Yaya Han

Yaya Han is a globally renowned cosplayer, costume designer, author, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience. A self-taught seamstress and armor crafter, she has created more than 400 intricate costumes spanning anime, video games, comics, and original designs. She has judged competitions and been a guest at conventions worldwide, helping to popularize cosplay as both an art form and a career.

Beyond cosplay, Yaya has built a successful brand, launching cosplay accessories, wigs, and materials, collaborating with McCall’s on sewing patterns and Jo-Ann Fabrics on a cosplay fabric line. She also authored Yaya Han’s World of Cosplay, offering insights into the fandom and industry. Featured on TV shows like Heroes of Cosplay, she continues to advocate for the cosplay community.

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Acheivements

• Crafted Over 400 Costumes – Showcasing expertise in sewing, armor crafting, and prop-making across anime, video games, and comics.

• Collaborations with Major Brands

  • McCall’s Sewing Patterns – Designed a cosplay-focused pattern collection.

  • Jo-Ann Fabrics – Created a dedicated cosplay fabric line, making costume crafting more accessible.

• Published Author – Wrote Yaya Han’s World of Cosplay: A Guide to Fandom Costume Culture, a book offering insights into the history, craftsmanship, and impact of cosplay.

• Starred in Syfy’s Heroes of Cosplay, helping introduce cosplay to mainstream audiences.

• Judge & Guest at International Conventions – Has judged prestigious cosplay competitions worldwide, including events at Anime Expo, New York Comic Con, and San Diego Comic-Con.

• Industry Speaker & Advocate – Regularly speaks on cosplay as an art form and career, helping legitimize the craft within pop culture and entertainment industries.

• Influence on Cosplay Culture – Helped shape modern cosplay trends, from craftsmanship techniques to industry professionalism, inspiring thousands of cosplayers globally.