How to Make a Zombie Costume for Kids

How to Make a Kid's Zombie Costume: A DIY Guide

Halloween's coming up fast! Want to make your little one a killer zombie costume? Forget those pricey store-bought ones. This guide will show you how to make a really cool, unique zombie costume yourself. It's easy, even if you've never made a costume before. Let's get started!

What Kind of Zombie?

First, what type of zombie are we making? A classic, rotting zombie? A glamorous undead prom queen? Or maybe a silly, cartoon zombie? Your choice! This decision changes what materials you'll need.

• Classic Zombie: Think ripped clothes, pale skin, and scary makeup.
• Raggedy Zombie: Lots of torn fabric and messy hair for a really worn-out look.
• Cute Zombie: Bright colors, patches, and fun makeup—less scary, more adorable!
• Zombie [insert kid's favorite character]: Zombie pirate? Zombie princess? Combine their favorite character with a zombie twist!

Gathering Your Supplies

The best part? Zombie costumes are super adaptable! You can use old clothes and stuff you already have. Here's what you might need:

• Old Clothes: Jeans, shirts, dresses...anything with some character! Holes and tears are a plus.
• Fabric Scraps: Cheesecloth, burlap, or even old t-shirts work great for a ragged look.
• Makeup: White face paint is key for that pale skin. You'll also want green, purple, and brown for bruises and wounds. Liquid latex can make really realistic wounds.
• Fake Blood: Easy to find at costume shops, or make your own with corn syrup, food coloring, and cocoa powder.
• Scissors, Glue, Pins, Needles (if sewing): The usual crafting stuff.
• Optional Accessories: Fake bones, bandages, chains…whatever looks creepy!

Making the Zombie: Step-by-Step

1. Prep the Clothes

Grab those old clothes. If they're too nice, tear 'em up a bit! Add some dirt or mud for extra realism. Cut some slits or holes to make them look decayed. Have fun with it!

2. The Makeup Magic

Time for the fun part – the makeup! Put a thick layer of white face paint on their face and neck. Then, use green, purple, and brown to paint on bruises and cuts. Blend the colors nicely. For awesome wounds, use liquid latex to make them bumpy before adding the makeup.

Don't forget the eyes! Sunken, bloodshot eyes make a zombie look real. Use darker makeup around the eyes and a little fake blood in the corners.

3. Blood and Gore (the Fun Part!)

Now for the fake blood! Drizzle or splatter it on the costume and face. Put more blood around the wounds to make them look real. Just be careful to keep it out of their eyes!

4. Accessories Time!

Add those accessories! Drape some cheesecloth or fabric scraps around their neck or arms. Attach fake bones, chains, or bandages. The more detail, the better!

5. Hair and Final Touches

Mess up their hair! Make it wild and unkempt. Add some dirt or fake blood to their hair. Once you're done, check everything is secure, especially if you used liquid latex.

Tips for a Spooktacular Costume

• Layer your fabrics: Use lots of different fabrics for a cool texture.
• Use different textures: Burlap, felt, netting…mix it up!
• Experiment!: Try different makeup and layering techniques.
• Get your kid involved!: It'll be more fun for everyone.
• Safety first!: Make sure everything you use is safe for kids.
• Take lots of pictures!: Show off your amazing creation!

Zombies for All Ages

You can adapt these ideas for different ages. For younger kids, keep it less gory and more cartoonish. Older kids can handle more realistic wounds. The most important thing is that your child loves their costume!

Conclusion

Making a zombie costume doesn't have to be hard or expensive. With a little creativity, you can make a really awesome DIY costume. Gather your supplies, get creative, and have fun making a spooktacular zombie costume this Halloween!