How to Create a Perfect Nun Costume: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a nun costume is a popular choice for Halloween, costume parties, theatrical productions, or even just for fun. While a commercially-made costume might seem like the easiest option, crafting your own allows for a personalized touch, better fit, and often a more authentic look. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of making your own nun costume, from gathering materials to assembling the final pieces. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, you’ll find this guide helpful and easy to follow.

Understanding the Components of a Nun Costume

Before we dive into the making process, let’s break down the essential parts of a traditional nun’s habit. This will help you understand what pieces you need and how they fit together:

• The Tunic (Habit): This is the primary garment, typically a long, loose-fitting dress or robe, often reaching to the ankles. Traditionally, it’s black, but some orders wear habits in other colors like gray, white, or brown.
• The Scapular: A long, rectangular piece of cloth that hangs over the tunic, both in the front and back. It’s often the same color as the tunic.
• The Veil (Wimple and Guimpe): This is the head covering. It consists of a veil that drapes over the head, often accompanied by a wimple (a cloth covering the neck and sides of the face) and a guimpe (a cloth band across the forehead). The style and color of the veil can vary depending on the religious order.
• The Belt or Cincture: A simple cord or belt worn around the waist. Usually black or white.
• Rosary (Optional): A string of beads used for prayer. While not an essential part of the costume, it’s a common accessory.
• Cross or Crucifix (Optional): A small cross or crucifix may be worn as a necklace or pinned to the tunic.

Gathering Your Materials

Before you begin, gather all your necessary supplies. This will streamline the process and prevent any mid-project scrambling. Here’s a list of what you’ll likely need:

• Fabric:
  • Black fabric for the tunic and scapular (approximately 3-5 yards depending on your size and desired length). A medium-weight fabric like broadcloth, cotton twill, or polyester blend is ideal. For a more traditional look, choose a matte fabric rather than a shiny one.
  • White or black fabric for the veil, wimple, and guimpe (approximately 1-2 yards, ideally a lighter weight fabric like cotton or linen). You might opt for a semi-transparent fabric for the veil.
• Sewing Supplies:
  • Sewing machine (optional, you can hand sew, but it will be more time-consuming)
  • Thread matching your fabric colors
  • Scissors
  • Measuring tape
  • Pins
  • Chalk or fabric marker
  • Seam ripper (just in case!)
  • Needles
• Other Materials:
  • Cord or rope for the belt (approximately 1.5 – 2 yards)
  • Headband (optional, to secure the veil)
  • Safety pins
  • Iron
• Optional Items:
  • Rosary beads
  • Cross or crucifix pendant
  • White collar (a small white band worn around the neck)
  • Nun shoes (simple black shoes or boots)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creating the Costume

Now, let’s get to the actual crafting. Follow these steps to create each component of your nun costume:

1. Creating the Tunic (Habit)

The tunic is the foundation of your nun costume. Here’s how to make it:

1. Take Measurements:
   • Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape measure horizontal.
   • Waist: Measure around your natural waistline (the narrowest part of your torso).
   • Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
   • Shoulder to Ankle Length: Measure from the top of your shoulder down to your ankle (or desired length).
   • Sleeve Length: Measure from the shoulder to your wrist.
   • Shoulder Width: Measure across your back from one shoulder to the other.
2. Cut the Fabric:
   • Main Body: Fold your black fabric in half lengthwise. Measure out half your chest measurement plus 8-10 inches for ease (for a loose fit) from the folded edge. Measure down from the top to your shoulder-to-ankle length and cut a rectangle shape using the side and shoulder-to-ankle length as measurement. Ensure the folded edge is on the side.
   • Sleeves: Cut two rectangles for your sleeves. Make them as long as your desired sleeve length and as wide as you like (typically the width is approximately half of the chest measurement).
3. Sew the Tunic:
   • Shoulder Seams: With right sides together, pin and sew the shoulder seams. Leave the neck area open.
   • Sleeve Seams: With right sides together, pin and sew the sleeves into the armholes, using the armhole measurement from your measurements.
   • Side Seams: With right sides together, pin and sew the side seams of the tunic, including the bottom seam of the sleeves.
   • Hemming: Hem the bottom of the tunic and sleeves by folding the fabric under by 1/2 inch then again by another 1/2 inch and sewing.
4. Try It On: Put on the tunic to see how it fits. You may want to adjust the side seams for a better fit. If needed, use a pin to make desired adjustments.

2. Creating the Scapular

The scapular is a simple piece of fabric that adds a distinct visual element to the habit:

1. Cut the Fabric: Measure the fabric the same width as the shoulder width of the tunic. Measure from the back of the neck to the bottom of the tunic or slightly shorter for the desired length. Cut the fabric in a rectangle shape according to your measurements. You will cut two of these rectangular pieces.
2. Sew the Scapular:
   • With right sides together, pin the two scapular pieces together, making sure to leave 10-12 inches open on one side of the seam.
   • Sew the sides together leaving one side open.
   • Flip the fabric through the opening so that the right side is now facing out.
   • Carefully tuck the raw edges inside the opening and sew it shut, creating a clean border.
3. Attach the Scapular: Place the scapular over the tunic, with the top of the scapular aligned with the shoulder seams. The top of each rectangular piece will rest over your shoulders. You can either pin it in place or tack it with a few stitches so it doesn’t shift during wear. It should hang down the front and back of the tunic.

