Craftsmanship + performance
Show the work, then own the stage
Review the craftsmanship and masquerade contest categories, judging notes, and stage expectations for QCAC 2026.
Cosplay craftsmanship
Take the Spotlight!
The craftsmanship contest is for costumes with handmade, self-produced, or contestant-created work. Judges focus on accuracy, construction quality, creativity, and the work you personally produced.
Craftsmanship sign-upDivision requirements
- Youth
- Participants up to 12 years of age. Parents may walk on stage and should remain backstage to supervise.
- Novice
- Up to 2 craftsmanship awards. At least 50% of the cosplay must be self-made.
- Journeyman
- 2 to 6 major craftsmanship awards. At least 60% of the cosplay must be self-made.
- Master
- 6 or more major craftsmanship awards. At least 70% of the cosplay must be self-made.
- Reference photos
- Bring a reference photo, printed or on your phone. Progress photos are strongly encouraged.
Masquerade performance
Bring the character work to the room
The masquerade is a performance-based contest. Craftsmanship is not judged in this division, so the focus is stage presence, timing, character work, and audience-ready presentation.
Masquerade registration coming soonPerformance notes
- Performance categories
- Best Junior, Best Novice, Best Journeyman, Best Master, and Best in Show.
- Time limits
- Solo performances are limited to 90 seconds. Group performances are limited to 3 minutes.
- Audio
- Submit music in advance and bring a flash-drive backup in MP3 format. No YouTube links.
Stage expectations
Keep performances safe and show-ready
Contest staff may adjust entries for safety, timing, or operational needs. Final registration details will be posted as each signup window opens.