How to make animal ears for cosplay?

Materials and Tools

• Cardboard (e.g., from a cereal box)
• Faux fur (longer fur works best)
• Trimmer/shaver
• 20 gauge wire
• A new razor blade
• Thread & needle
• Pins
• Glue gun & sticks
• Hair clips or a headband for attaching
• Pink felt for the inside of the ears
• Ear pattern (templates can be found online or created by hand)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Create a Template

1. Design the Shape: Draw the shape of the animal ears you want to create on a piece of paper. Common shapes include cat, fox, wolf, or dog ears.
2. Cut the Template: Once you're satisfied with the design, cut out the template. This will be used to trace the shape onto other materials.

Step 2: Cut Out Cardboard Ear Bases

1. Trace the Template: Place the template on a piece of cardboard and trace around it. You will need two pieces for each ear.
2. Cut the Cardboard: Carefully cut out the shapes using scissors or a craft knife.

Step 3: Prepare the Faux Fur

1. Choose the Fur: Select faux fur that matches the color and texture of the animal ears you want to create. Longer fur tends to look more realistic.
2. Cut the Fur: Lay the fur cloth side up with the fur pointing away from you. Place one of the cardboard ears on the cloth and trace around it, keeping a 1/4 inch gap around all sides of the cardboard. Repeat for the second ear.
3. Cut Out the Pieces: Use a new razor blade to cut out the fur pieces, following the lines carefully to avoid cutting the fur fibers.

Step 4: Assemble the Ears

1. Attach the Fur to the Cardboard: Use a hot glue gun to attach the faux fur pieces to the cardboard bases. Ensure that the fur points upwards towards the tips of the ears.
2. Add the Inner Ear: Cut out pieces of pink felt to fit the inner part of the ears and glue them in place.

Step 5: Add Structure with Wire

1. Cut the Wire: Cut two pieces of 20 gauge wire, each long enough to outline the edge of the ears.
2. Attach the Wire: Glue the wire along the edge of the ears, bending it to follow the shape. This will allow you to pose the ears and give them a more realistic look.

Step 6: Finish the Ears

1. Trim the Fur: Use a trimmer or shaver to trim the fur to the desired length, giving the ears a neat and polished appearance.
2. Attach to Hair Clips or Headband: Use a hot glue gun to attach the ears to hair clips or a headband, depending on your preference.

Alternative Methods

Materials

• 2mm EVA foam
• 12 gauge aluminum wire
• Hot glue gun & sticks
• Scissors
• Electric shaver

Instructions

1. Create a Pattern: Draw the shape of the ears on paper and cut it out.
2. Cut the EVA Foam: Trace the pattern onto 2mm EVA foam and cut out the shapes.
3. Add Wire: Glue 12 gauge aluminum wire along the edges of the EVA foam pieces for structure.
4. Attach Fur: Glue faux fur pieces to the EVA foam, ensuring the fur points upwards.
5. Trim and Shape: Use a trimmer to shape the fur, and attach the ears to hair clips or a headband.

Tips for a Successful DIY Project

• Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to plan and create your ears.
• Practice: If you're new to crafting, practice on scrap materials first.
• Stay Comfortable: Ensure your ears are comfortable to wear, especially for long periods.
• Have Fun: Enjoy the process and let your creativity shine!

Inspiration and Ideas

Popular Animal Ears for Cosplay

• Cat Ears: Sleek and pointed, perfect for a feline look.
• Fox Ears: Larger and more triangular, ideal for a cunning fox character.
• Wolf Ears: Tall and pointed, great for a fierce wolf costume.
• Dog Ears: Floppy or upright, depending on the breed you want to emulate.

Conclusion