DIY Kids’ Costume Ideas Anyone Can Actually Do
Let’s be real: most parents want a costume that’s cute, affordable, and doesn’t require three hours, a craft degree, or a sewing machine. At Cupkin, we believe in celebrating real family moments—so here are tried-and-true DIY costumes you’ll see on playgrounds, TikTok, and Instagram, with easy-to-find photos for every single idea.
1. The Classic Animal Onesie
Get yours here!
Why parents love it:
- Zero sewing.
- Comfy for long trick-or-treat walks.
- Works as pajamas after Halloween!
Real-life inspo: Target, Carter’s, and Amazon all feature real families posting “costume night” in onesies—just search Instagram for #AnimalOnesieKids.
2. Cardboard Box Vehicles
Get full instructions here!
Why parents love it:
- Upcycle a delivery box into a race car, fire truck, train, or airplane.
- Markers, paint, and paper plates = instant wow.
Real-life inspo: Pinterest and TikTok are full of families showing toddlers “driving” their creations down the sidewalk.
3. Chef Costume With Apron and Utensils
Get the full DIY here!
Why parents love it:
- Apron + chef hat (paper or fabric) + wooden spoon.
- No glue, no sewing, no stress.
- Bento box or Cupkin cup = perfect prop.
Real-life inspo: Instagram’s #TinyChefChallenge and YouTube’s family cooking videos.
4. Superhero T-Shirts and DIY Capes
Why parents love it:
- Superhero t-shirt + pillowcase or towel for cape.
- Add mask (paper, felt, or store-bought).
What to search:
Photos of kids in superhero shirts with homemade capes.
Real-life inspo: Search “DIY superhero costume kid” on Google Images or Pinterest for hundreds of adorable, accessible examples.
5. Flower, Fruit, or Veggie Costumes (Costume T-Shirts + Accessories)
Get the full tutorial at liagriffith.com!
Why parents love it:
- Green leggings + flower headband = instant daisy.
- Yellow tee + felt dots = adorable pineapple.
Real-life inspo: Instagram: #FruitCostume #FlowerCostume
6. Classic Ghost (White Sheet With Eye Holes)
Check out all of cleaneatingwithkids.com diy costumes here!
Why parents love it:
- It’s the OG for a reason.
- Even toddlers can help cut/fold the sheet.
Real-life inspo: Every social platform in October! Search #GhostTrend on TikTok for viral family moments.