How to Make a Tin Man Costume for Kids

Turn an ordinary funnel and other items into a Tin Man costume.

The Tin Woodman is one of many beloved characters created by L. Frank Baum for his Oz series of books. The character has appeared in many adaptations, most recognizably in the 1939 musical film "The Wizard of Oz." A Tin Man costume can be made out of cardboard, along with a funnel and a few other basic materials. This costume works well on its own, or in a group of kids dressed up as Oz characters.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard box
• Razor blade
• Hot glue gun
• Plastic axe
• Plastic funnel
• Sandpaper
• Tarp
• Spray primer
• Spray paint
• Red construction paper
• Scissors
• Gray or silver pants and shirt
• Silver makeup
• Makeup sponge
• Bobby pins

Instructions

1. Cut the bottom out of a box that will fit snugly over your child's torso with a razor blade. Cut holes for the head and arms as well.

2. Apply drops of hot glue to the box where desired to simulate rivets. Allow the glue to dry.

3. Sand the surface of a plastic toy axe and a funnel large enough to fit your child's head as a hat with 300-grit sandpaper. This will prepare the plastic surfaces for paint.

4. Lay a tarp on the floor to protect your work area.

5. Spray the box, axe and funnel with two coats of spray primer, holding the can 12 inches away from the surface. Allow each coat to dry fully.

6. Spray the box, axe and funnel with two coats of chrome spray paint, allowing each layer to dry.

7. Cut a heart out of red construction paper and glue it to the chest area on the box.

8. Dress your child in the costume, along with gray or silver pants and shirt.

9. Apply silver makeup to your child's face with a makeup sponge.

10. Use bobby pins to attach the funnel to your child's hair.

References

• Costume Maker: Easy No-Sew Costume Ideas
• Automotive Touchup: Aerosol Touch Up Spray Paint Cans