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Fox tails available again
General | Posted 14 years agoI opened new orders of fox tails (in all available colours) in my online store :3
http://www.beetlecat.artfire.com
For the moment nothing else is available still. If I do a good job on my other commitments I may open snow leopard tails as well but for them moment I have to keep it simple so I do not get bogged down ^_^ Ears, unfortunately, are totally out of the question right now. I do not expect I will be able to bring them back for a few months yet.
http://www.beetlecat.artfire.com
For the moment nothing else is available still. If I do a good job on my other commitments I may open snow leopard tails as well but for them moment I have to keep it simple so I do not get bogged down ^_^ Ears, unfortunately, are totally out of the question right now. I do not expect I will be able to bring them back for a few months yet.
Madonna Unicorn for sale
General | Posted 14 years agoSelling my unicornish fursuit! Auction is being held over FA and will last 6 days
Head over here: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/7286457 for all the info!
Head over here: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/7286457 for all the info!
Tee Shirt Sizing Help
General | Posted 14 years agoI hate fursuit sandles
General | Posted 14 years agoYup.
I have hated them since ever and, honestly, I'm just curious what the feelings are regarding sandals. Why do people/you use them?
My feelings are:
- If the feet are made correctly then they do not need sandals. Feet are shoes and should act like such.
- Unless it fits in to a larger costume/props, sandals look BAD. I cannot even explain how bad most sandals look. Why spend money on feet then cover them up with a huge "too fragile to wear" sign?
- What is the point of keeping the feet in perfect shape if you wear sandals every time you go out? No one sees pawpads in that case anyways. Just throw parade soles on the bottom and be done with it.
- If a commissioned fursuit needs so much upkeep that you cannot WALK ON ITS FEET then the maker needs to think a bit more about what they offer.
Feel free to raeg back if I offended anyone - I'm really just curious if there are other people out there like me. While we are at it, feel free to post any other fursuit styling abominations you personally hate.
I have hated them since ever and, honestly, I'm just curious what the feelings are regarding sandals. Why do people/you use them?
My feelings are:
- If the feet are made correctly then they do not need sandals. Feet are shoes and should act like such.
- Unless it fits in to a larger costume/props, sandals look BAD. I cannot even explain how bad most sandals look. Why spend money on feet then cover them up with a huge "too fragile to wear" sign?
- What is the point of keeping the feet in perfect shape if you wear sandals every time you go out? No one sees pawpads in that case anyways. Just throw parade soles on the bottom and be done with it.
- If a commissioned fursuit needs so much upkeep that you cannot WALK ON ITS FEET then the maker needs to think a bit more about what they offer.
Feel free to raeg back if I offended anyone - I'm really just curious if there are other people out there like me. While we are at it, feel free to post any other fursuit styling abominations you personally hate.
Beetlecat Originals Shirts
General | Posted 14 years agoI have decided that I am going to make shirts. When ready, they will be for sale online as well as given out free to future fursuit customers.
I will NOT be going through something like Cafepress but will go through an actual screenprinter. If anyone with any experience would like to explain to me relevant things (like stock numbers/sizes/colours/suppliers/printers etc) then I am all ears!
I already know what shirt style(s) I would prefer to use (by American apparel), but there are SO MANY print makers that finding a single one that would be best for me/will use what I prefer/has examples for me to see is proving to not be the 'single stop Google' that I had hoped for XD
I will NOT be going through something like Cafepress but will go through an actual screenprinter. If anyone with any experience would like to explain to me relevant things (like stock numbers/sizes/colours/suppliers/printers etc) then I am all ears!
I already know what shirt style(s) I would prefer to use (by American apparel), but there are SO MANY print makers that finding a single one that would be best for me/will use what I prefer/has examples for me to see is proving to not be the 'single stop Google' that I had hoped for XD
FC 2012 Recap
General | Posted 14 years agoThe good:
- the new convention center is WAY better than the Fairmont in terms of space plus keeps the good location for food. Be willing to walk a little bit (not even that much.. a few blocks) and you can have anything you want.
- I liked the FC:U show much better this year. Looks like the extra year (vs the sudden overturn of management right before FC last year) really allowed them to get a much better handle on it. All I really want now is for people to submit more of the epic quality content that they used to. I plan to submit something myself actually.
The really good:
OMG Party Floor!! Although I really really really miss how the Doubletree party floor would lead out onto the patio and create a huge area to hang out in, I am grateful to see the hotel at least allowing stuff like this again. So many hotels have been crashing parties, or not allowing them past 10pm, or basically just being total douches about it, that I was seriously worried that the party atmosphere of conventions was dead.
So the resurgence of this just makes me happy.
The bad:
- Sorry to those who had parties in the Hilton as I never ever walked completely down the hallway connecting it to the con space XD Also sorry to those who got a room there not realizing how the majority of everything happened on the Marriott side (ie Everyone)
the really bad:
- The fursuit lounge. Seriously wtf? I walked in there before the con really started and was seriously surprised how bad the set up was there. Yeah the outdoor area is nice, but it is not a substitute for a reasonable location and matchbox size. This needs to be fixed for next year.
Suggestions:
- Rather then have the hotel lobby be the defacto 'hang out/meet up area', grab some couches and a table and set up in the con area near where both hotels meet up to the convention center space. That area was underused but a few homey touches could change that.
- the new convention center is WAY better than the Fairmont in terms of space plus keeps the good location for food. Be willing to walk a little bit (not even that much.. a few blocks) and you can have anything you want.
- I liked the FC:U show much better this year. Looks like the extra year (vs the sudden overturn of management right before FC last year) really allowed them to get a much better handle on it. All I really want now is for people to submit more of the epic quality content that they used to. I plan to submit something myself actually.
The really good:
OMG Party Floor!! Although I really really really miss how the Doubletree party floor would lead out onto the patio and create a huge area to hang out in, I am grateful to see the hotel at least allowing stuff like this again. So many hotels have been crashing parties, or not allowing them past 10pm, or basically just being total douches about it, that I was seriously worried that the party atmosphere of conventions was dead.
So the resurgence of this just makes me happy.
The bad:
- Sorry to those who had parties in the Hilton as I never ever walked completely down the hallway connecting it to the con space XD Also sorry to those who got a room there not realizing how the majority of everything happened on the Marriott side (ie Everyone)
the really bad:
- The fursuit lounge. Seriously wtf? I walked in there before the con really started and was seriously surprised how bad the set up was there. Yeah the outdoor area is nice, but it is not a substitute for a reasonable location and matchbox size. This needs to be fixed for next year.
Suggestions:
- Rather then have the hotel lobby be the defacto 'hang out/meet up area', grab some couches and a table and set up in the con area near where both hotels meet up to the convention center space. That area was underused but a few homey touches could change that.
FC meme
General | Posted 14 years agoHotel:
Marriott
Arrival/Departure:
Will be there Wednesday but will likely be outside of the con space until Thursday. Leaving Monday.
Mode of Transportation:
Car
Major Plans at the Con:
Nothing in particular. Somehow shit happens. if you want to meet up there let me know and we can plan.
