|
Instead of pulling a costume on or over your body, try carrying your costume like a pair of opera glasses, or like a shield in front of your entire body. No breathing problems. Fun to use. Fun to make. Easy to make. Easy to share. And easy to set aside while you bob for apples. Let’s call this creation a Character Shield.
- Shape your character’s lightweight silhouette. Carve a 4x8-foot sheet of thick polystyrene foam insulation to correct size and shape.
- Fashion a way to easily carry the character shield in front of you. Cut handle holes or fashion straps that your arm slides through.
- Create a face for your character shield. Use an old mask, form a face with putty, paint a face, or glue on a face from a poster or magazine (Use a glue that will not melt the polystyrene).
- Add the clothing. Glue, stitch, or staple shaped pieces of fabric or discarded clothing to create your character’s outfit.
- Add accessories. Strap a belt around your character, add jewelry, a scarf, a hat, a handkerchief – whatever.
- Dress yourself entirely in black, comfortable clothes. You will just be a shadow behind your Character Shield.
- Strengthen your shield. Unless your polystyrene foam is thick enough, it may break easily. So you may want to first cover the polystyrene with glued on fabric, cardboard, or strips of duct tape. This will increase durability and longevity.
|
