Kitty Wyn Williams

Introduction

When Kitty watched a video of people wearing character animal costumes back in 2016, it captured her imagination. Aged just 7 she knew she wanted to have a go at making one of her own. Just a few years later, aged 10, she did exactly that! In her own words “it wasn’t the best” but in the years that followed she progressed from hand to machine sewing (all self-taught), and now enjoys making and selling animal masks and costumes for other people, shipping them as far afield as Norway and Austria.

Why did you decide to start a business while still at school?

Being inspired by others can create a spark in us, and it’s quite clear from chatting with Kitty that watching the video all those years ago ignited in her a genuine passion for her now cosplay business. Finding time to work on the costumes around school isn’t always easy – “they can take up to a month to make the head, feet, paws, tails and/or wings” - and she insists it must stay fun, so uses a schedule to work out when she might have time. 

“I made a schedule that helps me work out when I might have space around school to work on the costumes. It’s very flexible though, so I don’t get stressed if it doesn’t work out.” 

Moving from making costumes for yourself to making them for others is a big step but by aged 14 Kitty had already received her first order after promoting them on social media.

What support have you received from family or others when starting out?

Kitty’s family have been really supportive but are quick to point out that she has done everything herself – from learning how to sew and use a machine, to sourcing materials and managing money. Her friends “think it’s fun and want one” and she has a waiting list of orders to fulfil.

What plans do you have for the future?

Kitty has just finished school and is planning to study Animation with IT at College. She is also planning to continue creating cosplay outfits – in her own words “It’s something that I want to keep a passion for, to keep it fun.”

What advice would you give to a young person thinking of starting a business while still at school?

For Kitty, it was all about just giving it a go, and although her first attempt at an outfit wasn’t the best, she knew that creating and making was something she enjoyed and was determined to get better at.

“There’s a lot of fear around starting in case [what you’re doing] isn’t good enough. In the beginning it probably won’t be perfect but starting out is the best thing you can do. If you don’t start, you won’t know what it’s like.”

There’s no doubt from speaking with Kitty that she really enjoys creating cosplay masks and outfits, but also has a great mindset in making sure she is realistic about balancing time with school. Having seen some photographs of her work, I can honestly say I was astonished at the talent she has. Kitty has discovered something she loves and found a way to turn that into a manageable business. Alongside her sketches and drawings, she is definitely ‘one to watch’ in the future.