Gender:
Chicko
Status:
Married. Not like I've ever been propositioned at a con anyways :o
How old are you:
28
How many Fursuits are you going to bring/wear:
Bringing 5. Wearing two of those (Beetle and Madonna). Husband has two including Django and the Panda will be worn by a friend.
Attending parties:
I would like this
Do you drink:
I enjoy a good buzz.
Do you smoke:
Cigarettes no.
Can I buy you a drink:
I won't complain. Though I can't imagine an FC where I'm ever actually near a real bar :0
Are you attending any panels:
Maybe. Probably not unless something unusual catches my eye since cons tend to always be the same old over again.
Rules of engagement (physical Contact out of Suit):
Normal standards apply. Hugs if I know/like you/you are not stinky but otherwise I try to steer clear of con crud so I'd rather not handshake.
What's the best way to find you:
Text if you got it but twitter (either beetlefursuits or bcatbite) works great.
Do you do trades:
eehh... feel free to offer but chances are I've already pinged you if I'm interested.
Can I hug or snuggle with you:
*eye roll* if you can then you'd already know it
How tall are you:
5'2"
If I see you, how should i get your attention:
Say "Beetle." and wave/approach. Y'know, like a normal person.
Can I take a picture of ya:
Sure. Just ask first.
Anything to add:
I can be abrupt at cons. Sorry, I'm like that in real life too. If I know you socially then I'm great fun but if we've never hung out for an extended period/I know what you look like in real life then I might not remember you and will need reminding. Please do not take it personally if I do not want to chat at the moment.
Please please PLEASE don't call me in with some pleasantry then start on a single sided conversation about the fursuit you are making. To be honest, I don't care. I go to cons to get away from the work for a while and have fun with friends, not to be a sounding board or advice column. And unless you have some amazing new technique to share, then your cartoon fox is nothing new or interesting to me. Not to say I refuse to talk about suits at all, I do enjoy it actually, but there's a social limit that needs to be respected.
Two Fursuits
General | Posted 14 years agoSince everyone is giving up their counts of how many suits they finished in 2011, here's mine.
2 'scrappy' partials (random creations of head and tails to use up materials before I moved)
1 commissioned partial (The Rainfurrest mascot)
2 Commissioned fullsuits (Rowan and Bolt)
1 personal fullsuit (Panda for our wedding video)
1 personal totally artistic suit (madonna. Made in about a week and a half for Califur)
2 new technique suits (Beetle and Django)
Not counting any refurbishings, premades, or suits that are not quite done yet (ie the snow leopard that should be finished in a week here), I made a total of TWO commissioned fursuits this year. And one partial. and four personal suits.
Wow. I think I won XD
--
Let me just say that immigrating to another country WILL screw up your whole year. Especially if you have a wedding to plan in another country while you are at it. I moved in middle March (after spending much of January in the USA. so had just a couple months to get Rowan made and my affairs in order before I was no longer legal to work) and the whole process took until the end of September. SEVEN months :0
I do not need to justify myself but if anyone is curious why the personal project suits vs commissioned suits are at a 2:1 ratio, there it is XD For about eight months of this year I was either not allowed to work at all (for money. I was not allowed to have an income but personal projects ie spending money was okay) or had no access to my workshop. I did manage to do a fair amount of ears/tails on preorder and various odd projects and revamps so I did not do nothing, but DAMN was it a busy year 0_0
All I can say is you better really love someone before you enter such an upheaval of your life with them ROFL. And I never plan to EVER do it again ^^
--
Anyways, 2012 is looking great! I'm not a person that tends to make more than 8 or 12 suits even on a good year (I like to take my time and make them the best they can be) but this latest one will be finished in not too much longer and it is going to be spectacular ^_^
And I have no plans to slow down after that. The legal shit fest is all over and my life might be the most stable now than it has EVER been since I founded my fursuit company :D :D
And the enforced time off really helped me to cement some ideas and try new things and slow down and think about what could be better - hard to do when there are constant deadlines to meet. And I feel my artwork really is going to show the difference and stand out from the crowd.
Expect good things from Beetle in 2012.
2 'scrappy' partials (random creations of head and tails to use up materials before I moved)
1 commissioned partial (The Rainfurrest mascot)
2 Commissioned fullsuits (Rowan and Bolt)
1 personal fullsuit (Panda for our wedding video)
1 personal totally artistic suit (madonna. Made in about a week and a half for Califur)
2 new technique suits (Beetle and Django)
Not counting any refurbishings, premades, or suits that are not quite done yet (ie the snow leopard that should be finished in a week here), I made a total of TWO commissioned fursuits this year. And one partial. and four personal suits.
Wow. I think I won XD
--
Let me just say that immigrating to another country WILL screw up your whole year. Especially if you have a wedding to plan in another country while you are at it. I moved in middle March (after spending much of January in the USA. so had just a couple months to get Rowan made and my affairs in order before I was no longer legal to work) and the whole process took until the end of September. SEVEN months :0
I do not need to justify myself but if anyone is curious why the personal project suits vs commissioned suits are at a 2:1 ratio, there it is XD For about eight months of this year I was either not allowed to work at all (for money. I was not allowed to have an income but personal projects ie spending money was okay) or had no access to my workshop. I did manage to do a fair amount of ears/tails on preorder and various odd projects and revamps so I did not do nothing, but DAMN was it a busy year 0_0
All I can say is you better really love someone before you enter such an upheaval of your life with them ROFL. And I never plan to EVER do it again ^^
--
Anyways, 2012 is looking great! I'm not a person that tends to make more than 8 or 12 suits even on a good year (I like to take my time and make them the best they can be) but this latest one will be finished in not too much longer and it is going to be spectacular ^_^
And I have no plans to slow down after that. The legal shit fest is all over and my life might be the most stable now than it has EVER been since I founded my fursuit company :D :D
And the enforced time off really helped me to cement some ideas and try new things and slow down and think about what could be better - hard to do when there are constant deadlines to meet. And I feel my artwork really is going to show the difference and stand out from the crowd.
Expect good things from Beetle in 2012.
Christmas Break
General | Posted 14 years agoI have been in Canada since the 21st. I do not have access to my business email here so everything will have to wait until I get back in the USA on the 1st.
Happy holidays! I hope everyone has had a great Christmas season so far ^^
Happy holidays! I hope everyone has had a great Christmas season so far ^^
New Policy Regarding DTD *ToS Update*
General | Posted 14 years agoA small policy change but an important once because failure to comply will result in a small surcharge ($50) being added to your bill. Yes it is high for the service, that is so that it is a sufficient deterrent :3
As of this moment I now require at customers to tape up all of the seams on their duct tape dummies. This will not apply to any DTD currently in my possession but WILL apply to ones I receive on or after January 1st 2012
Here is a quick photo tutorial I made on this subject for your enjoyment :3
http://beetlefursuits.tumblr.com/po.....-tape-dummy-as
Taping DTD is not something that is hard or that bothers me to do, but I have realized that there is really no reason for me to do something over and over that each customer is already perfectly well equipped to do.
As of this moment I now require at customers to tape up all of the seams on their duct tape dummies. This will not apply to any DTD currently in my possession but WILL apply to ones I receive on or after January 1st 2012
Here is a quick photo tutorial I made on this subject for your enjoyment :3
http://beetlefursuits.tumblr.com/po.....-tape-dummy-as
Taping DTD is not something that is hard or that bothers me to do, but I have realized that there is really no reason for me to do something over and over that each customer is already perfectly well equipped to do.
