Tis the season to be jolly, hang the holly, and oh! by golly get into the folly of...

You know, sometimes a line just doesn't go where you plan it to. But you get the idea. It's December, and everyone's thoughts are turning to that special person in the special outfit who brings us wonderful feelings of happiness.

Nope, not him. At least, not in the Critical Blast offices. We're still totally ready for Santa, sure, but it's our monthly cosplay model who is all the buzz today.

We couldn't wait until Christmas to unwrap this gift. So, please, gather round and feel the comfort and joy as Critical Blast presents to you our...

Critical Blast Bombshell, December 2018

Spittani

What is your interest in cosplay?

My interest in cosplay stems from my love of crafting. I absolutely love sewing and putting together outfits through creative problem solving. Adding to that, I love the freedom I have in cosplay. I can be any character I want, and it is amazing.

How did you get into cosplay, and what was your first cosplay experience?

My love for cosplay began when I attended Dragon Con for the first time in 2015. I was attending college not too far from Atlanta, and I had heard Dragon Con was the best party of the year. My best friend went every year, and finally convinced me to attend with her. I was able to put together two quick cosplays: Zatanna and Raven from DC comics. They were mostly store bought things I put together to make a basic look of the character. 

How has your cosplay evolved since you began?

My first cosplays were very basic and almost entirely store bought. Over the years, I have learned how to sew and foam craft. This has resulted in more hand-made cosplay in both the outfits and props. I am actually at the point where it doesn't take me too long to sew a suit together for a cosplay. Foam working still takes me a  decent amount of time though. 

Starfire (DC Comics' RED HOOD AND THE OUTLAWS)
Photo Credit: @ana.c.echols

What is your "secret identity" outside of cosplaying?

During the day I work as a Data Scientist! This basically means I program computers to do fancy math for me. I really love my job, because it lets me be creative with solving problems and still challenge myself with advanced analytics.

What kind of social or charity activities do you get involved in with your cosplay?

My social activities include playing Dungeons and Dragons with my friends weekly, as well as Overwatch with my online friends nearly every night. Both of these activities give me a nice break from my work life. One of my future cosplay goals is to make a complete version of my DnD character.

Do you make as much of your own costume as possible or rely on purchased materials -- and is that important overall to cosplaying?

When I started cosplay I bought a lot of my outfit because I didn't really know where to start with making them. Since then I have started making a lot of my own things, but some props I still purchase if they're well above my skill level. Overall, I don't think it's important whether someone makes or buys their cosplay. Cosplay is for fun and as long as the cosplayer has fun that's what truly matters.

What's your favorite cosplay, your "go to" look that you just love to put on and act out?

I would say my favorite character to cosplay is Starfire. I already have the super bubbly and sassy personality of Starfire, so when I put her on I get to be an extra version of myself.

Widowmaker (OVERWATCH)
Photo Credit: @icphotography340

Where can people go to find you online?

Social Media! I mostly post of Instagram (@spittani). I also use Facebook (Spittani Cosplays).