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How to Make a Superhero Cape From a Tablecloth

Contributor
By Carl Hose
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Not all superheroes wear capes, but that doesn't stop a cape from being one of the iconic elements many of us think about when we consider superheroes. Almost everyone can picture Superman's red cape with the S emblem right at the cape's center. Many little boys, and even a few girls, spent a lot of their childhood running around with a towel or piece of cloth tied like a cape. Put a smile on your child's face by turning a tablecloth into the ultimate superhero accessory.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Tablecloth
  • Marker
  • Scissors
  • Needle
  • Thread
  • Superhero emblem
  • Acrylic paint
  • Paint brush
  • Waterproof spray
  1. Step 1

    Choose a tablecloth that's the color of your favorite superhero's cape.

  2. Step 2

    Hold the tablecloth up to your child, mark the length, then cut it to size with scissors. The cape can reach your child's knees or be closer to the floor.

  3. Step 3

    Cut out an area to fit the tablecloth cape around your child's neck from the top of the fabric. Sew a small button at the neck and make a buttonhole on the other side to keep the cape secure when your child wears it.

  4. Step 4

    Fold the edges of the cape over to form a 5/8" seam and sew it with a zig-zag stitch. You can use a straight stitch, but the zig-zag will hold better. The stitch will prevent your child's superhero cape from fraying around the edges when he wears it or when it gets washed.

  5. Step 5

    Use colorful acrylic paints to make your own emblems as an alternative to purchasing a superhero emblem. Paint directly onto the cape for a bright, vibrant superhero emblem. Acrylic paint is waterproof and works well on fabric, but spray it with a coat of clear waterproof sealant for extra protection.

  6. Step 6

    Sew a superhero emblem from the store onto the back of the cape if you decide not to make your own. Do two over and under stitching passes with the needle and thread to ensure it stays in place.

Tips & Warnings
  • Purchase official superhero sew-on patches at online auction sites or specialty shops.
  • Wait five days before washing capes with hand-painted emblems. These capes should be washed by hand.

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