Big Cat vs Wolf
General | Posted 14 years agoSay I was thinking of making a few premade head/handpaw/tail partials over some of next year - all the same species. The main colour will be white but with detailing in various unique and bright colours (ie not natural fur patterns).
But the most important question before I start designing this in my brain-space is "should these partials be canine or feline?"
canine head shape: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/4436375/
feline head shape: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/6536368/
Canine would have claws and a wolf tail. Feline would have no claws and a longer cat tail.
EDIT:
Okay thanks guys! The vote looks pretty clear - much more clear-cut than I expected actually.
30 votes for the kitties and 10 for the wolves
I won;t be doing this for a while yet, but a small teaser is that there will be 4-5 of them. With large amounts of white and done in the same 'style' as my wolfish unicorn, Madonna: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/5864888/
But the most important question before I start designing this in my brain-space is "should these partials be canine or feline?"
canine head shape: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/4436375/
feline head shape: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/6536368/
Canine would have claws and a wolf tail. Feline would have no claws and a longer cat tail.
EDIT:
Okay thanks guys! The vote looks pretty clear - much more clear-cut than I expected actually.
30 votes for the kitties and 10 for the wolves
I won;t be doing this for a while yet, but a small teaser is that there will be 4-5 of them. With large amounts of white and done in the same 'style' as my wolfish unicorn, Madonna: http://www.furaffinity.net/view/5864888/
Tumblr
General | Posted 14 years agoOn a whim, I started up a Tumblr.
http://beetlefursuits.tumblr.com/
I've just been messing around so far but I'd like advice on 1) what to do with it and 2) how to find other cool people so I can watch their Tumblrs ^^
http://beetlefursuits.tumblr.com/
I've just been messing around so far but I'd like advice on 1) what to do with it and 2) how to find other cool people so I can watch their Tumblrs ^^
How to Chose a DSLR Camera lens?
General | Posted 14 years agoI'd like to get a new lens for my Nikon D5100. An upgrade from the bare basics zoom it came with (AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR). However I've never bought a lens and am really unsure what is 'good'.
This is mostly for taking mostly posed photos of fursuits so I can't quite figure out if I should get a standard lens or a wide angle since the focal length is right about in the middle of both of those. I'm thinking standard just because it'll be cheaper? I do like the perspective fun I can have with a wide angle but maybe that's not suitable for showing off a piece of art?
No idea! I'm hoping some of you SLR camera folks well versed in photographing fursuiters indoors will let me know more. Ultimately I'd like to get them both but I think the budget can probably only handle one at a time.
This is mostly for taking mostly posed photos of fursuits so I can't quite figure out if I should get a standard lens or a wide angle since the focal length is right about in the middle of both of those. I'm thinking standard just because it'll be cheaper? I do like the perspective fun I can have with a wide angle but maybe that's not suitable for showing off a piece of art?
No idea! I'm hoping some of you SLR camera folks well versed in photographing fursuiters indoors will let me know more. Ultimately I'd like to get them both but I think the budget can probably only handle one at a time.
Wolverine Partial by Midori for Sale
General | Posted 14 years agohttp://www.furbuy.com/auctions/1027824.html
Selling my wolverine! Head, hands, feet and tail. I just have no room for him anymore :( and too many suits of my own to wear during the once or twice a year that I actually go to a convention.
Starting the auction really low with no reserve :3
http://www.furbuy.com/auctions/1027824.html
Selling my wolverine! Head, hands, feet and tail. I just have no room for him anymore :( and too many suits of my own to wear during the once or twice a year that I actually go to a convention.
Starting the auction really low with no reserve :3
http://www.furbuy.com/auctions/1027824.html
Preorders End Dec 1st
General | Posted 14 years agoA reminder that I will be removing ALL of my ear/tail preorders on December 1st. All orders will be completed at that time so they can be shipped before Christmas.
I will likely leave preorders down until after Christmas as that time of year is rather busy given how FC is right around the corner.
If you have been planning on buying, you have two days left in which to do so!
http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/Beetlecat
I will be leaving up my fur scraps and any other premade items I happen to have, but anything under the preorder tab is going out.
I will likely leave preorders down until after Christmas as that time of year is rather busy given how FC is right around the corner.
If you have been planning on buying, you have two days left in which to do so!
http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/Beetlecat
I will be leaving up my fur scraps and any other premade items I happen to have, but anything under the preorder tab is going out.
Fursuit for Sale
General | Posted 14 years agoVery unique Wolf fursuit by Latin Vixen for sale!
http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150705367089
The reason for sale is simply that he is not being used and the character it was intended to portray has changed. The suit has maybe 6 hours of wear total including starring in a fun fan video at Midwest Furfest.
3 days left - With a bidder and no reserve so he is officially out of here! So better throw your hat into the ring now if you're interested ;D
--
EDIT: I did not make this costume. And it's not something random that I'm promoting lol - It is owned and being sold by my husband.
http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150705367089
The reason for sale is simply that he is not being used and the character it was intended to portray has changed. The suit has maybe 6 hours of wear total including starring in a fun fan video at Midwest Furfest.
3 days left - With a bidder and no reserve so he is officially out of here! So better throw your hat into the ring now if you're interested ;D
--
EDIT: I did not make this costume. And it's not something random that I'm promoting lol - It is owned and being sold by my husband.
Help build my website FAQ!
General | Posted 14 years agoHere is an overview of what questions I have asked in my new FAQ so far. Please let me know what I should add to it before I put it on my website ^^
General:
How do I make a fursuit
How do you make your heads/make your jaws/make your paw/etc?
How much time does it take to build a fursuit.
Do you use real hair/fur/leather in your costumes?
Where do you buy your fur?
How much fur does it take to make a fursuit?
Care:
Can I wash my fursuit?
Do I need special products to clean my fursuit?
Can I take it to the dry cleaners?
About my fursuits:
What kinds of padding will you install into a costume? Muscle padding?
Will you add a zipper for bathroom purposes?
Will you add a zipper for bathroom purposes?
Where do I see out? How good is vision?
Are your products hypoallergenic?
How much dexterity is lost in the paws?
Will you make me a Red XIII/pikachu/Link Wolf/Amaterasu Cosplay costume?
Can I supply the fur for a commission?
Do you sell unfurred head bases?
Do you do trades?
Can you make costume props?
What do you NOT make?
What DO you make?
Buying:
What do you charge for a fursuit?
Do I need a reference sheet?
How do I buy?
How do I pay?
Do I have to pay Paypal fees?
Do your suits come with a warranty?
How do you ship?
What if I come into hard times and have to cancel the order?
What if I just don't finish paying?
Can I change my character's design after paying a deposit?
What if I do not like the suit you make?
Does filling out a fursuit quote form mean that I'm in?
Is it first come first served?
What characters are you most likely to pick?
Can you give me a deal?
Why are you always closed for commissions?
Why do you not accept commissions for ears/tails/paws?
Why do you not hire help? I would love to help!
General:
How do I make a fursuit
How do you make your heads/make your jaws/make your paw/etc?
