http://browse.deviantart.com/journals/?order=5&q=by%3Ahollymessinger deviantART RSS for in:journals sort:time by:hollymessinger en-us Copyright 2013, deviantART.com Sun, 19 May 2013 14:27:21 PDT deviantART.com http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss http://st.deviantart.net/minish/widgets/apple-touch-icon-precomposed.png http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/a-word-about-my-blocking-policy-341171896 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/a-word-about-my-blocking-policy-341171896 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 07:10:10 PST a word about my blocking policy nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
I blocked him because 99% of his gallery consists of bondage art, and I don't want my costume work to be associated with bondage art.

This is a topic I've chewed over often and at length; I don't approve of censorship, I don't think that the BDSM lifestyle is inherently sick or dangerous or degrading, and I've enjoyed my share of adult comics and literature (NOT 50 Shades of Puke, for the record).

But it's not what I do. My entire attraction to superheroines is that they are strong, not vi ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/not-interested-341114758 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/not-interested-341114758 Mon, 03 Dec 2012 19:04:12 PST not interested nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
Like, when some random stranger posts to my profile to tell me that he/she/it will "never" fave or comment on any of my work because I was a "jerk" to his/her/its friend and I should consider myself "ignored."

Mmm.... yeah, my heart is breakin' for ya, babe. Especially since I have no idea who you are or who your friend is or what the supposed offense might be. What did you think that was gonna get you, other than blocked?

Actually I have some inkling what might have prompted the off ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/corset-for-sale-corset-for-sale-328239342 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/corset-for-sale-corset-for-sale-328239342 Thu, 20 Sep 2012 08:45:58 PDT corset for sale! corset for sale! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
So this baby is now for sale--I never wore it, and I made a new pattern I like better for this project, sooo...

https://www.etsy.com/listing/109992499/black-satin-corset-24-inch-waist-ready ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Pin-up-Catwoman-304772374 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Pin-up-Catwoman-304772374 Sun, 27 May 2012 17:48:00 PDT Pin-up Catwoman nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
:thumb300356177:

And of course it's awesome--go look at the whole set of 50's Rockabilly Batman characters: http://denism79.deviantart.com/gallery/29283587

Of course Catwoman is always my favorite, and I loved the Bettie Page reference, and I've long doodled over the idea of doing a corset like that, and a friend of mine has been hot-to-trot on Pinup photography lately, soooo....

I dug out some leftover black satin I'd been tripping over lately, and patterned out the corset and the lining and basted the interlining to the face, and then I had to halt because I didn't have a busk the right length, ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/PVC-jacket-and-skirt-now-available-for-purchase-296325531 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/PVC-jacket-and-skirt-now-available-for-purchase-296325531 Sun, 15 Apr 2012 17:11:19 PDT PVC jacket and skirt now available for purchase nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
:thumb282444800:

Available to buy in my Etsy shop:

http://www.hollymessinger.etsy.com.

Very sleepy this evening! ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Catwoman-PVC-hood-for-sale-292639675 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Catwoman-PVC-hood-for-sale-292639675 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:04:53 PDT Catwoman PVC hood for sale nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
:thumb281893088:

It's black stretch PVC, fully lined, with a silver buckle under the chin (not visible in this picture).

You can see more pics, and purchase here in my Etsy shop:

Sold! Thank you Melanie! ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Harley-Quinn-fleece-hats-in-my-Etsy-shop-292612351 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Harley-Quinn-fleece-hats-in-my-Etsy-shop-292612351 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:01:04 PDT Harley Quinn fleece hats in my Etsy shop! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
:thumb291112127:

You can pick one up for yourself in my Etsy shop!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/96243754/jester-hat-fleece-two-color ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/comicon-goodies-291567867 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/comicon-goodies-291567867 Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:18:55 PDT comicon goodies! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
* leather masks in standard black as well as lots of pretty "pop" colors.
* Harley Quinn fleece hats
* black PVC vinyl Catwoman hood
* leather Wonder Woman tiaras and gauntlets
* "Fifth Quinntet" appliqued bowling shirt
* corsets!
* capes!
* babydoll tees!

