How to Make Superhero Capes for a Kid's Party

For Truth, Justice and a Slice of Cake!

Despite the inherent impracticality of capes for crime-fighters, many beloved superheroes wear one. In turn, these capes spark the imagination of children. Not only do capes add a theatrical flair to an outfit, they also symbolize a sense of adventure. Therefore, including capes at a kid’s party will make it more exciting in the moment and memorable over time. Of course, trying to make a cape for every child can be a significant investment of time, so simpler is better.

Things You'll Need

• Fleece or felt fabric of varying solid colors
• Washable marker
• Measuring tape
• Fabric shears

Instructions

1. Measure out and mark an isosceles triangle on the fabric using a washable marker. Make the bottom of the triangle 3 feet wide and the two sides 4 1/2 feet long. This is the outline of the cape itself.

2. Measure and mark a 1-foot line straight down from the top point of the triangle. From the bottom of that line, draw a perpendicular line to 1/2 inch away from either edge of the triangle. This perpendicular line, once it has been cut, will form the collar of the cape.

3. Measure 1/2-inches straight down from the top point of the triangle. Draw a line from that point to both ends of the collar line. These new lines mark out the ties for the cape.

4. Cut along all the lines you have drawn. The result will be a triangular piece of cloth with a smaller triangle cut out of it near the top. Remember to cut straight down from the tip of the larger triangle, as this will separate the two ties and allow the cape to be worn and adjusted for individual children.

5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 until you have a sufficient number of capes for the party.

6. Wash and dry the garments so that they will be ready for use.

7. Tie a cape around each child's neck using a simple, loose shoelace knot.

Tips & Warnings

• This design will best fit a child between the ages of 8 and 10. For older children, increase each dimension by 1 foot. For slightly younger children, decrease the two side dimensions by a single foot. For much younger children, also decrease the bottom dimension by a foot.

• To make the cape into a memorable party favor, cut out contrasting fabric in the shape of each child’s initials and sew these onto their respective capes, roughly 6 inches down from the collar.

• Both felt and fleece are fray resistant -- although fleece is more resilient and hardy than felt -- so no hemming is required. The edges of the capes will need to be sewn to avoid fraying if you select a different fabric type.

• Small or unruly children should not be left unattended while wearing capes, as they are a potential choking hazard.

References

• The Long Thread; Make it Monday; January 2008