Do it Yourself Indian Clothing for Girls
Native American costumes are worn by youngsters each year for Halloween, Thanksgiving and school plays. Stories about Pocahontas and Sacajawea can leave a young girl dreaming of being a Native American princess or a pioneering squaw. With no sewing needed, you can make a simple Indian dress for much less than the purchase price.
Things You'll Need
- Fake suede or brown felt material
- Brown belt
- Colorful, medium-size beads
- Scissors
- Brown, short-sleeved leotard
- Measuring tape
Instructions
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1
Measure the child from her shoulders to just below her shins. Multiply that number for the length of material needed. Measure her back from one mid-bicep to the other mid-bicep, across the shoulders. This is the width of the material needed. Measure the diameter of the top of the child's head. Keep this measurement for Step 3.
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2
Using your length and width measurements from Step 1, purchase a piece of brown fake suede or felt. Cut away any excess to match the measurement needed.
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3
Fold the material in half, short ends together. Cut a line in the center of the fold as long as the diameter of the child's head. Cut shallow, half-moon shapes on either side of the cut to form the head opening. This opening may need to be enlarged for easier access after the child tries on the smock.
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4
Dress the child in a brown leotard. Place the fabric over the child's head. Wrap the sides of the material around her body and close with a brown belt.
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5
Cut thin strips about 3 inches long from the bottom of the material upward. Cut the same size strips at the shoulder/arm area. The strips form fringe.
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6
Slide the beads onto most or all of the fringe strips. Tie the fabric in knots below the beads to secure them.
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Tips & Warnings
Fake suede material is more durable than felt, especially If you intend to reuse the costume.
For cold days, add brown or flesh-tone tights to the outfit underneath the leotard.
