Conversations with Paige Orton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Paige Orton. 

Hi Paige, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In all honesty, I started making costumes and cosplaying because I didn’t like the reality I was living in. I was in an emotionally abusive relationship so I would make costumes to feel like I was someone else, who had an intricate and amazing backstory or cool powers, someone who wasn’t me. Cosplay then over time morphed into a hobby that allowed me to express myself, honor the characters I love, and push myself to the limits in my sewing and crafting skill. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been an easy hobby to pick up, when I started, I was unemployed and in 19K worth of debt so I was making costumes out of thrifted fabric scraps, popsicle sticks, and poster board. I was also living with a partner who would call costume making a waste of time and money so I felt like all factors were against me. I was having to teach myself how to craft and sew and how to work within a very small budget. I believe these struggles have actually made me a stronger costume maker because I have knowledge in unusual materials and techniques. On top of that, I’m bipolar and suffer from panic disorder so finding the motivation to start a project can be extremely hard. Even after I finish a project, my anxiety fights me on whether or not it’s actually good enough. I’m learning how to work past these hurdles every day. 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a costume maker and cosplayer specializing in video game and anime costumes. I’ve competed and judged cosplay contests all over the state of Arizona and can tell when a costume has been made with genuine love for a specific character. I am known for using budget materials but making them look expensive, especially in my latest competition costume which was all upcycled and thrifted items. 

I’ll be making a cosplay guest appearance at Kikori Con (March 4-5) in Flagstaff, AZ at the Little America Hotel.

Contact Info:

• Email: illuminaughtycosplay@gmail.com
• Website: illuminaughtycosplay.carrd.co
• Instagram: Instagram.com/illuminaughtycosplay
• Other: Twitch.tv/Illuminaughty 

Image Credits
Apologetic Cosplay Photography
Danielle La Photography
Madonia Photography
Gruff and Geek