, leaving the top and bottom edges unstitched. Use a 1/2-inch seam allowance, thread in a matching color, and a stretch stitch.
Step 5. Flip the covers over to the correct side
It would be a good idea to cut holes in the curved parts of the seam. This will allow you to put on the boot covers without problems.
Step 6. Slip the covers over the boots and glue them in place
Slip a sleeve over the corresponding boot. Make sure the bottom edge is flush with the top of the sole. Cut off the excess fabric, if necessary, or tuck it underneath. Secure the bottom edge of the cover to the boot with shoe glue or industrial glue (i.e. E6000 glue).
- Put pins through the sleeve and into the boot. This will help hold the sleeve in place while the glue dries.
- Repeat this step for the other boot.
Step 7. Hide the seam with a strip of black foam rubber
Cut a 1 to 2.5 cm (1/2 to 1 inch) wide strip of black foam rubber that is long enough to wrap around the base of the boot. Glue it to the boot in such a way that it covers the seam between the cover and the sole.
Use shoe or industrial glue for this step
Step 8. Fold the top of the cover
Fold the top edge inward first, then fold it down and out. This will give the boots that dropped, scrunchy look without showing the seam.
Part 3 of 4: Making the Belt, Arms, and Clasp
Step 1. Mix the resin and stain
Purchase a 2-part clear casting resin from a craft store. Prepare according to the instructions on the box, then mix in some translucent red dye. Keep moving the resin until no stain remains.
You can also use a small blob of red acrylic paint to color the resin
Step 2. Pour the resin into the molds
Buy some half dome molds that are made for casting resin. They need to be about 1 ½ to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm) in diameter. Cover the inside of each cavity with release agent, then:
- If the molds are very deep, you can fill them halfway, but be sure to fill the same amount in each cavity.
- If you can't find the correct size and shape resin molds, try silicone molds instead.
Step 3. Allow the resin to harden before removing it from the molds
Each brand of resin is a little different, so set times may vary. However, expect it to take about 24 hours.
Step 4. Create more gems using the same technique
You will need 6 to 8 for the belt, 2 for each hand, and 1 for the clasp. However, it might be a good idea to do a few extras, in case you screw something up.
To create an even more accurate cosplay, make the gemstones for the hands slightly smaller and the one for the brooch slightly larger
Step 5. Glue fabric or black felt to the gems
Trace the gems onto a piece of felt or black fabric. Cut the circles just inside the path. Glue each circle to the back of each gem with industrial glue (i.e. E6000). A good quality fabric glue may also work.
If your gemstones are translucent, consider painting the back with white, gold, or silver paint first. This will help to shine them
Step 6. Glue the gems to large gold rings
Buy a set of gold rings that are roughly the same diameter as the gems. Curtain rings (without the hooks) or belt rings will work especially well for this. Cover the bottom edge of each gem with industrial glue, then slide the ring onto it.
- You can also use curtain grommets instead. If they are not golden yet, you can paint them with spray paint.
- If you can't find any rings, outline each gem with hot glue, then paint the glue gold once it dries. You can also use a gold rope instead.
Step 7. Glue 6 to 8 gems to a gold chain
Buy a thick gold chain that is long enough to wrap around your hips without falling off. Glue the gems to the chain, making sure to center and space them evenly. Depending on the length of the chain, you should be able to place 6 to 8 gems.
- You can buy chains at fabric and arts and crafts stores.
- Use a sturdy wire cutter to cut them or use pliers to pry open one of the rings.
- Glue a strip of felt or black fabric to the back of each gem to further cover and secure the chain.
Step 8. Add a clasp and hook so that you can wear the belt
Purchase a large gold clasp or hook that matches the chain. Use a pair of pliers to open one of the last links in the chain and slide the hook into it. Use the pliers again to close it. Repeat the process for the ring part on the clasp.
If the links are difficult to open, or too thick for the chain, you will need to use a jump ring to secure them
Step 9. Use one of the gems to make the brooch
Place a large safety pin against the back of the gem. Cut a thin strip of fabric that is slightly shorter than the gem and slightly narrower than the inside of the safety pin. Cover the back of the strip with glue, then use it to secure the safety pin to the back of the gem.
You can use a flat safety pin, if you can find one that is long enough. It will still be advisable to add a strip of fabric on the base to give it more security
Step 10. Secure the 2 remaining gems to the ends of the sleeves
The gems have to go just above the part that covers the back of the hand. You can glue the gems directly to the fabric, but a better idea would be to secure them with velcro. This way, you can remove them to wash the leotard.
Step 11. Buy or create the forehead gem
You could find a similar diamond-shaped gem online. Otherwise, you can make it yourself using hot glue.
