Do it yourself pennywise costume ideas 2024

DIY Pennywise Costume: A Comprehensive Guide

The Costume

Materials Needed:

• White or off-white fabric (preferably with some stretch)
• Cream-colored or light beige fabric for ruffles
• Elastic bands (2cm and 7mm wide)
• Red yarn or pom-poms
• Red 4mm ribbon
• Dark red, beige, and light orange nylon ropes
• Sewing machine and supplies (thread, scissors, pins, etc.)
• White gloves
• Red balloons

Creating the Shirt

1. Start by creating a pattern for the shirt using patterning paper or an old t-shirt as a guide.

2. Cut the main body of the shirt from the white/off-white fabric. The shirt should be loose-fitting and extend past the hips.

3. Create the signature Pennywise collar:
   1. Cut a large semicircle of the cream-colored fabric.
   2. Pleat or gather the straight edge to create ruffles.
   3. Attach this to the neckline of the shirt.

4. For the sleeves:
   1. Cut two large rectangles for puffed sleeves.
   2. Gather the top and bottom edges.
   3. Attach to the shirt body at the shoulders.
   4. Create cuffs using the cream-colored fabric and attach to the bottom of the sleeves.

5. Add three red pom-poms down the center front of the shirt. You can make these from red yarn or use store-bought pom-poms.

6. Create a sash or belt effect around the waist using the nylon ropes. Sew these in place or use safety pins for easy removal.

Making the Pants/Bloomers

1. Use a pair of loose-fitting pants or shorts as a pattern guide.

2. Cut the white/off-white fabric to create baggy pants or bloomers.

3. Add elastic to the waist and knee areas for the signature puffy look.

4. Create ruffled cuffs using the cream-colored fabric and attach to the bottom of the pants legs.

The Finishing Touches

1. Add red ribbons or yarn as accents on the costume, particularly at the waist, wrists, and ankles.

2. Consider adding some distressing or subtle staining to the costume for a more weathered, creepy look.

Makeup and Hair

Makeup Materials:

• White face paint or foundation
• Red face paint or lipstick
• Black face paint or eyeliner
• Makeup sponges and brushes
• Setting powder
• Optional: Latex for creating texture

Makeup Application:

1. Start with a clean, moisturized face.

2. Apply a thin layer of white face paint all over the face, neck, and any exposed skin. Use a sponge for even application.

3. Set the white base with translucent powder to prevent smudging.

4. Draw Pennywise's signature red lines extending from the corners of the mouth up to the cheekbones. Use a thin brush for precision.

5. Create the illusion of a wider smile by extending the red lines past your natural lip line.

6. Apply black face paint or eyeliner around the eyes, creating an exaggerated, menacing shape. Extend the lines down onto the cheeks for added drama.

7. Use black face paint to create Pennywise's distinctive eyebrows. They should be high-arched and slightly asymmetrical.

8. For added texture, consider using latex to create cracks or wrinkles in the makeup, especially around the forehead and mouth areas.

9. Set all the makeup with more translucent powder to ensure longevity.

Hair:

1. Purchase a Pennywise wig or create your own:
   1. Start with a bald cap for a smooth base.
   2. Attach orange or reddish-orange hair to the cap, focusing on creating volume at the sides.
   3. Style the hair into Pennywise's signature messy, receding hairline look.

2. If using your own hair, use temporary color spray and lots of styling product to achieve a similar effect.

Accessories

Shoes:

1. Find a pair of oversized clown shoes or modify existing shoes:
   1. Use white canvas shoes or ballet flats as a base.
   2. Cover with white vinyl fabric.
   3. Add red pom-poms to the toes.
   4. Paint or add fabric to create a two-tone effect (white and red or white and blue).

Gloves:

1. Use plain white gloves or create ruffled cuffs to attach to them for a more elaborate look.

The Iconic Red Balloon:

1. Inflate a large red balloon.
2. Attach a long white string or ribbon.
3. Consider using a balloon stick for easier handling.

Putting It All Together

1. Start by applying your makeup. This can be time-consuming, so allow plenty of time before you need to be in costume.

2. Once the makeup is set, carefully put on the wig or style your hair.

3. Put on the shirt, pants, and any undergarments needed for the desired silhouette.

4. Add the gloves and shoes.

5. Make any final adjustments to the costume, ensuring all elements are secure and comfortable.

6. Grab your red balloon, and you're ready to terrify!

Tips for Wearing Your Pennywise Costume

1. Practice your Pennywise mannerisms and voice. Watch clips from the movies for inspiration.

2. Be mindful of your surroundings. The costume can be quite bulky, especially with the ruffled collar.

3. Bring touch-up makeup with you, especially the white base and red lipstick.

4. If wearing contact lenses for the yellow or blue Pennywise eyes, ensure you've practiced putting them in and can wear them comfortably for extended periods.

5. Stay hydrated, especially if wearing a lot of makeup or in a warm environment.

Safety Considerations

1. Ensure all parts of the costume allow for easy movement and don't obstruct your vision.

2. If wearing the costume at night, consider adding some reflective elements for safety.

3. Be cautious with the makeup, especially around the eyes. Do a patch test first to check for any allergic reactions.

4. If using latex or spirit gum for makeup effects, make sure you have appropriate removers on hand.

Variations on the Pennywise Costume

1990s Tim Curry Pennywise:

• Use a more vibrant, primary-colored palette for the costume.
• Create a balder head with tufts of orange hair on the sides.
• Apply rounder, more traditional clown makeup.

Female or "Glam" Pennywise:

• Consider a dress or skirt version of the costume.
• Use more fitted silhouettes.
• Add glitter or metallic elements to the makeup and costume for a glamorous twist.

Pennywise Inspired Fashion:

• Create a more subtle nod to the character with a white dress or suit with red accents.
• Use makeup to hint at the character without full face paint.
• Incorporate balloon motifs into accessories or jewelry.

Conclusion