How much time does it take to build a fursuit.
Do you use real hair/fur/leather in your costumes?
Where do you buy your fur?
How much fur does it take to make a fursuit?
Care:
Can I wash my fursuit?
Do I need special products to clean my fursuit?
Can I take it to the dry cleaners?
About my fursuits:
What kinds of padding will you install into a costume? Muscle padding?
Will you add a zipper for bathroom purposes?
Will you add a zipper for bathroom purposes?
Where do I see out? How good is vision?
Are your products hypoallergenic?
How much dexterity is lost in the paws?
Will you make me a Red XIII/pikachu/Link Wolf/Amaterasu Cosplay costume?
Can I supply the fur for a commission?
Do you sell unfurred head bases?
Do you do trades?
Can you make costume props?
What do you NOT make?
What DO you make?
Buying:
What do you charge for a fursuit?
Do I need a reference sheet?
How do I buy?
How do I pay?
Do I have to pay Paypal fees?
Do your suits come with a warranty?
How do you ship?
What if I come into hard times and have to cancel the order?
What if I just don't finish paying?
Can I change my character's design after paying a deposit?
What if I do not like the suit you make?
Does filling out a fursuit quote form mean that I'm in?
Is it first come first served?
What characters are you most likely to pick?
Can you give me a deal?
Why are you always closed for commissions?
Why do you not accept commissions for ears/tails/paws?
Why do you not hire help? I would love to help!
Website is back up! & Current Customers please read this :)
General | Posted 14 years agoIt's new! Check it out!
I lost all of my old website's info (long story) so I am currently rewriting the FAQ but it will be back up before too long and significantly more detailed than before.
And I have a bit of work to do before it will stop showing the host's URL in the bar rather than my own but that is a matter for another time XD
http://beetlecatoriginals.com
CUSTOMER INFORMATION UPDATE:
I wrote up a basic queue status/timeline/payment schedule that I would like everyone that is getting a costume from me to read! Please let me know if I mucked anything up with your order ^^
http://www.beetlecatoriginals.com/category/status/
I lost all of my old website's info (long story) so I am currently rewriting the FAQ but it will be back up before too long and significantly more detailed than before.
And I have a bit of work to do before it will stop showing the host's URL in the bar rather than my own but that is a matter for another time XD
http://beetlecatoriginals.com
CUSTOMER INFORMATION UPDATE:
I wrote up a basic queue status/timeline/payment schedule that I would like everyone that is getting a costume from me to read! Please let me know if I mucked anything up with your order ^^
http://www.beetlecatoriginals.com/category/status/
Artist Meme
General | Posted 14 years agoTaken from 
temperance
- What sort of artist would you most identify yourself as?
Sculpter
- What would be your secondary identity?
Mixed Media Artist ^^
- What forms of art do you dabble in, but don't excel at?
Putting pen to paper XD Anything that is not 3D
- How would you describe your 'style'?
Stylized realism/semi-realistic. I kinda don't like being classified with other pure realistic makers TBH XD Not personally a fan of the taxidermy head style unless the whole body is beastly/inhuman to match.
- What medium do you favor most?
Clay? I don't use it much as an end product but it is always the most relaxing. I often dislike having an armature inside to hold me back. (I'm rather impressionistic in my painting style)
- What are your favorite subject matters?
Animals
- What are your least favorite subject matters?
machinery/technology
- List your Artistic Strengths
Stylizing realism. Shading. Sculpting (teeth, noses).
- List your Artistic Weaknesses
Backgrounds. Tech.
- Which of the above weaknesses would you most like to see improve?
I don't generally like backgrounds in pictures (I like minimal ones with just enough to set the scene) so tech by default.
- Adult Content. . . yes/no?
As long as it's not anything that actually touches any private areas and then goes on a walkabout to hug people. In 2D, adult work can be either good or (more usually) overly numerous and not well done. I've never drawn anything more than a pin up myself.
- Adult Subject Matter you favor?
More interested in the emotion behind a drawing then seeing graphic bits and goo everywhere. Bits have their place, but, to me, the most sexy pieces are more about what they don't tell you than what they do.
- Schooling/Training received in the arts?
Self taught.
- Schooling/Training you'd still like to have?
More interested in business courses than art courses, but I'd take something regarding movie quality work for sure.
- Would you consider yourself prolific, or a 'quality over quantity' sort of artist?
Hells no! I work on what I want when I want and as fast as I want (within reason). Which generally means with as little stress or rush as possible. I am the hippie of fursuit making.
- Would you considering yourself a Fine Artist, or a Commercial Artist?
Fine Art.
- Where would you like to be in five years?
Artisticly? Making low amounts of high quality, high demand costumes.
temperance- What sort of artist would you most identify yourself as?
Sculpter
- What would be your secondary identity?
Mixed Media Artist ^^
- What forms of art do you dabble in, but don't excel at?
Putting pen to paper XD Anything that is not 3D
- How would you describe your 'style'?
Stylized realism/semi-realistic. I kinda don't like being classified with other pure realistic makers TBH XD Not personally a fan of the taxidermy head style unless the whole body is beastly/inhuman to match.
- What medium do you favor most?
Clay? I don't use it much as an end product but it is always the most relaxing. I often dislike having an armature inside to hold me back. (I'm rather impressionistic in my painting style)
- What are your favorite subject matters?
Animals
- What are your least favorite subject matters?
machinery/technology
- List your Artistic Strengths
Stylizing realism. Shading. Sculpting (teeth, noses).
- List your Artistic Weaknesses
Backgrounds. Tech.
- Which of the above weaknesses would you most like to see improve?
I don't generally like backgrounds in pictures (I like minimal ones with just enough to set the scene) so tech by default.
- Adult Content. . . yes/no?
As long as it's not anything that actually touches any private areas and then goes on a walkabout to hug people. In 2D, adult work can be either good or (more usually) overly numerous and not well done. I've never drawn anything more than a pin up myself.
- Adult Subject Matter you favor?
More interested in the emotion behind a drawing then seeing graphic bits and goo everywhere. Bits have their place, but, to me, the most sexy pieces are more about what they don't tell you than what they do.
- Schooling/Training received in the arts?
Self taught.
- Schooling/Training you'd still like to have?
More interested in business courses than art courses, but I'd take something regarding movie quality work for sure.
- Would you consider yourself prolific, or a 'quality over quantity' sort of artist?
Hells no! I work on what I want when I want and as fast as I want (within reason). Which generally means with as little stress or rush as possible. I am the hippie of fursuit making.
- Would you considering yourself a Fine Artist, or a Commercial Artist?
Fine Art.
- Where would you like to be in five years?
Artisticly? Making low amounts of high quality, high demand costumes.
Birthday and Notes
General | Posted 14 years agoPosted originally at my DA but it bears repeating here:
I want to quickly explain that using FA's note system to contact me is not the best option as it, frankly, sucks. And makes it impossible to have a record of conversation. If you have an important question, Please email me via my website at https://www.beetlefursuits.com instead.
However, be aware I am not giving out ANY quote requests right now. Those will continue to go unanswered. My commissions are closed and my prices are subject to flux over time. Any quote given now will be useless by the time I reopen again (mid 2012?). Just assume my prices are in line with other fursuiters.
