How to Make an Adult Cape

A cape can add flair to an adult costume.

Adult capes come in handy to add something extra to a costume. Maybe you're looking to dress up as a superhero, a witch, a vampire or Red Riding Hood. All of these costumes require a cape to be complete. However, there are special steps that you should take when making an adult-sized cape. Measuring the cape according to a person's height ensures that the length of the cape is sufficient while also being safe.

Things You'll Need

• fabric
• tape measure
• chalk
• needle and thread
• ribbon

Instructions

1. Choose the material for your cape. Fleece, velvet or cloth all work well for creating a cape.

2. Measure the material based on your height. The cape should ideally start from your shoulders and end just below your hips. However, if you're planning to wear a costume that requires the cape to be longer, measure the cape from your shoulders to the desired length along your body.

3. Measure the width of your shoulders to ensure that the material will cover them. Your shoulder width will determine how wide the cape should be.

4. Use your measurements to draw an outline in chalk for the shape of your cape. The cape should be bell-shaped, with the top drawn for the width of your shoulders. Add an extra inch to account for the hem of the cape.

5. Cut the cape out of the fabric by following along the chalk line.

6. Make a hem for the cape by folding the edges of the cape. Pin the fabric in place and sew the edges of the cape to the fabric.

7. Create a tie to hold your cape in place. Use a ribbon that is twice the width of your shoulders so that it can be tied into place. Center the ribbon just below the collar of the cape. Sew it along the inside of the cape.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also add embellishments to your cape to make it stand out.

References

• Customego: How to Make a Custom Two-Layer Cape