Today we’d like to introduce you to David.
Hi David, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
DCWbuilds is a Chicago-based costume and prop maker, six-time competitor in the Crown Championships of Cosplay, and the 2026 Armor Division Champion. Since 2014, he has specialized in foam and 3D-printed armor builds while continually expanding his skill set through new techniques and materials.
I have been making props and other things for as far as I can remember. Even making Keyblades and other video game props from cardboard and duct tape back in 2008 until fully taking the dive into cosplay in 2014. Since then, I am always trying to outdo myself and create something bigger and better.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Costume making is expensive. I have been able to be a little less frugal and more able to take risks as my personal life has improved with my day job, but starting out, it’s hard.
Starting out, I have one sheet of foam that I cannot afford to screw up which is paralyzing when I need to finally take action.
Now I have more room to make mistakes, which also lets me remake things and only show off perfection.
I am definitely on the larger side of things, while I have been an athlete and still work out regularly, I do not have a
“superhero physique” that is one thing that drew me to making my own costumes, since most commercially made ones do not fit correctly. Looking the way I do also draws in my share of internet trolls and body shaming. This has never been an issue in person, but online, that’s a different story.
When it comes to costume making, I am also 100% self taught. I didn’t go to theater school or anything to teach me crafting. I’ve had to learn it all as I go.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I make costumes, primary armors from video games. I almost exclusively wear masks and helmets, which I joke about Bane saying “No one cared who I was until I put on the mask.”
Back in March 2026, I won the armor division in the Crown Championships of Cosplay at C2E2. That was my 7th time entering this contest. 6th time making it in to compete and first time walking away with an award.
I am always looking at new materials. I started with foam and then moved to 3d printing. Then I taught myself how to sew. Now I am looking into molding and casting with silicone and resin.
A cosplayer that I have both looked up to and have also competed against previously was so amazed at how I seamlessly blended my foam armor with my 3d printed pieces on that winning build.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I guess every portion of cosplay is some form of a risk. Financial is one, you almost never recover the costs of anything- tools, materials, time, etc.
Safety is another huge risk. Many materials are toxic, tools sharp or worse.
Putting yourself out there to be judged by actual judges in a contest as well as anyone who stumbles upon your page is also a risk.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dcwbuilds
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dcwbuilds/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dcwbuilds
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@dcwbuilds
