Comic Book Fabrication

Comic book characters came to life at UTA Libraries' FabLab as students worked to create costumes for the Fan Expo Dallas June 7-9. Each costume reflected the personality of the character and its creator. 

The Fan Expo Dallas event draws tens of thousands of people from around the country who have a shared interest in science fiction, horror, anime, movies, television shows and gaming. People attending the convention dress up in character, which adds to the fun atmosphere of the annual event.  

Alex Patrón, FabLab Student Lead, and his friends spent the week before the convention bringing their creations to life at the Central Library. The time spent sewing and 3D printing costume parts added another level of detail to the characters they were portraying.  

Alex's costume was Deadshot, considered one of the deadliest assassins in the DC Universe. Attending the convention has become a regular tradition for Alex, who shares it with family and friends.  

"Every year since 2015, my sister, Arianna, and I have dressed up for the convention. After a while, we started to bring our friends. This year, we will bring two of our closest friends, Michael and Annie," Alex said. "Without the advice from FabLab staff and the services of 3D printing, this effort would not have been going nearly as smoothly as it is now." 

Alex shared that the services in the FabLab have allowed them to be more creative during the fabrication process. The result of their work in the FabLab is a better-quality product than what is commercially available.  

Michael Greene spent his time at the FabLab working to bring the character Death from the 2022 animated film "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish" to life at the convention. In the movie, Death is the primary antagonist.  

"I wanted my costume to be slightly more complicated this year," Michael said. "Death from 'Puss and Boots' takes the form of a wolf. So, I am trying to match his appearance from the movie." 

Michael expressed his thanks to the FabLab staff for allowing them to use this space to make final preparations for attending the convention.  

Ariana Patrón echoed Alex and Michael's thoughts about what the FabLab offers people who want to create something.  

She spent her time creating her Lucina costume from the popular video game series "Fire Emblem Awakening.'" 

"I absolutely love the resources here in the FabLab. I have enough space to cut out my costume than I would have if I were at home," Ariana said. "It is great having people here who can help me if I run into a problem.  

The FabLab is at the UTA Central Library. It contains resources such as 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, kilns, and much more to help people make ideas a reality. Staff members are ready to share their knowledge with learners and provide guidance on projects.  

The UTA Libraries website has more information about the FabLab, its resources and its hours of operation.