.... and whatever else I can come up with before Saturday! Drop by if you'll be in the area, especially if you're in costume—I love to collect photos of cosplayers! ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/tired-but-satisfied-287409284 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/tired-but-satisfied-287409284 Sun, 26 Feb 2012 18:58:44 PST tired but satisfied nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
Still, it took six and a half hours to make that pair of pants. Six and half hours! Nobody better try to tell me how I can do a "simple and easy" version of this costume or I'm going to hunt them down and smack 'em with my drafting ruler.

Nevertheless, the pants are done, the top is done... I'm probably looking at another four days of work for the ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Batgirl-in-bondage-misogyny-really-is-a-big-deal-283461299 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Batgirl-in-bondage-misogyny-really-is-a-big-deal-283461299 Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:18:54 PST Batgirl in bondage-- misogyny really is a big deal nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
http://theliteraryassassin.blogspot.com/2012/02/batgirl-in-bondage.html ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/cosplaying-a-different-race-from-your-own-279624877 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/cosplaying-a-different-race-from-your-own-279624877 Sun, 15 Jan 2012 16:33:04 PST cosplaying a different race from your own nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
I've been researching a new character for a story. She's the offspring of Chinese prostitute and a British sailor, born in Shanghai in 1870 or so. One of the theoretical themes of said story is of ostracism and finding a place of your own.

Partly out of interest in researching the story and partly because I'm a big geek who likes to dress as my OC's, I've been considering ways to make my very white-girl face look more Asian, or at least Eurasian. Looking at photos on the internet of mixed-race actresses and models demonstrates the incredibly wide variety of genetic recombinations you can get from an East-West hybrid. I'm esp ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/need-a-catwoman-screen-cap-277234378 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/need-a-catwoman-screen-cap-277234378 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 09:23:04 PST need a catwoman screen cap nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2012-2013 *hollymessinger
ETA: This is the stupidest costume design I've ever seen. Just FYI. I know there are limited ways to jazz up a black bodysuit visually, but these seam lines make no sense whatsoever. I'll be fixing some of the stupidness in my pattern, so don't be shocked if some of the details are different. ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/squeeee-276312802 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/squeeee-276312802 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 13:00:31 PST squeeee! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
Phew. Am I too old to go round baring my midriff, I wonder?

Starting on that post-holiday diet as soon as I have my New Year's bubbly and molten chocolate cake! ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/lenses-276287315 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/lenses-276287315 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 10:37:29 PST lenses! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
I got so excited, last night I sat down and started cutting out a pattern for my new Catwoman hood. I want to try making this one out of leather.

Whee! ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/costumer-cosplayer-LARPer-271476503 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/costumer-cosplayer-LARPer-271476503 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 20:12:33 PST costumer, cosplayer, LARPer? nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
But she was really vehement, in her comments, about NOT being called a cosplayer. She makes the costumes, she wears them, but she insists she is a COSTUMER, not a COSPLAYER.

I don't really know what to make of this. I mean I know when I think "cosplayer" my brain defaults to the kids in che ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/now-taking-custom-orders-again-269127139 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/now-taking-custom-orders-again-269127139 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 20:02:19 PST now taking custom orders again! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
Batgirl/Batwoman costume in PVC:  http://www.etsy.com/listing/86177054/bat-fatale-costume-in-pvc-woman-girl

Santa Harley coat: http://www.etsy.com/listing/86175253/sexy-clown-winter-coat-santa-harley

Victorian circus acrobat Harley Quinn corset dress (wow that's a mouthful!):  http://www.etsy.com/listing/86178586/victorian-circus-acrobat-clown-corset

and the ever-popular red nightie from Mad Love: http://www.etsy.com/listing/65197044/mad-love-red-nightie

As you were!

