Howl-Inspired Cosplay Tutorial
Howl Pendragon Inspired Cosplay Jacket
Baby Lock Ambassador Atticus of Gilded Stitch walks us through their process creating a cosplay jacket inspired by Howl's Moving Castle!






My Inspiration and Process
The Baby Lock Accomplish was an immense help on this project for beautiful high quality stitching!
My journey into the enchanting world of Howl's Moving Castle began with the beloved Studio Ghibli film. The imaginative storytelling and vibrant characters captivated me, and I was particularly drawn to the enigmatic wizard, Howl. Intrigued by the source material, I delved into Diana Wynne Jones' novel and was immediately captivated by the vivid descriptions of the characters and their world. The intricate details and unique personalities inspired me to bring Howl's vision to life through my own creative interpretation.
For this jacket, I sought to capture the essence of the iconic color scheme seen in the film while incorporating the additional details and nuances I had discovered in the novel. My goal was to create a piece that not only paid homage to the beloved story but also reflected my personal vision of Howl's character.




We love how Atticus adds ornate details that adds a fresh interpretation of the film and novel character.








I was absolutely thrilled when I stumbled upon these fabrics for the front quilted pieces (see my quilting process here). The delicate blue lace, layered over a luxurious blue satin, created a captivating depth and texture that perfectly complemented the stunning pink Jacquard. The satin added a subtle touch of elegance without overshadowing the vibrant pink, making it a harmonious and visually appealing combination. It was as if these fabrics were destined to be together.
After the painstaking yet rewarding process of quilting my fabrics together (refer to my recent blog for a detailed breakdown), I eagerly dove into the most exciting phase of this project: the detailing! This is where my creative juices truly flow. I love the freedom to experiment with various materials and techniques, transforming my design into a unique and personalized masterpiece. I meticulously selected trims, lace, and beads, layering them in a harmonious composition of color, texture, and pattern.
Next, I turned my attention to the back of the jacket. Embracing a more free-form approach, I incorporated some of the quilting elements from the front, creating a playful and dynamic design. Before permanently attaching any details, I carefully arranged them on the back, using fabric glue to secure them temporarily. This allowed me to visualize the final composition and make any necessary adjustments before committing to the stitching.
For the back, I used my Babylock Accomplish sewing machine equipped with a Klasse Jean/Denim needle and a standard sewing foot to secure the trim. For the lacy materials, I switched to the free-motion quilting foot. A helpful tip: when sewing over delicate trims, reduce the pressure of the presser foot to prevent distortion. You may also need to adjust the thread tension to achieve optimal results. I always recommend testing these settings on a scrap piece of fabric before working on your final project.
The lining, a crucial element that often goes unnoticed but adds a touch of luxury and comfort. I chose to use a split-color design for the front lining, featuring a stunning wave pattern that complemented the exterior colors perfectly. This nod to the original inspiration from the movie not only added a visual surprise but also enhanced the overall aesthetic. I carefully cut and sewed the lining pieces together using my trusty Babylock Accomplish and the friction sewing foot. The lining was just as important to me as the exterior, and I wanted it to be equally beautiful and thoughtfully crafted.
The collar was the next step in this intricate project. Following the same process I used for the back and front details, I carefully planned and arranged the various trims and details, creating a visually appealing composition. I allowed myself ample time to experiment and make adjustments, ensuring that the final design was exactly what I envisioned.
With the individual pieces complete, it was time to assemble the jacket. I carefully attached the exterior, collar, and lining, ensuring a seamless and precise fit. Even at this stage, I continued to add intricate trims, appliqués, and layers of details to connect the pieces harmoniously. For instance, I used a particular trim on the collar that I also incorporated into the front details, creating a cohesive and unified design. While hand sewing is a time-consuming process, it's a crucial step that adds a touch of craftsmanship and elevates the final product.
With the final details added, I am absolutely delighted with the outcome. This jacket perfectly captures the essence of Howl Pendragon, incorporating the desired colors and intricate details I envisioned. It has been a rewarding journey, and I hope this project has inspired others to embark on their own creative sewing adventures. Happy sewing!



