15 DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids

5 min read September 13, 2026 Kelly Reilly
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DIY Halloween costumes for kids are one of the most creative ways to celebrate the holiday. We’ve selected our 15 favorite Halloween costumes for kids that will make them one-of-a-kind while trick-or-treating or at their school party. Whether you’re a crafting guru or this is your first-ever attempt, there’s a homemade Halloween costume you and your little one are sure to love!

1.
DIY Wizard of Oz Costumes

Dress the whole family as classic movie characters with four different Wizard of Oz tutorials: Glinda, the Tin ManDorothy, and a Munchkin! No matter your kids’ ages, they can easily play a role your Oz-themed Halloween.

(Photo Source: Make It & Love It)

15 DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids step 1
2.
DIY Hot Air Balloon Costume

Take your homemade Halloween costume creativity to new heights with this DIY hot air balloon costume. A basic basket, some gold spray paint, and a balloon come together for a costume that’s sure to stand out! Plus, crafting it is easier than you think.

(Photo Source: Style Me Pretty)

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3.
DIY Fluffy White Cloud Costume

If you haven’t paper mached since you were in elementary school, here’s your chance! Your little one will float from house to house in this fun, fuzzy get-up you can customize.

(Photo Source: Oh Happy Day)

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4.
DIY Circus Performer Costume

Need to whip up a last-minute costume with things you already have lying around the house? Look no further than this sweet circus performer outfit, made from re-purposed dress-up clothes.

(Photo Source: A Subtle Revelry)

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5.
DIY Charlie Brown Costume

If your little one has yet to grow hair this so-simple costume won’t be much of a stretch. Use fabric paint or tape to apply a chevron to a yellow body suit, add a stuffed Snoopy, and voila! Shop all things Peanuts®.

(Photo Source: Emily McCall)

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6.
DIY Mermaid Costume

All you need is an hour and a half and a few basic supplies to create this so-cute mermaid costume. This video tutorial makes completing it last-minute even easier!

(Photo Source: The Sewing Rabbit)

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7.
Pumpkin Spice Latte (and Donut!)

We all love our #PSLs come fall, so why not dress your little one up as the season’s quintessential drink? Siblings can go as a sprinkled donut for a sweetly irresistible pair.

(Photo Source: Carlin Fisher Photography)

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8.
DIY Elsa Costume

If your little girl is obsessed with all things Frozen, make her this gorgeous DIY Halloween costume from Kiki and Company. You’ll need some time and sewing skills for this DIY, but the investment will be totally worth it when she continues to wear it for dress-up long after trick-or-treating is over. (And don’t forget Kristoff for your boy!)

(Photo Source: Kiki and Company)

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9.
No-Sew Owl Costume

A quick trip to the craft store, some basic supplies and a bit of time are all you need to create this adorable baby owl look! The headband is a unique touch that rivals store-bought.

(Photo Source: Girl Loves Glam)

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10.
DIY Thomas the Tank Costume

This wow-worthy replica is made from cardboard boxes! Designed by a former architect, this costume incorporates smart tips and tricks for a seamless final product. Complete the look with a ready-made conductor outfit!

(Photo Source: Little Red Window)

15 DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids step 10
11.
DIY She-ra Costume

This throwback costume is sure to stir up nostalgia for those of you who grew up in the ’80s. Pass it on to the next generation with this fun, fierce costume for your little warrior-ette! Bonus: It comes with a free pattern and detailed instructionsFind the perfect matching sword!

(Photo Source: The Paper Mama)

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12.
DIY Tree Costume

Nothing says fall like this tree costume, with clever details like a bird-nest hat, sewn-on felt fall foliage, and a trunk with a squirrel snacking on acorns. Your little nature lover will go crazy for it!

(Photo Source: Probably Actually)

13.
DIY Football Player and Ball Costume

The perfect costume combo for two brothers, this easy costume requires little work and comes together in minutes. Use a pre-made jersey, and apply iron-on strips (or even tape) to a brown onesie for a simply adorable duo.

(Photo Source: Jess McClenahan)

15 DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids step 13
14.
DIY Cupcake Costume

The secret supply that keeps this cupcake standing upright? Hula hoops! A smartly re-purposed window shade mimics a wrapper in this precious costume that requires surprisingly little hands-on time.

(Photo Source: Oh Happy Day)

15 DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids step 14
15.
DIY Bulldozer Costume

If your little guy can’t get enough of all things machine, dress him up in this super realistic bulldozer costume! The main compartment is a diaper box, which chances are you already have lying around!

(Photo Source: Mama Say What)

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16.
DIY Baby Cow Costume

You can’t help but smile at this little cow costume that comes complete with udders (aka bottle nipples)! A simple spot pattern is attached to an existing body suit and warm hat for a complete look.

Be sure to check out our Halloween Headquarters for more Halloween fun!

15 DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids step 16

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