P.S.--Some listings say U.S. customers only, but I will make exceptions from re ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/and-in-other-news-258741170 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/and-in-other-news-258741170 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 19:04:44 PDT ... and in other news... nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
I had an agent ask to see my manuscript this week. (The Curse of Jacob Tracy, from which this story http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/gallery/25446671#/d2zogqh; and this story http://www.etsy.com/listing/68068671/end-of-the-line-by-holly-messinger-curse; are taken.) That was pretty cool. I had an agent ask to see a space opera novel I wrote back in college, but I put off sending it to him, for some reason I can no longer remember ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/the-Star-Spangled-Man-with-a-Plan-256066466 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/the-Star-Spangled-Man-with-a-Plan-256066466 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:12:39 PDT the Star Spangled Man with a Plan! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/art/USO-256066749 ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/quit-begging-255698190 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/quit-begging-255698190 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 12:13:18 PDT quit begging nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
It reminds me of the time a guy asked me to critique his very long and virtually unreadable essay. I read the first 2-3 pages, made some general, but generally applicable, comments, and told him what needed work. He was furious I didn't read the whole thing. I'm like, what, I have to drink the whole carton of milk to know it's bad?

Then there was the former boss who howled ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/worst-pattern-ever-253324203 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/worst-pattern-ever-253324203 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 18:11:35 PDT worst. pattern. ever. nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
Edit: My husband says he's never liked that design, anyway, and why am I wasting my time on a character I don't really want to cosplay?

...

...

Anybody want a red cape and belt? You ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/vacation-then-Halloween-244347878 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/vacation-then-Halloween-244347878 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 05:31:47 PDT vacation, then Halloween! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
Reservations for Halloween orders start August 2nd. As always, I will have a limited number of slots this Halloween season. Order early!

My standard costumes (Harley Quinn, Wonder Woman, etc.) can be ordered through my Etsy shop http://www.hollymessinger.etsy.com. For custom orders, contact me. (For Catwoman, Batgirl, most PVC character bodysuits figure $420-$500.)

Questions? FAQ are on my Policies page:

http://www.etsy.com/shop_policy.php?user_id=5279328

P.S. REMINDER! Starting Augus ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/hot-243900498 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/hot-243900498 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 14:02:01 PDT hot nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
Not the kind of weather to inspire working with a lapful of silk. I've got alterations to make on 2 tai chi uniforms this week, then my own to make. I'm having a hard time caring. We're gonna drive to Dallas in this? Seriously? I hope that conven ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/time-effort-and-cost-217342896 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/time-effort-and-cost-217342896 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 10:50:05 PDT time, effort, and cost nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
I've made maybe forty Harley Quinn hats over the years, and I've got the method as fine-tuned as possible. I can make a standard one in about four hours.

This week I made a whole new Harley hood, with newly-designed ears and collar, that took me about four days.  A good chunk of that time was simply sitting and staring at my reference photos, or at the sketch sheet, or at my reflection with a piece of droopy paper held against ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/now-is-the-time-217135925 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/now-is-the-time-217135925 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 07:47:02 PDT now is the time... nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
I have a few projects to finish up for July, and then in August I'll start taking Halloween orders. So those of you who are thinking about big custom jobs might want to get your deposits together, so I can get started on those around the first of August. I always get bombed with casual costume-seekers in September, and I want to be sure to get my repeat customers scheduled and accounted for.

I'll be on vacation the last week or so of July, so don't be alarmed if you don't hear from me.

Enjoy your summer! ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/quandry-218198539 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/quandry-218198539 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 20:31:06 PDT quandry nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
Kittens, it's gorgeous. Thin, stretchy, lightweight, and smooth matte black like the skin of a balloon.

So, what do I want to do with it?

Catwoman, which I've always wanted to do a la 'Relentless'/Cool Girls: http://www.eddiewong.net/2006/08/25/takara-catwoman-in-cool-girls/

or...

Batgirl? I'm awfully partial to Cassandra Cain's look here: http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ljif3wBrNU1qbujox.jpg

I'm not wild about capes, and I already have some boots that would work for Catwoman.... but there's something so appealing about that yellow bat and the wrist-wraps.

