Making Halloween costumes for children at home can be enjoyable, but is not always the most practical choice. This is especially true if the children will not be helping you in the process. Since many costumes are available at reasonable prices in stores, buying a costume for your child may end up saving you a considerable amount both time and money.
In order to keep expenses down on homemade children's costumes, use old clothes you find at home or in thrift stores as the basis for the outfits. If you do this, the majority of the work on the costume will be related to the accessories, which are more fun to design and make anyway.
Think about one simple example of a child's costume: a scarecrow. More than likely, you can find an old pair of slightly ripped jeans, an old shirt, and a big straw hat that can serve as the key parts of the outfit. Then, add pieces of straw to the cuffs of the pants and the shirt, as well as to the bottom of the hat.
The details could include a bird sitting on the scarecrow's hat and some creative face painting. The idea is to create a unique and interesting look.
Another similar example is that of a pirate. The essential parts of this Halloween get up are an old shirt, cut down jeans, and a bandana. Again, this costume will rely on the details that you choose to add. Don't leave out a sword, broad belt, tattoos, and an eye patch. Make-up or face paint can add another fun touch.
A simple witch costume starts with nothing more than a long sleeved turtle neck and a pair of stretchy pants. Just add a long black cape, a tall pointy hat, and whatever other details you want.
Other old clothes can be made into animal costumes depending on the colors you use. Complete the look with mittens, ears, a tail, and the right face paint. If you prefer, you could find some accessories for animal costumes in a costume shop, such as masks, tails, noses, and ears.
If your child decides to dress up as a tiger this Halloween, then all you really need to get started is some orange clothing and black fabric paint to make stripes with. Lots of kids love Winnie the Pooh. Making this costume requires little more than a yellow outfit filled with some stuffing.