I also do not answer questions on 'How do you make [insert item I sell]'. People take advantage of my obliging nature on this matter and I am becoming less and less interested in explaining anything about costume-building. If you have a unique question on something you are building then sure send me something if you get stuck. I have a wide amount of knowledge in the costuming realm. But otherwise this falls under either 'It is an insult to assume I will give everything I have built up away for free.' or 'Go Google it'.
I don't enjoy becoming one of those people I loved to hate when I first started out, but TBH my day is short and my workload is large and I just do not have the time to babysit people who offer more words than they do cash. I have enough customer care to deal with as is. Plus there is something very will-sapping about giving the same 3 rote answers out all the time XD
TL;DR:
I'm here for the big important questions, but this is my job. Paying customers come first and formost in my mind. After that comes my work and life :> A happy artist is a good artist rofl.
Thank you all for the birthday wishes! I had a very nice one indeed that involved gaming, shopping, and thai takeout ^^
Customer's Guide: Getting Burned on Buying a Suit
General | Posted 14 years agoThis write-up is not about artist's cheating customers and how to avoid them. This is about two people each with the best of intentions who enter into a contract and how the buyer can STILL end up very unhappy with what they get. I am basing this on stories and 2nd/3rd hand accounts I have heard and my knowledge of the profession as a fursuit maker.
When we take cheats and scoundrels off the list and stick with just regular honest people, and assuming the tastes of the customer do not change as the art is being made, there are two main ways for the customer to end up with an expensive item they may have waited a year to get and, in the end, really do not like or want.
1) NOT ENOUGH RESEARCH
Going with the first person you see. Googling 'Buy a Fursuit' and then picking the first option is not really the best way to get a suit. There are lots and lots of artists out there and each one is different is skill and style and price and if you do not look then you will not find the one that is the best fit for you.
This also counts under 'just going with whoever your friend recommends' as that assumes that your friend and you have the exact same taste in art. They may not have the whole story and may feel bad later that they were the sole reason you picked one artist over another. Do not mix friends and business. Word-of-mouth is useful, but also do your own research.
So that is probably pretty obvious to most and those it is not obvious to will probably never research enough to find this article. So let move on the real point of this write-up.
2) YOUR REFERENCE ART DOES NOT MATCH WHAT IS IN YOUR HEAD
Although this one is obvious, it is also easily overlooked/misunderstood by both sides. I will explain.
There are two types of commissions - one where you give the artist 2 or 3 details (colour/specific feature/species) and they make you something out of your head. If all you want is something totally random and cool, this is a perfect way to get it. No problem!
There is also the commission where you draw/get drawn up EXACTLY what you want does to the last detail. Explain all markings and colours and fur lengths. Whatever is important to you.
Here is the important thing - There is NOTHING in the MIDDLE! You cannot say "here is my reference sheet. But feel free to be creative" because when we are handed a reference then we must follow it as it lies because we do not KNOW what parts we are allowed to be creative over. If we change something that was important then you'll be unhappy. If we follow it exactly then you may still be unhappy but at least we can point to the sheet and say "Look. you gave me this." Being creative with a person's fursona is a very ..delicate proposition at times, we we do not always know if you are the one customer in a million that will make a huge deal over a swoosh marking being turned into an ellipse. And if we mess up on that then we have absolutely nothing to fall back on because the visual reference sheet is always taken as the absolute truth by a jury.
Handing a sheet of written adjustments with this doesn't really help. Although makers often try their best, it can be really hard to keep everyone's commission straight. In the spur of the moment it can be really hard to keep written changes (especially as they often occur over several emails) straight unless they are very very clear and concise. Saying "I like these 2 suits you made" does not help as we cannot look into your mind about what you love about them.
I repeat, Artist's cannot look into your mind. And thus they will play it safe and do exactly what they see drawn on paper.
2b) LEARN WHAT FURS ARE AVAILABLE.
It is fine to assume that an artist will understand that the reference sheet has longer fur on the shoulders or calves or whatever and maybe very short fur somewhere else and super poofy fur on the tail. Because they've done it before.
But realize that a) many fur colours are NOT AVAILABLE in certain lengths. If you want 3 inch fur, you are very very limited in your choices. and b) some furs do not play well with others and this can further limit your choices. If your reference shows your super long fur and your medium fur are the exact same colour, the artist may be forced to pick the same fur for both as there is not always a match available in several lengths.
Drawing up a reference in mind of using these furs you like is fine, but make sure you either use a reference artist who KNOWS FURS or you will have to educate yourself. saying you want the blue fur over the shoulders to be really long is.. fine on paper but in practice is not happening. And don't assume we know the bright yellow fur is supposed to be 4 inch sparkle fur because it is yellow and we have used long fur there in the past.
It is hard to be absolute on this subject as every artist is different in what they prefer and what they use. But I HIGHLY suggest before handing any money over, ask them WHAT FURS they intend to use on your project. Generally, we can glance at the reference and know very quickly what will work where. KNOW WHAT THESE FURS ARE and decide if they are what you want. if they are not, then discuss other options.
2c) DISCUSS WHAT YOU WANT
And by discuss, I mean a 2-way discussion. Writing them a lengthy email is not good enough - they have to reply and indicate that they understand what you mean. And if they do not then you can explain it further until you know they will do exactly as you ask, because NOW they know what is IMPORTANT to you - in this case fur length vs exact colour matching. Or maybe you want markings that follow a certain expression and you, or your reference artist, just didn't know how to draw it. And thus in translating it to fur we won't get what was trying to be conveyed unless you make it clear.
There is value in going with an artist because you like their past work, but cherry-picking your 3 favorites and assuming your suit will be like that is not a good practice. We may have moved on in style and not actually do them like that or you may unknowing pick a style that is incompatible with what your reference sheet tells us.
Talk to us and make sure your needs are being heard. Discovering the suit has been made 'incorrectly' is too late. This all needs to be done before any fur is ever cut up.
---
It is always unfortunate to hear people say "Oh they did a good job on my suit, but it is not really what I actually wanted from them." It is unfortunate that the customer lost a chance to own work that they really loved by a person they really loved, and also unfortunate that the artist lost out on a 100% satisfied customer through no fault of their own.
I have to emphasis that this is not a fault or blame scenario - it is about lack of communication as well as miscommunication. Both people entered into the project with the best of intentions and both people THOUGHT they DELIVERED on those intentions. But with disappointing end results.
As a buyer, the more RESEARCH you do before you buy and the more you can talk to an artist on their OWN level so that they 100% understand where you are coming from with your project ideas, the more likely it is that you will be 100% happy with what you receive from them.
When we take cheats and scoundrels off the list and stick with just regular honest people, and assuming the tastes of the customer do not change as the art is being made, there are two main ways for the customer to end up with an expensive item they may have waited a year to get and, in the end, really do not like or want.
1) NOT ENOUGH RESEARCH
Going with the first person you see. Googling 'Buy a Fursuit' and then picking the first option is not really the best way to get a suit. There are lots and lots of artists out there and each one is different is skill and style and price and if you do not look then you will not find the one that is the best fit for you.
