15 DIY Halloween costumes for kids
From spooky to whimsical, try your hand at one of these DIY Halloween costumes for kids that range from simple to advanced.
Halloween costumes for kids
Make-your-own costume
Making a costume is a great way to save money and put your creatively skills to the test—not to mention win extra brownie points from your kids! Try your hand at one of these clever DIY costumes. Don't fret if you're not crafty, we have a roundup of affordable store-bought costumes, too.
Read more: 15 store-bought costumes under $25>
Anna from Frozen costume
Do you want to build a snowman? You probably could during a Canadian Halloween. And here's the perfect costume to do it in.
Get the instructions: The Sewing Rabbit>
Elsa from Frozen costume
Some kids prefer curious, sweet Anna, while others love the majesty of fierce, independent Elsa—so of course we had to add a costume how-to for each. Check out this simple-to-follow tutorial for creating a beautiful costume for the Ice Queen.
Get the instructions: Kiki & Company>
Darth Vader and Princess Leia costumes
Raea, 4, and Jade, 1, had the force on their side with this amazing homemade Darth Vader and Princess Leia getup.
Submitted by Dana Stefanson
The Birds costume
Blogger Elizabeth drew inspiration from Hitchcock's classic film The Birds starring a young Tippi Hedren (Melanie Griffith's mom) for this in-a-flash costume. Shop your local thift store for a vintage-y green dress to complete the look.
Get the instructions: Simple Simon and Company>
Peanut Girl costume
When TP reader Kristine Trautman's daughter wanted to be something scary for Halloween, a peanut wasn't exactly what she had in mind. Here's what Kristine had to say about her daughter Arabella's costume:
"I said 'how is a peanut scary?' She said a lot of kids in her class are terrified of peanuts and she doesn't know why. After chuckling a bit I explained the peanut allergy to her."
Submitted by Kristine Trautman
Scooby AND Batman costume
Three-year-old Declyn just couldn't make up his mind so he went as Scooby Doo dressed up as Batman. Can you even handle the cuteness? Here he is at Magnetic Hill's Boo at the Zoo in New Brunswick. Visiting local thrift stores, like Value Village, is a great place to find costume inspiration.
Submitted by Gillian Hubley
Minnie Mouse
Four-year-old Isabella is a little comedian. Her mom, Jessica, explains this precious costume choice: Isabella LOVES being a ‘ham’ and seizes any opportunity to wear a tutu or a big fluffy skirt. She also loves Minnie Mouse and wanted to combine the best of both worlds, so we went with a tutu version of the classic Minnie Mouse!
They purchased a tutu, but you can easily make your own.
Read more: Craft: A no-sew tutu>
Submitted by Jessica Lanthier
Stick person costume
If your kids aren't crazy about getting dressed, let alone putting on a cumbersome costume, here's a simple and cute idea. TP reader Jordana taped glow sticks (available at most department and dollar stores) to her two-year-old daughter Isobel's hoodie and pants. Isobel didn't want to have on anything bulky or itchy so this was the perfect solution. They made it tear-free around the block.
Submitted by Jordana Malin
Nesting doll costume
Who can resist the sentiment of this Matryoshka doll costume? The nesting getup means the big sister protects the little sister. Aw! The whole costume-making process isn't too tricky, either.
Get the instructions: The Sewing Rabbit>
Fireman Sam costume
The clever creator of this sweet costume—based on the Welsh animated series that debuted in the '80s—went straight to the fabric store to create this great getup. If you're not a skilled sewer, take a look at your local thrift shop for yellow pants and a blue shirt to paint jacket decals on with fabric paint.
Get the instructions: One Little Minute>
Elephant costume
Create this adorable elephant costume using upcycled fabrics and other basic supplies you likely already have on hand. This was made using an old T-shirt and hoodie.
Get the instructions: If They Would Only Nap>
Owl costume
Whoo can resist this cute feathered friend? A great costume for people who are comfortable on a sewing machine, your little one will be the talk of the neighbourhood in this whimsical owl suit.
Get the instructions: Kiki & Company>
She-Ra Princess of Power costume
Parents born in the '70s: Take note! Introduce your wee one to the magic and splendour of He-Man's twin sister, She-Ra. Equipped with extreme strength and empathy, she's the perfect role model for kids.
Get the instructions: Rae Gun Ramblings>
Witch costume
Upgrade the standard witchy costume with this fun tutorial. P.S. The dress is made out of a men's shirt and fabric paint. So clever and fun!
Get the instructions: Sew Country Chick>
Princess Merida from Brave costume
Little Brave fans will swoon over this Celtic garb. The yarn wig is actually easier to make than it looks.
Get the instructions for Merida's dress: Sew Can Do>
Get the instructions for the yarn wig and accessories: Sew Can Do>
More fun costume ideas!
No-sew Halloween costumes: Balloons>
These no-sew Halloween costumes using balloons are adorable, easy to make, and cost less than $25.
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Amy is a freelance writer and editor based in Toronto, Ontario. Her work can also be found in publications like Chatelaine, Toronto Life and The Globe and Mail.