I'm a perfectionist on my costumes and I go through hours of staring contests with fabric and models before I start on an actual project. Works well most of the time. I have fully created 2 of my costumes by myself so my experience with costume-making is minimal, but I'm proud of my current quality.
It is my belief that there are three types of Cosplay creationists in this world. Those who are great at hair and wig styling, those who are great at sewing and clothcraft, and those who are great at prop work and construction. Rarely does expertise in these fields cross, but to tentatively reach the master's category, one must be at the very least highly skilled in all these aspects.
Recently discovered an affinity to pink insulation foam, so I'm furthering an expertise in prop work construction.