DIY Kids Colonial Halloween Costumes

Are you searching for a kids costume idea for Halloween? You’re in luck! Get ready for a simple and adorable DIY costume, perfect for a last-minute project. Here’s how to make your very own 18th-century hat for the boys and a cap and apron for the girls—a “casual” look straight from 1776.

BOYS: 18TH-CENTURY HAT
SUPPLIES
1. Three pieces of 9″ x 12” black foam paper
2. One piece of 12” x 18” black foam paper
3. Scissors
4. Stapler
5. Decorations (feather, ribbon)

*I got my foam paper from Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store

DIRECTIONS
1. Cut out three “roller coaster” shaped pieces using this template.

2. Fold up bottom edge of each side and staple.

3. Staple the three cutout shapes together in a triangle.

4. Use the 12″ x 18″ sheet to create the top of the hat from the inside.

Staple to the interior of the “triangle” or frame created by the first three shapes.

5. Trim the edges on the bottom.

5. Decorate (let your imagination run wild!)

GIRLS: CAP AND APRON
SUPPLIES:
1. White Fabric (enough to cut out circle to cover head and to create an apron)
2. Scissors
3. Ribbon

DIRECTIONS
1. Use the cloth to trace a circle, the size of your child’s head. Cut the fabric to desired size.

2. Fold over material, and snip small holes ¼” apart around fabric of entire cap.

3. Weave a ribbon through the holes.

4. Pull tightly on the ribbon to form the cap; tie a bow in the back.

5. Repeat steps 1-4 using a rectangular fabric piece, the size of an apron. When weaving the ribbon, only weave along the top of the apron.

Now that the boy’s 18th-century hat and little girl’s cap and apron are created, may we suggest a few 21st-century items to finish creating the “look?”

For a boy’s costume, you can use many items you likely already have. You will need a button-up shirt, which you will end up buttoning ¾ the way up, and a pair of skinny pants or capris. Pull knee socks up over the pants and pair with black shoes. For added effect, tie a ribbon or fabric piece loosely around the neck. To complete your costume, use accessories such as a messenger bag and a wooden stick as a gun.

To achieve the “look” for the girls, you will need a ¾ sleeve cotton dress. In the 18th century, exposed elbows were not appropriate, so make sure the dress covers the elbows. Pair your dress of choice with knee socks and black shoes. Do not forget a woven basket to hold all the candy! Add your DIY apron and cap and you are ready to go for the day, or out for a little trick-or-treating. If you are searching for the perfect dress, we found this one at target.com. We think it would make a great girls colonial costume and—even better—it’s on clearance!

UPDATE: For a ready-made costume available for purchase, click here.

Will you try to make either of these costumes or will you dress up as someone from the 18th century this Halloween? Share with a friend who might need some inspiration and let us know how it turns out. We would love to see your pictures!