Project

The Greatest Capes: 7 Halloween Costumes From One Pattern

Source: Martha Stewart Kids, Fall 2003

Introduction

These capes are surefire attention-getters, with enough magic for any trick-or-treater. For where there's a cape, there's the swish and swirl of showmanship. Our one basic, easy-to-sew pattern is versatile enough to conjure up a whole parade of Halloween characters. What's more, each cape casts a powerful spell, and you won't have to look further than your closet to complete the costume.

Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf Costumes
The Prince of Rock 'n' Roll Costume
His and Her Royal Highness Costumes
Matador Costume
Glamour Girls Costumes
Magician Cape

Sizing the Cape
Use this diagram to gauge how long to make the cape. These sizes are based on the average 7-year-old; if your child is significantly taller or shorter, measure from the base of his or her neck down to the intended hem (the neckline measurement will stay the same no matter what your child's size). When buying fabric, purchase yardage equal to twice the length of the cape.

materials

For most of these capes, you will need two pieces of fabric -- the outer layer and the lining.

steps

Fold the two pieces in half, and stack. To mark the curved cutting lines, tie one end of a string to a fabric marker or chalk. For the neckline, tie a knot 2 1/2 inches away from the marker. Hold the knot at one corner of the fabric at the fold; pull string taut, and draw the small curve as though using a compass.
To mark hem, measure the appropriate distance along the string (see above chart), tie a knot, and draw curve as before. Pin layers together; cut along both marks.
Unfold fabric and stack, right sides facing; pin together. Stitch around the perimeter of the cape, using a 1/2-inch seam allowance and leaving a small gap at the bottom of the semicircle. Clip off seam allowance at the corners.
Reach in through the gap, and turn the cape right side out.
Hand-sew the gap closed.