How to Dress Up With a Joe the Plumber Costume

You can add plumber accessories to the basic costume to dress as Joe the Plumber.

Joe the Plumber became a household name during the campaign trail of the 2008 Presidential election. A man from the audience addressed then-democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, inquiring about Obama's tax plan and its impact on his plumbing business. That man was Joe Wurzelbacher, AKA Joe the Plumber. As a result, "Joe the Plumber" became a metaphor for middle-class Americans during the campaign. A media frenzy took off when Joe the Plumber was referenced 23 times in a single political debate, making Joe the Plumber costumes a much sought-after Halloween costume.

Things You'll Need

• Bald-headed wig
• Fake goatee
• White T-shirt
• Fabric paint
• Piece of 10-by-12-inch cardboard
• Paint brush
• Over-sized, low-rise jeans
• White socks
• Construction boots
• Plumber's tool box
• Plunger

Instructions

1. 

   Smooth the cap to eliminate bumps.

   Choose a bald-head cap that matches the color of your skin. Place cap over your head as directed by the manufacturer. Check to see that all your hair is enclosed within the cap and nothing is sticking out. Place a fake goatee on your chin by following the package instructions.

2. 

   Make sure to use washable paint if you want to keep the costume.

   Lay a white T-shirt on a flat surface. Slip cardboard into the shirt. Dip a paint brush into the fabric paint and carefully write the words "Joe's Plumbing Business" or "Joe the Plumber" on the shirt. Allow to dry overnight.

3. 

   Let everyone see the insides of your jean pockets.

   Put on a pair of jeans. Pull the pockets inside out to represent Joe's concern for money.

4. 

   Wear sturdy shoes in a yellow or beige color.

   Wear a pair of white socks and construction boots.

5. 

   A plunger is synonymous with a plumber.

   Carry a tool box and a plunger.

Tips & Warnings

• Use phrases such as "I'm being taxed more and more for fulfilling the American dream."

• Make sure your jeans don't slip down too far. Wear a belt if necessary.

References

• The New York Times; Plumber From Ohio Is Thrust Into Spotlight; Larry Rohter; October 2008
• First Read; Joe the Plumber; Mark Murray
• The Washington Times: Joe the Plumber Stars in Final Debate
• CBS News; Who Is Joe the Plumber; October 2008