This also counts under 'just going with whoever your friend recommends' as that assumes that your friend and you have the exact same taste in art. They may not have the whole story and may feel bad later that they were the sole reason you picked one artist over another. Do not mix friends and business. Word-of-mouth is useful, but also do your own research.
So that is probably pretty obvious to most and those it is not obvious to will probably never research enough to find this article. So let move on the real point of this write-up.
2) YOUR REFERENCE ART DOES NOT MATCH WHAT IS IN YOUR HEAD
Although this one is obvious, it is also easily overlooked/misunderstood by both sides. I will explain.
There are two types of commissions - one where you give the artist 2 or 3 details (colour/specific feature/species) and they make you something out of your head. If all you want is something totally random and cool, this is a perfect way to get it. No problem!
There is also the commission where you draw/get drawn up EXACTLY what you want does to the last detail. Explain all markings and colours and fur lengths. Whatever is important to you.
Here is the important thing - There is NOTHING in the MIDDLE! You cannot say "here is my reference sheet. But feel free to be creative" because when we are handed a reference then we must follow it as it lies because we do not KNOW what parts we are allowed to be creative over. If we change something that was important then you'll be unhappy. If we follow it exactly then you may still be unhappy but at least we can point to the sheet and say "Look. you gave me this." Being creative with a person's fursona is a very ..delicate proposition at times, we we do not always know if you are the one customer in a million that will make a huge deal over a swoosh marking being turned into an ellipse. And if we mess up on that then we have absolutely nothing to fall back on because the visual reference sheet is always taken as the absolute truth by a jury.
Handing a sheet of written adjustments with this doesn't really help. Although makers often try their best, it can be really hard to keep everyone's commission straight. In the spur of the moment it can be really hard to keep written changes (especially as they often occur over several emails) straight unless they are very very clear and concise. Saying "I like these 2 suits you made" does not help as we cannot look into your mind about what you love about them.
I repeat, Artist's cannot look into your mind. And thus they will play it safe and do exactly what they see drawn on paper.
2b) LEARN WHAT FURS ARE AVAILABLE.
It is fine to assume that an artist will understand that the reference sheet has longer fur on the shoulders or calves or whatever and maybe very short fur somewhere else and super poofy fur on the tail. Because they've done it before.
But realize that a) many fur colours are NOT AVAILABLE in certain lengths. If you want 3 inch fur, you are very very limited in your choices. and b) some furs do not play well with others and this can further limit your choices. If your reference shows your super long fur and your medium fur are the exact same colour, the artist may be forced to pick the same fur for both as there is not always a match available in several lengths.
Drawing up a reference in mind of using these furs you like is fine, but make sure you either use a reference artist who KNOWS FURS or you will have to educate yourself. saying you want the blue fur over the shoulders to be really long is.. fine on paper but in practice is not happening. And don't assume we know the bright yellow fur is supposed to be 4 inch sparkle fur because it is yellow and we have used long fur there in the past.
It is hard to be absolute on this subject as every artist is different in what they prefer and what they use. But I HIGHLY suggest before handing any money over, ask them WHAT FURS they intend to use on your project. Generally, we can glance at the reference and know very quickly what will work where. KNOW WHAT THESE FURS ARE and decide if they are what you want. if they are not, then discuss other options.
2c) DISCUSS WHAT YOU WANT
And by discuss, I mean a 2-way discussion. Writing them a lengthy email is not good enough - they have to reply and indicate that they understand what you mean. And if they do not then you can explain it further until you know they will do exactly as you ask, because NOW they know what is IMPORTANT to you - in this case fur length vs exact colour matching. Or maybe you want markings that follow a certain expression and you, or your reference artist, just didn't know how to draw it. And thus in translating it to fur we won't get what was trying to be conveyed unless you make it clear.
There is value in going with an artist because you like their past work, but cherry-picking your 3 favorites and assuming your suit will be like that is not a good practice. We may have moved on in style and not actually do them like that or you may unknowing pick a style that is incompatible with what your reference sheet tells us.
Talk to us and make sure your needs are being heard. Discovering the suit has been made 'incorrectly' is too late. This all needs to be done before any fur is ever cut up.
---
It is always unfortunate to hear people say "Oh they did a good job on my suit, but it is not really what I actually wanted from them." It is unfortunate that the customer lost a chance to own work that they really loved by a person they really loved, and also unfortunate that the artist lost out on a 100% satisfied customer through no fault of their own.
I have to emphasis that this is not a fault or blame scenario - it is about lack of communication as well as miscommunication. Both people entered into the project with the best of intentions and both people THOUGHT they DELIVERED on those intentions. But with disappointing end results.
As a buyer, the more RESEARCH you do before you buy and the more you can talk to an artist on their OWN level so that they 100% understand where you are coming from with your project ideas, the more likely it is that you will be 100% happy with what you receive from them.
Custom Tail up for Auction
General | Posted 14 years agoI am selling one custom tail! This seemed like the most fair way to go about it and not worry about falling back into 'only ever making tails' from a couple years ago. If it goes well I may do this again in the future :)
http://www.furbuy.com/auctions/1026543.html
http://www.furbuy.com/auctions/1026543.html
http://www.furbuy.com/auctions/1026543.html
http://www.furbuy.com/auctions/1026543.html
NFT fur for sale
General | Posted 14 years agoI bought a bunch of NFT fur just recently, but there is too much for myself to use up, so I am currently offering pieces for sale via my online store ^^
http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/Beetlecat
http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/Beetlecat
Fursuit Bits
General | Posted 14 years agoThinking of selling noses again http://twitgoo.com/4ktir7 It has been a while and I lived in Canada then XD What do these things go for right now? Including shipping? What colours would be the most hot sellers?
I will not sell eyes again, but claws? Maybe.. though so many people do claws (and make them all fancy to boot) that I'm not sure it's worth my effort to list them.
I will not sell eyes again, but claws? Maybe.. though so many people do claws (and make them all fancy to boot) that I'm not sure it's worth my effort to list them.
Rainfurrest 2011 Con Report
General | Posted 14 years agoThose friended on my LJ can go find the report (with photos) here: http://beetlecat.livejournal.com/532512.html
For the rest, here it is in its entity (just sans photos)
...What I really despise about North American airport bathrooms is that there are no toilet lids but the handles are behind the seat. That plus the little stall means that even when I lean back and toggle it with my foot, I still feel dirty from the loo backwash spray XD
....
So Rainfurrest 2011 is over. Unlike some years I have not been hit by any post-con depression yet; though in that realm it helps a lot to not be going home alone ^^
This con was unique in that it was my first foray into the Guest of Honour arena. I won’t overstate it to be anything more than just a fun side note to my convention life (what makes a con is the friends and that never changes) but I am glad (and thankful) to have been able to have had the experience at least once in my career.
I guess I can say now that the cougar head in my gallery is my version of Rainy, the RF mascot. The convention staff intends to keep and add onto him/her each year. I’m personally not sure how well that is going to work lol but I was honoured to be able to start it off J
I stayed longer at this con then I think I have ever at any con, or at least not for several years; A full 5 days - Wednesday to Monday. And it was glorious to spread everything out over that long - especially given how much we did outside of the convention space itself.