3. Creating the Veil (Wimple and Guimpe)

The veil, with its wimple and guimpe, is the most recognizable part of the nun costume. These pieces can be a little more complex, but they are achievable with patience and attention to detail.

Creating the Guimpe:

1. Measure and Cut Fabric: Measure from your hairline on one side of your forehead to the other. Add a few inches to this measurement. Then, decide how wide you would like the guimpe to be, usually 2-3 inches. Cut the fabric according to this measurements.
2. Hemming: Fold over the edges of the guimpe by 1/2 inch, and then again by another 1/2 inch. Hem all four sides by sewing the fabric to create clean borders.

Creating the Wimple:

1. Measure and Cut Fabric: The wimple needs to cover your neck, sides of your face, and a portion of your forehead. Measure from the top of your forehead, across your cheek, under your chin, up the other cheek, and back to the top of your forehead. Add 4-6 inches to this measurement for overlap and ease. Measure the width of the wimple approximately 12-15 inches for the main part and then the chin will be about 6-8 inches wide. Cut out a long rectangle or a rounded rectangular shape using your measurements.
2. Hemming: Fold over the edges by 1/2 inch, and then again by another 1/2 inch. Hem the edges by sewing to create a clean border.

Creating the Veil:

1. Cut Fabric: Cut a large rectangular piece of fabric for the veil. The size will depend on your desired look, but a large piece that can cover your head and drape down your back is typical. Usually, this is about 30-40 inches wide and 50-60 inches long.
2. Hemming: Fold over the edges by 1/2 inch, and then again by another 1/2 inch. Hem all edges to create clean borders. You can add decorative border here as well if you like.

Assembling the Head Covering:

1. Putting on the Guimpe: Place the guimpe band across your forehead, positioning it to cover your hairline. You can secure it with pins or safety pins.
2. Putting on the Wimple: Place the wimple over your head, making sure it covers your neck and sides of your face. Secure the front of the wimple to the guimpe using pins or safety pins.
3. Putting on the Veil: Drape the veil over your head, arranging it so that it covers the top of your head and the wimple. The back part of the veil should drape down your back. You can use a headband underneath the veil, to help it stay in place or secure it with pins if needed.

4. Adding the Belt (Cincture)

The cincture is a simple but important finishing touch:

1. Measure the Cord: Measure the cord or rope around your waist, adding a bit of extra length for tying.
2. Tie the Cincture: Tie the cord or rope around your waist over the tunic. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight. You can let it hang freely or tie it in a simple knot.

5. Optional Accessories

Enhance your costume with these optional elements:

• Rosary: Drape a rosary around your neck or let it hang from your belt.
• Cross or Crucifix: Wear a cross or crucifix pendant on a necklace or pin it to the tunic.
• White Collar: If desired, add a small white band around your neck to mimic a clerical collar.
• Nun Shoes: Complete the look with simple black shoes or boots.

Tips for Success

• Fabric Choice Matters: Opt for a non-stretchy, matte fabric for the tunic and scapular for a more authentic look. Light-weight cotton or linen works well for the veil and wimple.
• Fit is Key: Ensure that your tunic and wimple are not too tight. A loose fit is more comfortable and traditional.
• Take Your Time: Sewing can be time-consuming. Don’t rush the process. Take breaks when needed and focus on each step.
• Double-Check Measurements: Before cutting any fabric, double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.
• Ironing: Iron your fabric pieces after cutting and before sewing. This will make the process easier and improve the final look.
• Use a Pattern (Optional): If you are unsure about making your own pattern for the tunic, you can use a basic robe pattern as a reference or modify it for the desired look. There are also free patterns you can find online if you do a search.
• Practice Makes Perfect: If you are new to sewing, try practicing with scraps of fabric before using your primary fabric. This will help build your confidence.
• Research: If you are aiming for a more specific look, research different types of nun habits. There is a variety of styles depending on the religious order, and understanding this can help you achieve the precise style you are aiming for.
• Safety First: Be careful when using scissors, needles, and a sewing machine. Always make sure your working area is clear and well lit.
• Personalize: Feel free to add your own personal touch. You could add decorative elements or choose a slightly different veil style to create a unique look.

Caring for Your Costume

Once you’ve completed your costume, proper care will ensure its longevity:

• Storage: Store your costume in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Using a garment bag will keep it clean and protected.
• Washing: Depending on the fabric you used, you may be able to machine wash your tunic on a gentle cycle. Be sure to follow the fabric care instructions for your chosen material. Hand washing is also a good option, especially for delicate fabrics or if you are concerned about the embellishments. The veil, wimple, and guimpe may be more suited to hand washing, depending on the delicacy of the fabric.
• Ironing: Iron your costume on a low setting to remove any wrinkles. Avoid high heat settings, which may damage synthetic fabrics.

Conclusion

Making your own nun costume can be a rewarding and fun project. By following these detailed instructions and taking your time, you can create a unique and authentic look for your next costume event. Remember to personalize your costume and enjoy the process! Whether you’re seeking a traditional look or a more contemporary take, crafting your own nun habit is a great way to express your creativity and attention to detail. This guide will help you create a memorable and impressive costume that you can wear with pride.