DIY Halloween costume ideas for kids that won’t cost you a thing

Halloween costumes don’t have to cost a fortune. Picture: Daisy Anderson / Pexels

Halloween costumes don’t have to cost a fortune. Picture: Daisy Anderson / Pexels

Published Oct 16, 2024

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Halloween is just around the corner, and while it's a fun time for kids, the cost of costumes can quickly add up.

But there’s no need to spend a fortune on hiring costumes when you can easily make them yourself.

Getting your kids involved in the process can make it a fun experience as well.

Here are some tips for crafting cheap yet creative Halloween costumes for your little ones.

Raid your closet

One of the most cost-effective ways to create a fun costume is by repurposing old clothes.

Look through your child’s wardrobe for old or outgrown items that can be transformed.

A striped shirt can become a pirate outfit, while a superhero cape can be made from a piece of old fabric.

You can turn old torn clothes into a zombie costume by ripping it up some more and covering it with dirt.

Add finishing touches with items you already have, like hats, belts, or jewellery.

A pair of sunglasses can turn a child into a secret agent, while a tiara can make them a queen or king.

Use household items

Create masks, hats, or shields from cardboard. You can decorate them with paint, markers, or stickers.

Old newspapers, magazines, or plastic bottles can be used to create costumes as well.

For example, a newspaper can be turned into a mummy costume, while a plastic bottle can become a robot arm.

Create masks from cardboard boxes. Picture: Daisy Anderson / Pexels

Nature’s costumes

Incorporate natural elements into your costumes.

Leaves can be used to create a fairy or forest creature, while flowers can be used to turn your little one into a hippie or flower child.

DIY makeup

Using face paint is an easy way to create spooky or whimsical looks.

A simple white base can be used to create a ghost, while a green face can turn your child into a monster.

Use dark eye makeup around the eye to mimic the walking dead.

It’s easy to create a scary face with face paint. Picture: Freepik

Homemade props

Make props for your costumes using items from around the house.

Something as simple as a broomstick can be a little witch's accessory while a stick can easily be made into a magician's wand.

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and create a costume that your child will love.

IOL Lifestyle