So whaddya thi ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/summer-sewing-218879262 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/summer-sewing-218879262 Mon, 09 May 2011 08:24:35 PDT summer sewing! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
I'm optimistic I'll actually get a few things made this year, since I'm home full-time.

At the top of the list:

1. A white eyelet tank/shell/blouse. I had one of these decades ago with a scoop neck and princess seams that buttoned up the front. It was painfully cute. I've bought at least two pieces of eyelet and at least that many pieces of white muslin, batiste and/or crinkle gauze, but this has never got past the acquisition stage. ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/du-barry-gowns-219311201 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/du-barry-gowns-219311201 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:02:20 PDT du barry gowns nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
:thumb189354454:

:thumb189355095:

:thumb189355640:

Prices start at $500 for polyester or acetate taffeta. Silk prices approx. $100 more. No two dresses will be exactly the same.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/72342632/mistress-du-barry-gown

Thanks! ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/they-finally-caught-me-219507478 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/they-finally-caught-me-219507478 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:35:19 PDT they finally caught me nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
Kinda funny, don't you think? I've been doing this for a number of years now--since 2002, more or less, and they finally got around to telling me I couldn't. Not me personally, mind you, just Etsy. And not, apparently, everyone on Etsy who is offering custom costumes. I guess Etsy is a big enough pond to be worth lobbing dynamite into.

I am really disappointed about this. I do of co ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/wicked-cool-Harley-Quinn-makeup-tutorial-220350376 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/wicked-cool-Harley-Quinn-makeup-tutorial-220350376 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 09:32:57 PST wicked cool Harley Quinn makeup tutorial nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNVeY0c5dX4&feature=related ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/some-thoughts-about-Poison-Ivy-220448898 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/some-thoughts-about-Poison-Ivy-220448898 Fri, 04 Mar 2011 11:09:28 PST some thoughts about Poison Ivy nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
It's kinda what I expected, and kinda not. It's equal parts Steampunk/Victorian, anime/lolita, and 40's cigarette girl/burlesque. Considering the online circles I hang out in, I shouldn't be surprised.

One of the things that bugs me about Poison Ivy in general, and cosplay versions of her in particular, is the monotony of the palette. You have green.... and light green.

Adventurous types play off the orange of her hair, but that's tricky. Not many women can, or will, wear a true carrot-red hair color. (But tweaking the color scheme is ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/springtime-orders-anyone-220643617 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/springtime-orders-anyone-220643617 Thu, 24 Feb 2011 18:20:08 PST springtime orders, anyone? nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
~Classic Harley Quinn:  $350 spandex/ $400 PVC

~Arkham Asylum Harley Quinn: $450 full costume (boots & lingerie not included); or corset only: $275

~Ame-Comi Harley Quinn: $600

~Batgirl: $500

~Mad Love Negligee:  $95

~Fifth Quinntet Bowling Shirt: $105

For more information or to order, see my Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/hollymessinger?ref=hdr
(Prices do not include shipping--I am happy to ship worldwide but order fast, shipping is going to go up this summer!)

Anything you want that you don't see? Contact me!

EDIT:  I am working on an extensive catalog and ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Batgirl-hood-cowl-mask-pattern-now-available-221416975 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Batgirl-hood-cowl-mask-pattern-now-available-221416975 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 14:16:02 PST Batgirl hood/cowl/mask pattern now available! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/#/d383sp7

Now available in my Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/listing/66797824/batgirl-hood-cowl-pattern-only

I think that covers it.

:batman: ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/order-up-221946356 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/order-up-221946356 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 08:12:31 PST order up! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2011-2013 *hollymessinger
Wonder Woman http://www.etsy.com/listing/65180895/wonder-woman-costume-custom-made

Classic Harley Quinn http://www.etsy.com/listing/39829983/classic-harley-quinn-costume-custom-made

Arkham Asylum Harley Quinn http://www.etsy.com/listing/50591081/arkham-asylum-harley-quinn-costume
(or just the corset, if you like)

For the first time, Ame-Comi Harley Quinn! http://www.etsy.com/listing/65179996/ame-comi-harley-quinn-costume-custom

Something else you want that you don't see there? Send me a message!

