How to Make a Severus Snape Costume

Professor Severus Snape was Harry Potter's least favorite teacher. Snape was bullied by Harry's father, James, and in love with Harry's mother, Lily. His feelings and actions toward Harry are mixed; sometimes unfair, sometimes protective. If you want to achieve the look of this greasy haired professor this Halloween, follow these tips to make a Severus Snape costume.

Instructions

1. Use a cassock or high-necked jacket. Many sewing pattern books have cassock, or priest's jacket, patterns. A high necked jacket, such as a Victorian or Nehru jacket, will also work, as long as it is black.

2. Add a black robe. The best robe is a black graduation gown. These may be found at thrift stores or costume shops. An alternative is a black bathrobe.

3. Oil the hair. Snape is known for his long, oily hair. Use hair cream or gel to make the hair shiny and stringy; use a temporary hair rinse to make the hair black.

4. Apply makeup. Professor Snape has pale skin and black eyes. Select a pale shade makeup and use over the face and neck.

5. Get a wand. Snape was a master duelist and an accomplished wizard. Use a slightly pointed stick as a wand; add a little carving or decoration to make it look more realistic.

6. Add a Dark Mark. As a former Death Eater, Snape had the Dark Mark (Voldemort's brand) on the left forearm. The mark is in the shape of a skull with a snake coming out of the mouth. It is normally red, but turns black when Voldemort uses it to summon the Death Eaters. Use red or black makeup, such as lip liner or eye liner pencils, to draw the Dark Mark on the arm.

7. Carry other props. As Potions master, Snape used cauldrons and vials. A small cast iron pot or plastic bottle could substitute for these props. Also, a quill or feather pen would be an appropriate prop for Snape.

Tips & Warnings

• Snape had conflicting wizarding loyalties; a former follower of evil Voldemort, Snape joined Dumbledore to help defeat the evil leader. Later, in a twist, Snape killed Dumbledore. Harry and Snape are reconciled in the end.

• Get friends together to make a Harry Potter character group. Professor Snape could be with other Hogwarts staff, such as Professor McGonagall, Albus Dumbledore and Hagrid.

• Good sources for costumes are thrift stores and used clothing stores. Look for props as well as clothing.

• Always follow Halloween safety guidelines when making a costume for Halloween. Masks should not obstruct the vision. Use cloth that is fire-retardant. Reflective tape should be added to dark costumes. Costumes should not be so long as to be a tripping hazard. Carry a flashlight.