How to Design Homemade Egyptian Costumes
Ancient Egypt is a fascinating historical location with towering pyramids, imposing pharaohs and massive temples dedicated to the ancient Egyptians' many gods and goddesses. An Egyptian costume can bring the history of this era to life for a school project or play, and it will serve as an attention-grabbing Halloween costume as well. A detailed Egyptian costume can be constructed at home with basic craft and sewing supplies. The resulting garb is easily personalized for characters ranging from a powerful pharaoh to an enchanting princess.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Sheet
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
- Broach or pin
- Scissors
- Felt
- Fabric paint
- Plastic gems
- Bracelets or cuffs
- Sandals
Instructions
-
-
1
Wrap a sheet or piece of plain white, tan or gold cloth around the body to create a basic tunic. Wrap this just underneath the armpits for a girl, or around the waist for a boy. Secure with pins and sew shut, or fasten with a gold broach or clasp.
-
2
Cut several strips of fabric from the same material used in Step 1. Braid these strips together. Use the braided cord to make straps that go over the shoulders or around the neck for a girl's costume; sew or pin these to the top of the tunic to hold it up. Use the straps for a belt on a boy's costume.
-
-
3
Cut a piece of felt into a circle about 2 feet in diameter. When folded in half, the circle should be the right size and shape for a collar. Cut a smaller hole in the center of the circle for the head. This collar will slip over the head and rest on the shoulders.
-
4
Decorate the collar with fabric paint and plastic gems. A simple black collar with gold fabric paint along the trim will have a simple but regal look. You can also paint Egyptian symbols onto the collar piece.
-
5
Wear gold bangles, bracelets or cuffs around the ankles, wrists and upper arms. Complete the costume with plain black or brown sandals.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Carrying a staff or scepter will add an appropriately themed prop to this costume.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit egyptian drawings image by Stasys Eidiejus from Fotolia.com