Ordering info and policies here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/hollymessinger/policy ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/now-that-s-more-like-it-222394214 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/now-that-s-more-like-it-222394214 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 07:59:18 PST now that's more like it nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100902200252/batman/images/d/d9/Harley.jpg

Yeah, I could get into that.

*Yeah, I know I'm probably the last one to see this. But to be fair, I get pretty sick of looking at Harley images every day. ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/I-love-corsets-222450090 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/I-love-corsets-222450090 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 08:58:18 PST I love corsets nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
I got the corset all put together on Sunday. It is gorgeous, gorgeous, shimmering, emerald green, with gold-tone busk snaps and grommets. It will have trim of gold, russet and rust. The completed outfit will have pantalettes of some kind (still working out the logistics of that) and a bustled overskirt.

Still have the binding to do, top and bottom, and I can't do that unti ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/christmas-goodies-222867366 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/christmas-goodies-222867366 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:48:48 PST christmas goodies nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
So here's the available loot. On these items I can do up to a misses' size 16 or so, given the fabric I have left (click the links to see a sample):

1. Harley Quinn hood w/ collar in PVC -- $110
2. SOLD!  Harley Quinn velvet coat, lined w/ poly fleece
3. SOLD! Arkham Asylum Harley Quinn corset in PVC

4. Accessories--I may also do some shoes, gloves, and/or leather masks, d ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/end-of-the-season-announcement-223539734 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/end-of-the-season-announcement-223539734 Sat, 16 Oct 2010 19:39:39 PDT end of the season announcement nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
I know, I know.

I just need a rest. As usual I took on a tad too much this year. Batgirl has been great fun but as usual I basically made the silly thing twice--since I spent as much time unmaking and revising as I did simply making. Being a perfectionist is like that.

Furthermore, what I really want to do with the end of my year is WRITE. Here we are in the middle of this lovely steampunk upswing and I can't get my damn Victorian/Western/horror/fantasy/gothic/adventury story done. I have one story left to finish (in a continuum of six) and then I c ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/works-in-progress-and-fan-art-223854000 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/works-in-progress-and-fan-art-223854000 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 08:16:30 PDT works in progress, and fan art! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
I laid out my ouija/spirit board last night, and did the calligraphy embossing. It looks totally awesome. I have a few details to add and the aging/distressing to do, and then pictures!

I finished the wet-look Harley Quinn costume I was doing for a client. Pics of that to come...

Batgirl is about 1/2 done. Probably finish that this weekend. Then some odds and ends... spare shoes, alterations on a client's costume. Eager to clear all that away because I have at least 2 costumes I want to finish, ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/milestones-tombstones-throwing-stones-224283828 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/milestones-tombstones-throwing-stones-224283828 Sun, 05 Sep 2010 16:54:46 PDT milestones, tombstones, throwing stones nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
Four Halloween costumes down, two to go! Yay!

. . . .

Yeah, life is kind of boring right now. The best thing I can say is the weather took a plunge toward cool. The last couple nights have been around 50 degrees and we've been sleeping with the windows open. It's quite lovely.

While I was procrastinating sewing this morning (and enjoying the cool morning air) I swept off the porch, stacked all the firewood into a single rack, and cleaned off the crap that had accumulated on the porch all summer--plastic buckets, dirt, leaves, cobwebs, bark, old birdhouses. The place looks almost presentable.

I think ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/what-my-time-is-worth-224892506 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/what-my-time-is-worth-224892506 Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:50:42 PDT what my time is worth nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
For the rest--and you know who you are--take this to heart: Do not, do not, do not, under any circumstances, write to me and ask me to make you a costume for less than my stated rates.

