Starting from Scratch V. The Costumes: capes and masks

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Here are some other ideas for costumes for a stage play about insects (in this case for an adaptation of the children's song "Ugly Bug Ball")... I would suggest basic costumes - leggings and a long-sleeved top in black, brown or green (depending on the bug) - with all creative energy poured into a couple of dramatic, colourful additional elements (like wings, antennas, extra legs or whatever feature is characteristc of any given bug ). These elements could be worn as hats (as discussed in my last post) or as masks, tunics or masks. Old tights can be stuffed and sewn to the back of the basic costume as extra (spider, grasshopper or centipede legs). Use wire to make flamboyant antennas. Use simple bin bag (or cloth) tunics with spots, stripes and patterns glued on. The possibilities are endless!

Some inspiration for moth/butterfly capes (which could be easily adapted to ladybirds, dragonflies, bees and wasps):

This theme is also perfect for masks. And masks are a simple solution:

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• for limited budgets, 
• plays where actors need to double up and make quick costume changes 
• if you're into minimalism.Make them out of foam, cardboard, papier maché, plaster of paris... Colourful, cloth hoods or simple, masquerade-style eye masks.... Scour the internet for inspiration in the unlikeliest of places (look at sculpture, children's art, nature pages) and look for a simple way to take that onto the stage. 

 A few examples:

Want to know more? Check out these resources:

• Making insect costumes
• More insect costumes
• Yet more... 
• Making beetle costumes
• Ideas for fire fly costumes
•  Animal costume ideas with some bugs
• Flower costumes (you never know!)
• Masks for kids
• More masks for kids
• Making insect masks

Got a good link? Tell me about it!

Related articles

• Halloween Made Easy: 10 Amazing Masks That Make a Costume (fabsugar.com)