Turning a paper bag into a costume is a budget and eco-friendly idea but cannot be adorable and durable without a proper guide. Check out this list of 18 Best DIY paper bag costume ideas for kids and adults with fun themes to try for both Halloween and Thanksgiving. They are easy enough that even kids can craft them with you and just need some paint, construction paper, and scissors. With the professional tutorials available, they can also be put-off many times if with proper care.
DIY Paper Bag Costume Ideas
If you don't want to use the box for costumes but a scrap of paper bags, these DIY paper bag costume ideas will be perfect. They will be especially loved by little ones and great choice for kids parades and group costumes:
Paper Bag Turkey Craft
This Paper Bag Turkey Craft is equally perfect for Thanksgiving and Halloween. It's so simple that it can be completed in just a few minutes with just requiring paper cuttings and gluing. You will need a large brown paper bag and some colorful construction paper, transforming into an adorable turkey costume. This activity not only sparks creativity but also makes for a cute holiday outfit.
Pumpkin, Pirate, and Flower Garden Costumes
Here are three Halloween-suitable DIY Paper Bag Costumes, including the Pumpkin, Pirate, and Flower Garden. Using large paper bags and acrylic paint, these costumes are simple and budget-friendly. They are best for toddlers. Each costume features unique elements: a Pumpkin with a jack-o-lantern face, a Pirate with a bold sash and skull, and a Flower Garden blooming with color marks. Tip: For a smoother painting process, apply multiple coats and let each dry thoroughly.
Paper Bag Princess Costume
The Paper Bag Princess Costume is inspired by the beloved book character by Robert Munsch. Making the costume is relatively simple, utilizing items like Ikea bags, duct tape, and velcro, making it sturdy and wearable. This costume includes beautiful details, such as a glittery crown fastened to a headband for easy wear. It’s a fantastic choice for encouraging imaginative play or a themed party. A handy tip: Use a flowy tank top as a template to ensure the costume fits comfortably.
Paper Bag Dragon Costume
This Paper Bag Dragon Costume is very detailed but requires over an hour to make. Designed for adults to assemble for children aged 6 and over, this project has an intermediate difficulty level! A useful tip: ensure all edges are smooth to keep the costume comfortable and safe for children to wear.
Frankenstein Costume
Create a spooktacular Frankenstein costume for Halloween with just a paper bag, some paint, and scissors! This no-sew craft is perfect for kids, allowing them to make their own disguise with materials easily found at home. The costume can be enhanced with glow-in-the-dark paint for an eerie effect and worn with black clothes to complete the look.
Rocketship, House, and Robot Costume
Transform simple paper bags into imaginative costumes like a Rocketship, House, or Robot with just a few supplies like spray paint, cardstock, and a glue gun. They are perfect for sparking creativity in kids and offer a fun, budget-friendly option. A pro tip: Let each layer of glue dry thoroughly to ensure your costume lasts through all your adventures!
Truck and Painting Costume
The Firetruck costume comes to life with detailed cutouts and vivid colors, while the Mondrian Painting costume uses primary colors and black lines for an artistic effect. Ideal for Halloween, themed parties, or imaginative play, these costumes promise a creative and enjoyable crafting experience.
Zebra, Crown, and Fisherman's Vest
Here are three easy-to-make paper bag costumes. Dress up as a Stripey Zebra with painted stripes and a crafted head mask, or a royal figure with a custom paper crown. Those who love fishing can fashion a Reel Cute Fisherman's Vest, adding pockets and hand-drawn fish. These costumes are accessible for all due to their low difficulty level and household materials.
Paper Bag Butterfly
Turn your daughter into a butterfly costume with this guide. This costume uses simple materials like a paper bag, paints, felt, chenille sticks, and pom-poms to craft wings and antennae. It's easy to make, with a bit of adult assistance needed for tasks like cutting cardboard. Ideal for events or just dress-up fun, it enhances fine motor skills through painting and crafting.
Sephora Shopping Bag Costume
Create a unique Sephora Shopping Bag Costume easily and affordably! You'll need just three white poster boards, black duct tape, rope or ribbon for handles, and some striped tissue paper for flair. This simple project transforms basic materials into a fun costume with a few steps—cut, fold, tape, and add stripes. Perfect for kids' Halloween or dress-up, it's a beginner-friendly task that takes less than an hour.