- Make a ball out of clay, such as play dough.
- Create a diamond-shaped hole in the clay using a knife.
- Fill the slit with hot glue, then smooth the back.
- Let the glue dry, then remove the gem.
- Paint the gem red with a permanent marker or nail polish.
- Let it dry, then seal it with clear nail polish or glitter sealer.
Part 4 of 4: Recreating the hairstyle and makeup
Step 1. Gather hair inside a wig cap
Braid or prep hair for wig wear as usual. Pick it up, then cover it with a wig cap. If you are going to wear contact lenses for this cosplay, you should put them on at this point as well.
- If you are going to wear contact lenses, look for purple or white ones.
- Don't put your wig on yet.
Step 2. Prepare your face
Wash your face, apply a toning lotion and then a moisturizer. It would be a good idea to apply a little primer as well; This will help plump up your pores and make your face appear smoother.
Step 3. Apply a light gray water-based foundation to the face
Get a container of water-based foundation and add a few drops of water. Apply foundation to face by patting with makeup sponge. Make sure to cover the ears, lips, and neck as well.
- Don't rub the sponge against your face.
- You can also try an aquamarine base instead. It will appear grayish on most skin types.
Step 4. Allow foundation to dry, then apply contouring
Using a soft fluffy brush and powdery gray makeup (i.e. matte eyeshadow), contour to hairline, temples, and under cheekbones. Use a smaller brush (i.e. eyeshadow brush) to contour along the sides of the nose.
If the foundation looks sheer, add a second coat before outlining. Make sure to let it dry too
Step 5. Apply highlighter
Use a large, clean, fluffy makeup brush to apply a shimmering highlighter to your forehead and upper cheeks. Switch to a smaller brush (ie for eyeshadow) and apply more highlighter to the nose and cupid's bow.
Step 6. Make up the eyebrows to match the wig
Try to wear the same shade as the wig or a little darker. You should be able to do this with just an eyebrow pencil, but you may also need to wear purple eyeshadow.
Step 7. Apply the eyeshadow using many shades of gray
Apply a medium gray eyeshadow to the crease and outer corners. Darken it using a smaller brush and a darker gray or purple color. Add a light gray color to the eyelid. Finish off with a bit of bright, clear eyeshadow on the center of the lids, the inner corners of the eyes, and the browbones.
White, light gray, or light purple colors will work for glitter
Step 8. Apply some eyeliner to the upper eyelid and the water line
Use a black eyeliner on the upper eyelid and white eyeliner on the water line. If you are skilled enough, you can even add cat eye liner on the upper eyelid to make the eyes appear larger.
Step 9. Finish the eyes with mascara and false eyelashes
Apply a coat of mascara first, then add the false lashes. Let them dry completely, then seal everything with a final coat of mascara.
Step 10. Apply black lipstick
Line the lips using a black eyeliner or lip liner. Fill them in with black lipstick. This one will probably end up looking dark gray, which will be fine for Raven.
Alternatively, you can leave the lower lip gray and just apply the lipstick on the upper lip
Step 11. Finish with makeup sealer spray
This is very important, as it will prevent makeup from running or sweating. If you can't find a spray sealer, use a powdered one instead. Apply generously to face, wait 30 to 45 seconds for it to set, then wipe off excess. It may look pale at first, but it will return to its normal tone after a few minutes.
Remember to seal the makeup on the ears and neck too
Step 12. Apply the gem to the face
Find or make a red diamond. Place it on your forehead, then trace it lightly. Set the gem aside, then remove the makeup within the contour with makeup remover. Apply prosthetic glue to both the front and back of the gem. Let the glue get tacky, then press the gem into place.
Make sure to apply prosthetic glue only to the area inside the outline
Step 13. Put on the wig
Find a plain purple wig that reaches the top of your shoulders. Put it on your head, then secure it with bobby pins. If you are wearing a front mesh wig, be sure to clean the makeup under the wig first.
- A wig with a widow's peak will work best, but you can wear one with a regular hairline instead.
- If you can't find the right wig, get a longer, straighter one, then cut it into a slanted bob, with the front part longer.
- If the wig is curly, you will need to straighten it using the hot water technique.
Advice
- If you don't trust casting resin, buy clear plastic ornaments that you can take apart. Break off the hook, then paint them red from the inside.
- You can purchase clear 2-part casting resin, resin stain, and casting molds online, foundry stores, and art supply stores.
- You can find good quality gray base and prosthetic glue at costume stores and online. Arts and crafts stores and party supply stores sell face paint that might work, too.
- Take your cosplay to the next level by acting as Raven. Study his scenes and memorize some of the things he says.
- Try to copy the way he walks, stands, and poses. This will be useful for photos.