GAllery open · Explore my latest creations
Functional art,
by the stitch.
Hand-stitched textile work and cosplay from Marissa Bonamer: dresses, costumes, clergy stoles, and corsets.
Plus a journal on the journey behind every seam.
About the Maker
Hi, I’m Marissa.
I’ve been crafting for more than thirty years: from tie-dye to macramé, crochet and knitting, and the penultimate of fabric sewing and the art of cosplay. With a bachelor’s degree in fiction writing and twenty-plus years in the mortgage industry, I bring a slightly unusual flair to the world of functional art.
30+
Years Crafting
6
Disciplines
1 of 1
Every Piece
What lives in the studio.
Six categories, all built one at a time. Sewn at home in Illinois, finished by hand, sized to the person who’ll wear them. Join the studio waitlist here once I’m open for commissions!
Commissions are open across every category. See one missing? Ask.
Handbags & Shoulder Bags
Fun and possibly ridiculous bags for most any occasion. Coming soon!
Clergy Stoles
Liturgical colors, appliqué and embroidery on request. Built for the long service.
Meditation Pillows
Non-toxic recycled bean bag beads, washable covers, made to settle into. Built for the long sit.
From the studio & the faire.
Selected work, 2022–2026. New shots land here as costumes finish: the gallery grows alongside the studio.
Photo references by image.
A few honest answers.
How do you start cosplaying?
It depends on your budget and how much you can craft for yourself. Starting out buying things from others is the easiest way unless you’re crafty. Then create your own!
How do you start sewing?
The easiest way is to take a class at a local shop. But I learned from my mom and YouTube. Half of what you do when you “sew” isn’t at the machine, so it’s important to find someone who knows what they’re doing.
From the journal.
Notes from the sewing table — first entries land alongside the newsletter. Subscribe below to read them before they’re indexed.
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A Full-Time Maker’s Schedule: Time Management & Workflow Routine
Transitioning from corporate life to managing YouTube channels, creative builds, writing, and home life requires solid time management. Here’s a look at how I…
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Upcycling & Thrifted Fabric: Creative Inspiration Outside the Fabric Store
One of the things that I enjoy about crafting and sewing is finding alternate materials to work with. I’ll go to a couple different…
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My YouTube Journey: Finding Meaning in the Sewing Process
Since I started this content creator journey, I’ve realized how much work goes into creating tutorials, and how much the process has helped me…
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New work in the studio, journal posts as they go live, and the occasional event. That’s it.