Almost as soon as we arrived Wednesday, Tani and I (as well as our significant others Nightfox and FarOuthere) were treated to a sailboat ride with Aeto, Frysco, Trapa, and Guardian. We sailed across the Puget sound to a nice little restaurant by the water that would have been almost impossible to reach by car from the hotel.
I did have a small personal tragedy here where a diamond necklace my husband gave me for our wedding day broke and fell into the water. I was pretty crushed at the time but thankfully, due to all the interesting company, I was able to have a good time regardless and I settled out my feeling over the matter later that night. I have to admit, losing it sucks but at least it is more tragically romantic to have it deep in the ocean likely to be covered by sand and never seen again than it falling into a gross sewer grate somewhere XD
On the sail back it was already dark and we were able to see some amazing phosphoresce plankton in the water kicked up by the boat as it sailed. Bright glow in the dark streams of blue-green. Definitely a sight to remember.
Thursday we all drove to downtown Seattle and took the Underground tour. I’m not normally huge into history but I have to admit that this was really interesting - all about how Seattle was built below the tide lines and it flooded twice a day until they city finally went and raised all of the streets in a 30 block area about 10 feet. And thus the 2 floor of buildings became their first floors and the underground was born.
Right after we got back from that was a quick run through registration then Opening Ceremonies for Rainfurrest. The GoH were introduced and North laid down the con rules in his usual amusing manner. Good stuff!
Dinner at Red Robin care of Malytwotails and crew (we got balloons!) plus a quick trip to Safeway for a few essentials. Then after a little bit of chilling in the hotel room, it was dance time! I don’t know if there were any specific ‘fursuit dances’ at RF this year but it really doesn’t matter as (to me) ALL dances are fursuit dances :p At some point around 2 or 3 we went to bed.
Friday we (Far, myself, Streak, and MattPanther) played hooky from the con and went out on the light rail system to go see what we could find in the food, more supplies, and liquor department. After a late start out and me having to rush back to the con in time for the GoH Q&A, we ended up just grabbing some MacDonald’s. Not in the mood for a pile of fast food goo but needing to fill up for later, I got an angus burger with bacon and nothing else (just the meat and bun) and I have to say it may have been the best McDonald’s burger ever ^^
The GoH Q&A had a rather low turnout IMO (though I admit to having never previous attended one of these as a spectator or otherwise. Though I may in the future!), but it slowly filled up more and was fun regardless ^^ It was interesting just learning more about the other GoH really!
I had a panel right after co-hosting with Nicodemus. I think it turned out really well actually! Nicodemus and I played over each other well and were able to bring forth a fairly well-rounded discussion IMO even though I had not prepared at all and relied on him for the direction of conversation XD
My attempt to go be a cat-person (fursuit around with Matrices and Jill0r) was short-lived as I was drafted into dinner with Nico and co instead ;D As always, I was happy over the opportunity to talk to people I only ever get to see in person at a con setting and we had some good discussion over our food at 13 Coins. Always a pleasure!
Then it was back into the hotel room to settle the food with drinks before heading to the dance ^^ We sadly missed the retro set but it was great nonetheless!
And I really can’t say enough about the dance set up or about the awesome lights or the headless location (once I found the secret door). Aside from the very first night (which it was surprising to have a dance on Thursday anyways so it does not count except as a bonus), the dance was constantly *packed* with people and great music and was just super fun times all around. I wouldn’t change a thing!
Saturday I hosted another panel on fursuit construction at noon. It was supposed to be with Kodi and I planned to basically let him lead and I interject when I had something to contribute (since it was originally his panel and I was just asked to help. So had brought no notes or examples or prepared even slightly) but for whatever reason he never showed so I basically talked about random fursuit-related things for an hour XD I have no idea if it was a success but, well, good to know that I know enough about my subject to ramble non-stop about it though? Lol. In any case it could have gone a lot worse XD
Anyways so after that we skipped the fursuit parade totally and went out to lunch instead at Roasters; a really nice bar/steakhouse with a simple menu but good food and friendly staff. I would have loved to go a 2nd time actually but I’m glad we didn’t just skip by it totally ^^ Yay for Google maps and restaurant look ups :p
With the panel and walking, lunch ended up being rather late so we got back and headed to the GoH Dinner with a still full stomach XD Thankfully, the portions there were both modest and amazingly good so I was able to finish all of my meal except some of my pie at the end which really was a tragedy L
The dinner was a rather simple affair with the guests not being introduced or even really interacted with by the attendees but I was able to sit with my husband which I really appreciated. Plus less effort on my part to just be able to shut up and eat hahaha!
After dinner, we (the ‘we’ here I refer to during these late evening times ebbed and flowed but usually entailed around 6-8 people at a time) hung out in our room (this is often the BEST part of cons and this year was no exception) and bullshitted and chatted and just hung out together until we felt like getting into suit and dancing. Pizza was brought in and I was still pretty full but had a small slice anyways XD
Sunday we basically just skipped the con totally. Soon as we got up (so uh.. around 1pm), Lucifur, Streak, MattPanther, Far, And I bought some day pass light rail tickets and went on an adventure to the end of the line ^^
In the end, we hit up Palomino for food and drinks (and, as with all of the food we found in Seattle this trip, it was an *excellent* choice), Pike Place Market for tchotchkes (we got in a bit late at closing time but I did find a chance to buy my customary 'furry con plushie'. This time a Wild Republic porcupine.). Then Bedlam for coffee and tea (I drink tea which is fairly standard but the mocha was considered the "Best I ever had" by two members of the group that partook.). We *could* have walked another 15 minutes or so to the Seattle Space Needle at this point, but it was getting late; so we decided to leave something for the next trip and headed back to the train station.
We got back just after dark. Closing ceremonies had come and gone and the hotel was so quiet 0_0
It sounded like Dead Dog was a bust and other parties were getting broken up so in the end we just chilled in our room again. Joined by Sardonis (and friend; who I'm sorry I never got your name ><) then Matrices and Jill0r. Remaining rum and Canadian coke was drank up and snacky food disappeared (Achievement unlocked: Not having it all go to waste at the end of the con!). Everyone talked to everyone and I think had a great time as it did not end until pretty much literal collapse at 3:30 or so :p
Although Matt had to leave earlier and was packed and out by 10am, Far and I did not need to catch our flight until that evening and so took the late checkout option. At 1 we were packed and ready and took a cab with Lucifur to Ihop (Achievement Unlocked: Never Eating at Denny's once for the whole 6 day con). We got back just in time to catch a ride with Affinity to the airport at 4 where we settled at another bar with some wine and beer until our flight at 7.
All in all it was an extremely enjoyable experience. I love RF because of who goes more than anything in particular the con staff does or does not do. Just keep making it happen and I will keep coming!
For the rest, here it is in its entity (just sans photos)
...What I really despise about North American airport bathrooms is that there are no toilet lids but the handles are behind the seat. That plus the little stall means that even when I lean back and toggle it with my foot, I still feel dirty from the loo backwash spray XD
....
So Rainfurrest 2011 is over. Unlike some years I have not been hit by any post-con depression yet; though in that realm it helps a lot to not be going home alone ^^
This con was unique in that it was my first foray into the Guest of Honour arena. I won’t overstate it to be anything more than just a fun side note to my convention life (what makes a con is the friends and that never changes) but I am glad (and thankful) to have been able to have had the experience at least once in my career.