Don't do it. Not to me, not to any other crafter.

I don't care how long you've been cosplaying.

I don't care how much you love the character.

I don't care how many fans you have, or what cons you regularly attend, or what message boards you visit.

I don't care how fervently you promise to promote me. I don't need your promotio ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/steampunk-con-progress-report-226389428 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/steampunk-con-progress-report-226389428 Mon, 17 May 2010 08:51:41 PDT steampunk con, progress report nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
I also bit the bullet and sacrificed my original underwear corset for parts. I made a new, pale pink corset in RECORD time--as in, probably ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/upcoming-events-226436944 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/upcoming-events-226436944 Fri, 14 May 2010 11:19:08 PDT upcoming events nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
First, at my day job I got asked to do some blogging for one of the many conventions our company stages every year. This one was for the trucking industry. Now, I know zip about trucking, but I adore conventions, no matter what the stripe. I was more than glad to spend the day out of the office, hang around in a swank hotel, eat free food (which was quite good, incidently) and take notes. The presentations I was covering had to do with the economy, which oddly enough I find fascinating. So that was a nice change of pace.

While at the convention, my goo ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/happy-birthday-to-me-and-other-random-notes-227274317 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/happy-birthday-to-me-and-other-random-notes-227274317 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 06:35:52 PDT happy birthday to me, and other random notes! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
Some good things have come my way this week. Yesterday I made the final payment on my car loan! Yay! That frees up a substantial chunk of my budget to allocate to other debts. I'm striving to be completely debt-free by the time I'm forty.

Partly in preparation for the Con, but mostly because I've gotten very sloppy in my eating habits, I re-quit sugar and wheat 12 days ago and I've lost 3.5 pounds! Which is doubly great considering it's PMS time. I feel so much better when I'm not dumping white carbs into my system.

AND... ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/important-bulletin-about-underwear-227684461 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/important-bulletin-about-underwear-227684461 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 07:08:04 PST important bulletin about underwear nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
I just want to say, I bought one of these yesterday, and it's the greatest smoothing garment I have EVER worn.

Lightweight, comfortable, gentle shaping without compression; no elastic dents at the edges (there was some *slight* denting at the thighs, but far less than usual); the shoulder straps keep it up AND I can still wear my own choice of bra with it.

And from a stitcher's point of view... the things they can do with fabric these days are simply amazing.

This has been a public service message from Holly Messinger's superhero closet.

E ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/springing-into-action-228562334 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/springing-into-action-228562334 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 10:05:45 PST springing into action! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2010-2013 *hollymessinger
However, since the first of January I've been bustling with ideas and energy.

I've already taken one commission for a Harley Quinn costume that I plan to finish by the end of the month, and then immediately afterwards I'm starting on a Deadpool costume for a repeat client--more on that as plans solidify.

At the end of March I will be attending Planet Comicon in Kansas City, and for that I plan to make an Arkham Asylum Harley Quinn costume (spoken for--don't ask!), a Power Girl costume (available for purchase) and for ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Victorian-1890-s-dress-for-sale-230292399 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Victorian-1890-s-dress-for-sale-230292399 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 12:12:09 PDT Victorian 1890's dress for sale nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger
This was a learning experience for me. There are things I don't like about the way it's constructed, but the overall effect is nice.

It's a size 10 or twelve, if you're interested. Some pictures are in the gallery at left, or you can see more at my Etsy shop.

hollymessinger.etsy.com ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/for-my-clients-friends-and-anyone-who-happens-by-230402114 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/for-my-clients-friends-and-anyone-who-happens-by-230402114 Sat, 26 Sep 2009 19:34:42 PDT for my clients, friends, and anyone who happens by nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger
Needless to say we've all been under a bit of strain lately, and I have had some of my sewing time taken up with other things.

It's hard to say anything about a thing that I can say very little about.

