/cgl/ - Cosplay & EGL

I've been wanting to do this for YEARS. Only thing is I have no skills in sewing let alone making mascot outfits.

How would it be a good way to build a base for a Teddie costume?

I've always wanted to cosplay mascots but I have absolutely no idea how to make a costume like this, what kind of structure is needed to keep its form?
Teddie from Persona 4 is one of my options, I'd love to make him but it will only be cool if it's really well done. Any tips please??

Ok, so I'm really trying to push myself and want to give this a go. I've never built something mascot-like before, but since this is such a simple shape (dome head!) I think I'll give it it a try.

What do people recommend for the internal structure of this? I've seen people make it with a full, solid dome for the head (I think by cloth mache-ing a pilates ball or something like that) and I've also seen it built of craft foam and no real solid stiff support (like here - http://atashi.wordpress.com/2012/08/04/persona-4-teddie-kuma-cosplay-progress/ )

What would be better? Or are there any other suggestions?

Beyond the head, should I be using some kind of internal structure to help the body keep its shape? Like boning in the seams, maybe? Also: should I be padding/stuffing it? Like, have the whole body costume be lined and put batting between the costume and lining?

I'm in the very early stages here and am I just trying to figure out how best to start.