Every now and again I browse through Cosplay.com looking for cool photos and cosplay. When I came across the Cosplay.com user Ryoko-demon, however, I was completely blown away. Rarely do you see such a stunning collection of cosplay costumes and photos. Even though Ryoko-demon, whose real name is Lena Litvinova, is based all the way over in Russia, she agreed to let us spend some time talking to her about her costumes, and the cosplay scene in her home country.

Alltern8: How old were you when you got involved in cosplay? What got you into the hobby?

Lena Litvinova: I was 14 years old. At that time I loved anime, though I always prefer Disney's cartoons. In my childhood very often I wanted to try myself as favorite characters and thanks to cosplay my dream comes true.

Alltern8: Where did you learn your sewing skills?

LL: I learned my sewing skills myself by cut and try method. I make patterns myself too, or sometimes experiment with ready ones.

Alltern8: How long does it usually take you to complete a costume?

LL: I make very different costumes and time of making very often depends on the complexity of the costume itself. On average it's about a month.

Alltern8: How much do your costumes usually cost to make?

LL: Sometimes, in a terrible hurry I even forget to count up the costs. It also depends on the number of details. On average I think it's about 200 - 500$ or even more.

Alltern8: Have you won any cosplay or costume awards?

LL: Yeah. Me and my cosband R&R participate in different conventions all over Russia. We have many rewards for best costumes, best stage show and also photo-cosplay.