Are you looking for a creative, budget-friendly costume that will make a splash at your next event? Dive into the world of DIY with this whimsical homemade cardboard shark costume that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
Whether it’s Halloween, World Book Day, amateur theatre, or just a playful day at home, this cardboard DIY shark costume costume is bound to impress. We have two different versions to make, so there’s something for everyone.
This cardboard shark costume is not only simple to create but also requires minimal materials, most of which you might already have at home.
The beauty of this DIY project is its versatility. You can customize the size for different ages, add more details, or even modify the colors and shapes to create different types of fish or sea creatures!
Perfect for many occasions, from trick-or-treating on Halloween to representing a beloved character on World Book Day, the possibilities are endless.
The simple charm of a homemade costume often stands out more than a store-bought one. Plus, crafting it can be a fun activity for the whole family, instilling a sense of pride in wearing something they made themselves.
Create a DIY shark costume step by step
This is a playful and creative DIY costume made primarily from cardboard. Designed to resemble a shark, the costume consists of two large cardboard cut-outs.
Simple to make and customizable, it's a budget-friendly option perfect for occasions like Halloween, World Book Day, or amateur theatre. Whether for kids or adults, it's a fun and imaginative way to dive into the world of DIY crafting.
Materials
- Large cardboard sheets (2 should suffice)
- Acrylic paint (gray or silver, white, and black)
- Paint brushes
- White lid and black sharpie
- Glue Gun
- Scissors and utility knife
- Pencil or marker
- A picture of a shark for reference
Tools
- Scissors and Utility knife
Instructions
- Gather all your materials ready to start with your DIY shark costume
- Draw the Outline: Start by laying out your cardboard and drawing a shark shape on it using your pencil or marker. Remember to add in details like fins and the tail. Use a shark picture for reference
- Cut the Shark Out: Using your scissors or utility knife, carefully cut out the shark shape. You will need two of these - one for each arm.
- Paint Your Shark: Now, bring your shark to life! Paint both cardboard pieces with gray or silver as the primary color. Add in the eyes, gills, and sharp white teeth to give it a more realistic look.
- Create the eyes: Take two white plastic lids like the ones from an empty soda bottle. Draw a black dot in the middle of each one, to make an eye. Attach to the sharks using a glue gun.
- Dry and Punch Holes: Once your paint is dry, use your utility knife to cut a flap where you will fit the arms. You will need one of these on each cardboard shark
- Wear Your Costume: Position the cardboard pieces on the arms of the person wearing the costume, put one arm through each of the flaps / holes that have been cut and carry the shark costume pieces on each arm.
This shark costume can be easily taken on and off, and paired with regular clothes so may work for children who don’t like to wear complicated costumes for sensory reasons.
If you have a child who is happy to wear something a little bit bulkier then check out our 2nd cardboard shark costume which is worn over the head…
DIY Cardboard Box Shark Head Costume
Transform a simple cardboard box into a playful shark head costume for toddlers.
With a large opening for the face mimicking a shark's mouth, adorned with cut-out paper teeth, this costume brings the deep-sea creature to life.
Complete with dark, watchful eyes and cardboard fins, this DIY ensemble is a fun, eco-friendly choice for imaginative play or themed events. Easy to create and delightful in its simplicity, it's a bite-sized project with big charm!
Materials
- Large cardboard box (big enough to fit around a toddler's head)
- White paper or cardstock (for teeth)
- Black paper or cardstock (for eyes)
- Scissors or craft knife
- Glue or tape
Instructions
- Preparation of Box: Start with a large cardboard box that's roughly the size of the toddler's head. Make sure it's empty and clean.
- Cutting the Mouth: On one side of the box, draw a large semicircle or oval shape, this will be the opening for the face. Carefully cut out this section using a craft knife. This will act as the shark's mouth and the viewing window for the child.
- Creating Teeth: Cut out triangular shapes from the white paper or cardstock to resemble sharp shark teeth. Attach these teeth around the cut-out mouth using glue or tape, ensuring they point inwards.
- Shark Eyes: Cut out two large circles from the black paper or cardstock for the eyes. Glue or tape them above the mouth on either side of the box.
- Fins: Using the leftover cardboard, cut out two dorsal fin shapes and a tail fin. Attach one dorsal fin on the top of the box and the other two (dorsal and tail) on the sides or back, using glue or tape.
- Wearing the Costume: Once all pieces are securely attached and any glue has dried, the child can wear the box over their head, looking out through the shark's mouth.
In a world overflowing with off-the-shelf solutions, there’s something truly special about a homemade touch.
So, the next time you’re in search of a unique costume idea, remember that with a little creativity, some cardboard, and a few other supplies, you can create something memorable!
Dive deep into the world of DIY and let your imagination swim wild. 🦈
Shark Shapes to use for Inspiration
Check our free printable shark coloring pages for inspiration on the shapes to use for your shark outline.
More Shark Fun
Dive deep into the captivating world of sharks with a collection of shark themed activities and shark crafts that are sure to enthrall enthusiasts of all ages.
There’s an ocean of knowledge and entertainment waiting for you. So, get ready to embark on a thrilling journey beneath the waves!
- Shark Craft For Kids With Free Printable Template
- 38 Jawsome Shark Crafts for Kids
- 18 Free Printable Shark Coloring Pages For Kids
More DIY Costumes
Unleash your creativity with DIY costume ideas that are both imaginative and easy on the wallet. Crafting your own costume not only allows for personal customization but also adds a unique touch that stands out in any crowd.
With a pinch of innovation and a sprinkle of DIY spirit, you’re set to dazzle at any event.
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Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.
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