Step 1 - FAQ'S

How Does the Design Process Work?

Please reach out with as much information as possible (some helpful info to include has been listed below in Step 2). From there I will let you know if I can take on your request and, if so, provide an ideal budget range for a similar style.

After arranging the slot, at least 2 months prior to your send by date, I'll start on the sketch and come up with a new design based on the initial info provided and share it for approval. If major changes to the sketch that conflict with the inspiration provided are requested, additional sketch fees may occur.

Can I Use AI For Inspiration?

No, please do not upload images of my, or other designers work into AI image generators. This trains AI models and promotes design plagiarism and unoriginality.

Additionally, please do not provide AI-generated or modified images as reference material. They often perpetuate unrealistic and unachievable finishes. I will not accept AI content as inspiration and will ask for real life reference photos instead.

When is your next availability?

My commission schedule varies seasonally. Please reach out to check my current availability.

Will I Need To Provide Measurements?

Yes! For custom bookings, you will receive a design form with all the measurements required and how to take them.

Allowances for growth must be included in measurements. Any alterations due to growth, body changes, or inaccurate measurements are the client’s responsibility. Catchlight Designs is not liable for third-party alteration costs.

For costumes in my shop, please refer to the measurements provided on the listing.

How Much Is The Deposit?

All bookings require a non-refundable deposit to secure your spot.

AU Clients - $100 AUD via bank transfer
US clients $110 USD (including a $10 PayPal Fee) via PayPal invoice
All other countries - please contact for a country specific amount

The deposit (minus PayPal fee for International clients) will be deducted from the final cost of your booking.

How Much Does It Cost?

Each piece is unique and custom-made, so pricing will vary. The final cost ultimately depends on the detail and complexity of the design. The best way to get an idea of pricing is to send some design ideas through and I can let you know an ideal budget range.

Please keep in mind that my costume shop prices do not apply to custom commissions. Commission pricing reflects the custom sizing, labor, and personalised design process required, so rates tend to be higher than ready made pieces.

Do You Replicate Existing Costumes?

No, I will not replicate any of my own or other designers costumes. This is plagiarism and defeats the purpose of a custom, one of a kind costume. I do however take inspiration from existing designs but use elements to create something new!

How Much Does Postage Cost?

Both international and national postage costs are typically included in the quoted price unless specified otherwise.

International clients are responsible for any applicable duties, taxes, or customs tariffs imposed by their country of import. These charges are not included in the costume price or shipping fees and must be paid by the recipient upon delivery, if required by local authorities.

Catchlight Designs is not responsible for any shipping delays caused by shipping carriers. Costumes worth over $700AUD or $500USD will automatically include shipping insurance.

Do you create Duos/Trios/Groups?

Yes I do! For duo, trio and group bookings, communication, payment and postage must be coordinated through just one person to avoid any confusion or miscommunication.

Are Your Costumes Lined?

Yes for the most part, costumes are lined. More specifically:

Medium-weight fabrics typically include a lining (tan or white lycra or powermesh).
Heavy-weight fabrics (velvet, thick lycra, darker colours, or shimmer finishes) where it could affect the construction, may not require lining.
Pants, unitards, or shorts will not be lined.
Mesh cutouts will only be lined if specified or requested.

Step 2 - ENQUIRE

Please reach out via one of the methods listed on the About page. When making your initial enquiry, please include as much information in regards to the following:

A brief outline of the costume style you are considering (e.g. genre, solo/duo etc, base or fully decorated).
Your general timeframe (e.g. early May, late October).
The approximate size and age of the costume recipient.
What country you're based in so that location-specific pricing can be provided.
An estimated budget range, if any.
Any reference images or visual inspiration relevant to your concept (please avoid submitting AI-generated images, as these can be misleading, often depict unrealistic finishes, and may draw too heavily from the work of other designers).

Providing these details enables me to assess availability quickly, estimate costs accurately, and determine whether your project is a suitable fit for collaboration.

Intellectual Property and Design Rights

All sketches, designs, and finished costumes remain the intellectual property of Catchlight Designs. The sharing of costume design sketches with other costume makers for the purpose of replication, is strictly prohibited.

Sharing, copying, or replicating designs without written consent is prohibited. Completed costumes may be photographed and shared for portfolio, marketing, or promotional purposes.