I guess I can say now that the cougar head in my gallery is my version of Rainy, the RF mascot. The convention staff intends to keep and add onto him/her each year. I’m personally not sure how well that is going to work lol but I was honoured to be able to start it off J
I stayed longer at this con then I think I have ever at any con, or at least not for several years; A full 5 days - Wednesday to Monday. And it was glorious to spread everything out over that long - especially given how much we did outside of the convention space itself.
Almost as soon as we arrived Wednesday, Tani and I (as well as our significant others Nightfox and FarOuthere) were treated to a sailboat ride with Aeto, Frysco, Trapa, and Guardian. We sailed across the Puget sound to a nice little restaurant by the water that would have been almost impossible to reach by car from the hotel.
I did have a small personal tragedy here where a diamond necklace my husband gave me for our wedding day broke and fell into the water. I was pretty crushed at the time but thankfully, due to all the interesting company, I was able to have a good time regardless and I settled out my feeling over the matter later that night. I have to admit, losing it sucks but at least it is more tragically romantic to have it deep in the ocean likely to be covered by sand and never seen again than it falling into a gross sewer grate somewhere XD
On the sail back it was already dark and we were able to see some amazing phosphoresce plankton in the water kicked up by the boat as it sailed. Bright glow in the dark streams of blue-green. Definitely a sight to remember.
Thursday we all drove to downtown Seattle and took the Underground tour. I’m not normally huge into history but I have to admit that this was really interesting - all about how Seattle was built below the tide lines and it flooded twice a day until they city finally went and raised all of the streets in a 30 block area about 10 feet. And thus the 2 floor of buildings became their first floors and the underground was born.
Right after we got back from that was a quick run through registration then Opening Ceremonies for Rainfurrest. The GoH were introduced and North laid down the con rules in his usual amusing manner. Good stuff!
Dinner at Red Robin care of Malytwotails and crew (we got balloons!) plus a quick trip to Safeway for a few essentials. Then after a little bit of chilling in the hotel room, it was dance time! I don’t know if there were any specific ‘fursuit dances’ at RF this year but it really doesn’t matter as (to me) ALL dances are fursuit dances :p At some point around 2 or 3 we went to bed.
Friday we (Far, myself, Streak, and MattPanther) played hooky from the con and went out on the light rail system to go see what we could find in the food, more supplies, and liquor department. After a late start out and me having to rush back to the con in time for the GoH Q&A, we ended up just grabbing some MacDonald’s. Not in the mood for a pile of fast food goo but needing to fill up for later, I got an angus burger with bacon and nothing else (just the meat and bun) and I have to say it may have been the best McDonald’s burger ever ^^
The GoH Q&A had a rather low turnout IMO (though I admit to having never previous attended one of these as a spectator or otherwise. Though I may in the future!), but it slowly filled up more and was fun regardless ^^ It was interesting just learning more about the other GoH really!
I had a panel right after co-hosting with Nicodemus. I think it turned out really well actually! Nicodemus and I played over each other well and were able to bring forth a fairly well-rounded discussion IMO even though I had not prepared at all and relied on him for the direction of conversation XD
My attempt to go be a cat-person (fursuit around with Matrices and Jill0r) was short-lived as I was drafted into dinner with Nico and co instead ;D As always, I was happy over the opportunity to talk to people I only ever get to see in person at a con setting and we had some good discussion over our food at 13 Coins. Always a pleasure!
Then it was back into the hotel room to settle the food with drinks before heading to the dance ^^ We sadly missed the retro set but it was great nonetheless!
And I really can’t say enough about the dance set up or about the awesome lights or the headless location (once I found the secret door). Aside from the very first night (which it was surprising to have a dance on Thursday anyways so it does not count except as a bonus), the dance was constantly *packed* with people and great music and was just super fun times all around. I wouldn’t change a thing!
Saturday I hosted another panel on fursuit construction at noon. It was supposed to be with Kodi and I planned to basically let him lead and I interject when I had something to contribute (since it was originally his panel and I was just asked to help. So had brought no notes or examples or prepared even slightly) but for whatever reason he never showed so I basically talked about random fursuit-related things for an hour XD I have no idea if it was a success but, well, good to know that I know enough about my subject to ramble non-stop about it though? Lol. In any case it could have gone a lot worse XD
Anyways so after that we skipped the fursuit parade totally and went out to lunch instead at Roasters; a really nice bar/steakhouse with a simple menu but good food and friendly staff. I would have loved to go a 2nd time actually but I’m glad we didn’t just skip by it totally ^^ Yay for Google maps and restaurant look ups :p
With the panel and walking, lunch ended up being rather late so we got back and headed to the GoH Dinner with a still full stomach XD Thankfully, the portions there were both modest and amazingly good so I was able to finish all of my meal except some of my pie at the end which really was a tragedy L
The dinner was a rather simple affair with the guests not being introduced or even really interacted with by the attendees but I was able to sit with my husband which I really appreciated. Plus less effort on my part to just be able to shut up and eat hahaha!
After dinner, we (the ‘we’ here I refer to during these late evening times ebbed and flowed but usually entailed around 6-8 people at a time) hung out in our room (this is often the BEST part of cons and this year was no exception) and bullshitted and chatted and just hung out together until we felt like getting into suit and dancing. Pizza was brought in and I was still pretty full but had a small slice anyways XD
Sunday we basically just skipped the con totally. Soon as we got up (so uh.. around 1pm), Lucifur, Streak, MattPanther, Far, And I bought some day pass light rail tickets and went on an adventure to the end of the line ^^
In the end, we hit up Palomino for food and drinks (and, as with all of the food we found in Seattle this trip, it was an *excellent* choice), Pike Place Market for tchotchkes (we got in a bit late at closing time but I did find a chance to buy my customary 'furry con plushie'. This time a Wild Republic porcupine.). Then Bedlam for coffee and tea (I drink tea which is fairly standard but the mocha was considered the "Best I ever had" by two members of the group that partook.). We *could* have walked another 15 minutes or so to the Seattle Space Needle at this point, but it was getting late; so we decided to leave something for the next trip and headed back to the train station.
We got back just after dark. Closing ceremonies had come and gone and the hotel was so quiet 0_0
It sounded like Dead Dog was a bust and other parties were getting broken up so in the end we just chilled in our room again. Joined by Sardonis (and friend; who I'm sorry I never got your name ><) then Matrices and Jill0r. Remaining rum and Canadian coke was drank up and snacky food disappeared (Achievement unlocked: Not having it all go to waste at the end of the con!). Everyone talked to everyone and I think had a great time as it did not end until pretty much literal collapse at 3:30 or so :p
Although Matt had to leave earlier and was packed and out by 10am, Far and I did not need to catch our flight until that evening and so took the late checkout option. At 1 we were packed and ready and took a cab with Lucifur to Ihop (Achievement Unlocked: Never Eating at Denny's once for the whole 6 day con). We got back just in time to catch a ride with Affinity to the airport at 4 where we settled at another bar with some wine and beer until our flight at 7.
All in all it was an extremely enjoyable experience. I love RF because of who goes more than anything in particular the con staff does or does not do. Just keep making it happen and I will keep coming!
