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Bespoke Offerings

Services & Commissions

Every project is a collaboration between you and Heidi. Here is a full overview of what Chimera Costumes offers — with transparent pricing and process details for each service.

Costume Commissions

Heidi accepts costume commissions on a limited basis — cosplay replicas, original fantasy designs, historical reproductions, and everything in between. Every commission begins with a consultation to understand your character, reference materials, timeline requirements, and construction approach. All patterns are custom-drafted to your measurements; there are no off-the-shelf shortcuts.

The base rate is $65 per hour plus materials and shipping. Because every costume is different, Heidi provides a project estimate after reviewing your reference images and measurements before any commitment is required. Typical timelines range from 6 weeks for a simple costume to 6+ months for a complex armoured build.

Commission Pricing Guide

Base hourly rate$65/hr
Simple cosplay (15–25 hrs)$975–$1,625 + materials
Complex cosplay (35–60 hrs)$2,275–$3,900 + materials
Armoured full costume (50–80+ hrs)$3,250–$5,200+ + materials
Custom pattern drafting+$975–$1,625
Rush project surcharge+50% on labour
Deposit required50% before work begins

Custom Corsets

Corsetry is one of Heidi's deepest specialisms — she has been building bespoke steel-boned corsets for over a decade. Every corset commission begins with an in-person consultation and a comprehensive measurement session covering over 20 points of the torso. The base price of $1,820 covers 28 hours of skilled craftsmanship; the final price varies based on material choices, boning configuration, and fitting complexity.

All corsets use quality steel boning — spiral steel for curved seams, flat steel for the busk and support panels. The interlining is traditional coutil for stability. A typical commission involves 3–4 fitting sessions over 8–16 weeks.

Corset Pricing

Base corset commission (28 hrs)$1,820
MaterialsAdditional — quoted per project
In-person fittingsRequired — 3–4 sessions

Wedding Gown Commissions

Wedding gown commissions carry a 25% premium on top of the standard hourly rate, reflecting the extended timeline, additional fitting sessions, and the stakes involved in bridal work. Heidi recommends a minimum 8–12 month lead time; 6 months is the absolute minimum. Rush bridal commissions are not accepted.

Sewing Lessons

One-on-one sewing lessons are available for all skill levels — absolute beginners to intermediate sewers wanting to advance their skills. Sessions run 2 hours, meeting weekly or fortnightly, with assignments provided between sessions. Hourly project consultations are also available for experienced sewers who hit a specific technical challenge. A monthly sewing circle at the studio has occasional openings.

Photography & Modelling

Heidi is an experienced model who has collaborated with professional convention and studio photographers throughout her career. Collaboration enquiries should include a portfolio of previous work and contract details. She brings professionalism, punctuality, and a drama-free attitude; references are available on request.

Alterations & Repairs

Existing costumes and garments can be altered, repaired, upgraded, or modified. Send photos and a description of the work required via the contact form for a quote. Common requests include fitting alterations, broken zip replacement, split seam repair, and adding structural elements like boning to existing garments.

Use the contact form with character reference images, your measurements, target event date, and approximate budget. Heidi responds to all commission enquiries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a costume commission cost?

The base rate is $65 per hour plus the cost of materials and shipping. A simple cosplay runs 15–25 hours ($975–$1,625 + materials); a complex ball gown or fully armoured costume can run 40–80+ hours. A 50% deposit is required before work begins; the remainder is due on completion.

How long does a commission take?

Most costumes take 4–16 weeks from deposit to delivery depending on complexity. The waiting list typically extends several months from initial enquiry. Rush projects (50% surcharge) may be available depending on the current schedule.

Do you require in-person fittings?

For corsets: yes, in-person fittings are mandatory — accurate fit cannot be achieved remotely. For garment commissions: a mockup fitting is strongly preferred if geography allows. Remote commissions are possible with a very detailed measurement set; Heidi will discuss what's feasible for your project.

What payment methods do you accept?

PayPal, Venmo, CashApp, and major credit cards. The 50% deposit secures your slot in the queue and covers initial materials; the final balance is due before shipping.

Can you make a costume for a child?

Yes — children's costume commissions are accepted. Heidi will require the same measurement set as adult commissions and parents or guardians must be present for any in-person fittings.

Do you do alterations on costumes you didn't make?

Yes — bring or ship your costume with a description of what needs to be done. Alterations are quoted individually based on the work required.

How do I start a commission?

Use the contact form with your character reference images, target event date, your measurements (or willingness to attend a fitting), and your approximate budget. Heidi will respond with availability and a project estimate.

17+Years Experience
$65Per Hour Base Rate
100%Custom Made
Commissions Open