Everyone strutted around in his or her best costume at the Phoenix Comicon. One of the many Arizona-based costume groups who make appearances for charity work is the Arizona Avengers, who recently celebrated their second anniversary. They are an exclusive costuming group with their characters based in the Marvel Universe. With the recent hit-film The Avengers breaking box-office records, it is obvious that members of The Arizona Avengers are enjoying this success. They hosted a panel called "Anyone Can Be A Superhero" at the convention where we learned how to create costumes on a budget.

Working with members of the Justice League of Arizona, panel host AzPowerGirl gave us a bit of history about both teams. One thing was obvious; these groups love children and focus on charitable endeavors benefitting young people. Through fundraising for literacy, healthy-living and guest appearances at special events they create smiles, laughter and memories for the younger members of our communities.

While much of the time the panel talked about individual members and how they were recruited into the groups, the intended focus was budget costuming. Here are a few tips they shared:

First, you don't have to look like the character you identify with. It's not about being an exact duplicate. It's about exemplifying the characteristics that you relate to. Don't allow body shape, skin color, height, gender or other body characteristics slow you down.

Second, with creativity and items found around your house you can become a caped crusader on the cheap. The modification of existing items is one of the most popular ways of creating a costume since most of us do not have access to molds and the necessary equipment. Look at objects differently. Does it have the shape and size you need? Can it be repurposed with paint or added to another object to get what you want? Plus, such repurposing is recycling. Bonus!

Third, thrift stores are your friend. You may not find what you want/need every time, but be persistent. Look around! Browse both the men and women's clothing areas. The gentlemen dressed as Nick Fury admitted to finding his long coat in the women's section of a thrift store. Most often the thrift stores have discount days where you can get the most for your budget.

Fourth, friends! Our friends often have talents that we do not possess. Barter skills with a friend who can sew and have a party creating costumes. If you aren't one of the lucky ones, there are professional seamstresses as well.

Finally, use the Internet. Why reinvent the wheel? Use your favorite search engine to see what others have done. Perhaps you'll learn tips and tricks from people who have already gone through the process. Look up videos on YouTube. If you type in "how to create a superhero costume" there are over 1,300 results from no-sew capes to how to make a muscle suit for the Incredible Hulk. Let others inspire you!

Thank you to the Arizona Avengers, Justice League of Arizona and so many other costume crusaders for putting smiles on our faces and helping out those in need.