I am usually pretty or princess-like characters for Halloween. But, last year I decided to switch it up and be something scary. So I made a DIY Female Pennywise or IT costume. With the sequel coming out this September it was perfect timing to reminisce. For the costume I upcycled some items (mainly a Value Village shirt) to make the costume. So I feel less guilty so making an outfit I’ll wear once.
Pennywise Costume Supplies
- Thrifted shirt – it was large and pirate-like – so it was perfect to cut up to be a scary clown.
- Pillow Cases (for skirt)
- Lace (for collar)
- Elastic – for skirt and sleeves
- Red pom poms
- Thread and sewing machine
- Glue for pom poms
Pennywise Shirt
For the DIY female Pennywise costume I decided to make a dress, which is actually made with a shirt and skirt. Cut the arms and neck off of the shirt. This shirt was perfect because it had lace on it already and was oversized (it was a large I’m a small). The bigger size will make creating puffy sleeves easier, the extra fabric was very helpful so making the collar.
Cut the back off in a straight line under the armpits, then down the middle of where the back was and cut off excess fabric. Cut fabric into three strips and braid the fabric on either shoulder to create a strap.
For the sleeves, cut the top so there is a straight line and fold over to create a cuff for an elastic to feed through. The straps will create a razorback. Sew this and feed elastic through (a bit smaller than your arm width) to create a puff. Try shirt on and pin, then sew the sides so that the shirt fits you. Sew sleeves to shirt.
Puffy Clown Skirt
Cut pillowcase along the sides to create a LONG rectangle – my rectangle was over 66 inches. Sew ends together to make a tube and top down an inch at the waist to feed an elastic through. Make the elastic slightly smaller than your waist so it will fit snugly. Feed the elastic through and sew. At the bottom of the skirt bunch it up to balloon the hem.
DIY Pennywise Collar
For the collar layer three or more pieces of lace/fabric. I used excess fabric from the shirt/pillowcase in addition to the lace. Gather the lace and sew it like a necklace. Fashion with a ribbon.
Costume Accessories
Once the shirt and skirt were complete I made a corresponding belt with extra fabric. I glued three red pom-poms down the centre. I also carried a balloon purse and red balloons to complete the look. Get a partner to be Georgie to complete your look – he is such an easy costume.
For more costume inspiration see my Halloween DIY section of the blog.