I'm just sad. And pulled kind of thin. ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Ame-Comi-Harley-home-stretch-230435959 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Ame-Comi-Harley-home-stretch-230435959 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:59:38 PDT Ame-Comi Harley home stretch nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger
I was just not happy with the thigh cut-outs on that thing. They were too long, not round enough, and they were too low on the thigh. That I could have lived with, but when I tried on the suit (the client and I are the same height and vertical proportions) it was too short in the lower body and the thighs weren't long enough. Grr. One disappointment I can live with, but three? (I had also hoped to make the leg cut-outs, well, cut-out!)

So I spent the last 3 nights ripping off the lower torso and legs, repatterning, and rebuilding. The results were much more satisfactory--the proportions are fixed and we have real ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/evidence-of-productivity-230587786 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/evidence-of-productivity-230587786 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 19:36:36 PDT evidence of productivity nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger
This thing is kicking my ass! It officially gets bumped to the "most complicated costume I've ever done."

But I think I've got it scared now.

This was a special commission requested by a client, back in May. I'm ashamed to say I kept pushing it back in favor of the easier orders, but I guess it's just as well, since it's taking me twice as long as I had planned for.

At least I charged adequately for this one. I often don't when I make things for the first time. ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Catwoman-suit-for-sale-230892677 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Catwoman-suit-for-sale-230892677 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:44:41 PDT Catwoman suit for sale! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger
You can view it here!

It's the only one--no alterations, returns or exchanges. ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/that-s-all-folks-230991806 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/that-s-all-folks-230991806 Wed, 19 Aug 2009 08:31:05 PDT that's all, folks! nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger
That doesn't mean I won't be posting more stuff this fall--:icontheprincessbee: has already put in her orders for three new items, and I have a few items I plan to complete on spec (the Burlesque Ivy, for instance, plus a new Victorian ballgown, a gentlemen's topcoat for my very patient spouse, and some other things). However, I won't be taking any new orders until aft ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/and-for-my-next-trick-231120171 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/and-for-my-next-trick-231120171 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 08:35:34 PDT and for my next trick nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger
Generally speaking, I hate acetate. It shreds, it fades, it pulls apart at the seams. But this stuff I got is pretty good quality, and since I have it basically free, it's the ideal thing for a quickie costume.

So now I'm thinking I'll do a Victorian/Saloon girl version of Poison Ivy, loosely inspired by northernbanshee's "Ruby and Jade":

http://northernbanshee.deviantart.com/art/Ruby-and-Jade-101307803

If the artist doesn't min ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/my-whole-house-is-sparkly-231120226 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/my-whole-house-is-sparkly-231120226 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 08:02:56 PDT my whole house is sparkly nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger
The pictures really don't do it justice. The soft colors make it seem to recede, and the sequins don't photograph right without correct lighting. It needs a far better photographer than I to really make it pop!

I'll be vacuuming up glitter and sequins for the next five years. ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/SO-BUSY-231362863 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/SO-BUSY-231362863 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:54:05 PDT SO BUSY nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger
-- the sequined costume for theprincessbee;
-- a replica costume of the Ame-Comi Harley statuette for a client;
-- a black linen skirt with silver embroidery for a pirate-themed wedding;
-- a sword case/carry bag for one of my kung fu brethren;
-- a pair of replacement booties for a dear little cosplayer who wore out her boot covers at San Diego Comicon over the weekend (that's why you shouldn't buy cheap costumes!!);

more or less in that order!

Plus I have two budget Wonder Woman costumes cut out, waiting to be assembled, my Catwoman hood and gloves that need redone, and a mostly-fi ]]> http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Hollywood-Harley-Quinn-in-sequins-231446436 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/Hollywood-Harley-Quinn-in-sequins-231446436 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 07:25:08 PDT Hollywood Harley Quinn in sequins nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/finally-some-art-posted-231446451 http://hollymessinger.deviantart.com/journal/finally-some-art-posted-231446451 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 07:22:34 PDT finally some art posted nonadult journals/personal hollymessinger http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/h/o/hollymessinger.jpg?1 Copyright 2009-2013 *hollymessinger