Yo! Maybe it's first-timer nerves, but I'm in a panic already ^^;; Three months and already in a rush...

Anyways, all nerves aside, I'm in a bit of a pickle. I don't have the funds, or time, to use real leather in one of my cosplays, so I'm wondering if anyone could suggest any cheaper alternatives that are out there. I'd like it if it was sturdy enough to pass off as the real deal, but given the circumstances, anything will do. Any suggestions?

Leatherette? I've never worked with it personally, so maybe someone else can weigh in on how easy it is to sew and how expensive it is, but I suspect that's the closest you'll get to real leather without going the whole hog.

I've never considered working with leather, I think you'd need proper leatherworking tools or risk damaging things. Leatherette is generaly suitable - it's about £4-8 where I live, comes in a few colours and isn't too hard to sew. It can be quite thick, so go careful when you sew it. I'd recommend using a leather or a denim needle, especially on the thicker stuff.

If it's not rigid enough (if you're making armour plates etc) you can always back it onto something.

What were you planning on using it for, out of interest, so we can get a better idea?

I have to agree with everyone, leatherette is probably best, in addition to ailsa-chan's comment about a good thick needle, I've had issues with it not going through my sewing machine very smoothly, apparently is you shake a little talcum powder (baby powder) on it, it should glide through and wont affect your machine!

Never tried it as I only got that after I'd done my leatherette sewing, but it's meant to help!

It's for my Kimahri cosplay. I was gonna use it for the harness he wears, along with the bracers and such.

The Leatherette stuff looks interesting. I'll give it a go and see how it works out. Thanks, guys!

Yeah, leatherette should do you good for that. It takes paint quite well so if you can't find the exact colours you need you don't have to worry too much.

i have the problem that it sticks to the needle plate if i have it upside down. the talcum powder idea is good. (notes it down to remember next time) ^^

Leatherette is a gift from the gods.

Seriously, using real leather is unnecessary, leatherette will look just as good for stuff like harnesses and belts.

Good luck with it!