Hoku Props is led by prop maker Chad Hoku and seamstress Sammy Hoku. They’re best known for winning Grand Prize at TwitchCon’s first ever cosplay contest in 2016, with their “Larger than Life” Lionhardt cosplay from Blizzard’s Overwatch.

Chad began his creative journey by studying at Gnomon—School of Visual Effects, Games & Animation in Hollywood, California. There he learned how to 3D model from some of the best in the industry before graduating from the University of California, Riverside, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business with a focus in arts management. Using this specialization in 3D, he designs armor, props, and customized awards for video game studios and craftsmanship competitions, while utilizing a variety of fabrication techniques to bring those creations to life.

Sammy’s love for cosplay at a young age led her to study fashion and costume design for her higher education, which helped her secure her first industry job at the Disneyland Resort in entertainment costuming. There she worked on various parades, special events, and her favorite show, Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular. After almost five years, Sammy left Disney but continued to fulfill her passion of creating costumes for Hoku Props full time.

Hoku Props is a huge advocate for inclusivity and ensuring that everyone has access to knowledge. They’re passionate about education and helping the cosplay community grow by offering tutorials, workshops, demonstrations, and educational books. Their first book: Thermoplastics: Cosplay Props, Armor & Accessories, was just released by C&T Publishing.