Dive into DIY: How to Create a Stunning Ariel Mermaid Costume
Are you ready to transform into the enchanting Ariel, the Little Mermaid? Whether for Halloween, a cosplay event, or just a fun dress-up occasion, creating your own Ariel mermaid costume is a rewarding and magical experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, from gathering materials to adding the final shimmering touches, ensuring you create a costume that’s both beautiful and comfortable.
## Part 1: Planning and Gathering Your Materials
Before diving into the actual crafting, it’s crucial to plan your costume and gather all the necessary materials. This will save you time and frustration later on.
**1. Inspiration and Research:**
* **Study Ariel’s Design:** Familiarize yourself with Ariel’s iconic look. Pay attention to the colors, textures, and overall silhouette of her costume. Consider different versions of Ariel, from the animated classic to live-action adaptations, and choose the style that resonates most with you.
* **Browse Online Resources:** Look for inspiration on Pinterest, cosplay forums, and costume blogs. See how other people have approached creating their Ariel costumes. Note their successes and challenges, and learn from their experiences.
**2. Essential Materials List:**
* **Mermaid Tail Fabric:** This is the most crucial element of the costume. Consider these options:
* **Sequined Fabric:** Provides maximum shimmer and captures the essence of a mermaid’s scales. Be mindful of the comfort factor, as sequined fabric can be itchy. Lining the inside of the tail can help mitigate this.
* **Scale-Print Fabric:** Offers a realistic scale pattern without the texture of sequins. Look for fabrics with a subtle shimmer or metallic finish.
* **Stretch Velvet or Lycra:** Provides a comfortable and form-fitting base for the tail. You can add scale details later using fabric paint or appliques.
* **Color Palette:** Aim for shades of turquoise, teal, green, and purple, reflecting the colors of the ocean.
* **Tail Fin Material:**
* **EVA Foam:** A versatile and lightweight material that can be easily shaped and painted. Use thicker EVA foam for a sturdier fin.
* **Craft Foam:** A thinner and more flexible option, suitable for smaller details and embellishments.
* **Fabric (matching or contrasting the tail):** Used to cover the EVA foam for a seamless look and added durability.
* **Top Material:**
* **Seashell Bra Cups:** The traditional choice for Ariel’s top. You can purchase plain bra cups and embellish them yourself.
* **Purple Fabric (Lycra, velvet, or knit):** If you prefer more coverage, create a simple halter top or bandeau top from purple fabric.
* **Embellishments:**
* **Beads, Pearls, and Sequins:** Add sparkle and detail to the top and tail.
* **Rhinestones:** Provide extra shine and glamour.
* **Fabric Paint:** Use to create scale patterns or highlight details.
* **Seaweed or Coral Appliques:** Add a touch of ocean-inspired flair.
* **Elastic:** For securing the tail at the waist and potentially for the top.
* **Thread:** Matching the colors of your fabrics.
* **Sewing Machine (optional):** While hand-sewing is possible, a sewing machine will make the process much faster and more efficient.
* **Scissors:** For cutting fabric and other materials.
* **Hot Glue Gun and Glue Sticks:** For attaching embellishments and securing seams.
* **Measuring Tape:** For accurate measurements.
* **Pencil or Fabric Marker:** For marking patterns on fabric.
* **Paper or Cardboard:** For creating patterns.
* **Swimsuit Bottoms (optional):** To wear under the tail for modesty and comfort.
* **Monofin (optional):** If you want to swim in your tail, a monofin will provide propulsion and a realistic mermaid swimming motion. Make sure the monofin fits securely inside the tail.
**3. Taking Measurements:**
* **Waist:** Measure around your natural waistline.
* **Hips:** Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
* **Length from Waist to Floor:** Measure from your waist to the floor, where you want the tail to end.
* **Fin Width and Height:** Determine the desired size and shape of your fin.
* **Bra Cup Size:** If using seashell bra cups, ensure you choose the correct size.
## Part 2: Constructing the Mermaid Tail
The mermaid tail is the centerpiece of the costume. Follow these steps to create a stunning and functional tail.
**1. Creating the Tail Pattern:**
* **Basic Tail Shape:** On a large piece of paper or cardboard, draw a basic tail shape. The tail should be wider at the top (waist) and gradually narrow down to the point where the fin will be attached.
* **Snug Fit:** The tail should be form-fitting but not too tight, allowing for comfortable movement. Add seam allowances (about 1/2 inch) around the edges of the pattern.
* **Fin Attachment Point:** Mark the point on the pattern where the fin will be attached. This is where the tail will flare out to accommodate the fin.
* **Consider a Monofin (if using):** If you plan to use a monofin, ensure the tail is wide enough at the bottom to accommodate it. Trace the outline of the monofin onto the pattern to ensure a proper fit.
* **Divide the Pattern (Optional):** For more complex tail designs, you can divide the pattern into multiple sections. This allows you to use different fabrics or create intricate scale patterns.
**2. Cutting the Fabric:**
* **Fold the Fabric:** Fold your chosen fabric in half, right sides together. This will allow you to cut two identical pieces of the tail simultaneously.
* **Pin the Pattern:** Pin the tail pattern to the fabric, ensuring it’s aligned with the grain of the fabric.
* **Cut the Fabric:** Carefully cut along the pattern lines, adding seam allowances. Remove the pins and pattern.
* **Repeat (if necessary):** If you’ve divided the pattern into multiple sections, repeat this process for each section.
**3. Sewing the Tail:**
* **Sew the Seams:** With right sides together, sew the side seams of the tail using a sewing machine or by hand. Use a stretch stitch (if available) to allow for movement.
* **Reinforce the Seams:** Reinforce the seams by serging or using a zigzag stitch. This will prevent the seams from tearing, especially when swimming.
* **Leave an Opening at the Bottom:** Leave the bottom of the tail open for attaching the fin.
* **Try it On:** Before proceeding, try on the tail to ensure it fits properly. Make any necessary adjustments to the seams.
**4. Creating the Waistband:**
* **Elastic Waistband:** Cut a piece of elastic that is slightly smaller than your waist measurement. Sew the ends of the elastic together to form a loop.
* **Attach the Elastic:** Turn the top edge of the tail inward by about 1 inch and iron it. Insert the elastic loop into the fold and pin it in place. Sew the folded edge down, encasing the elastic. Be careful not to sew through the elastic itself.
* **Fabric Waistband (Optional):** If you prefer a fabric waistband, cut a strip of fabric that is the same width as the top of the tail and long enough to wrap around your waist. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and sew the raw edges together to create a tube. Turn the tube right side out and attach it to the top of the tail, encasing the elastic (optional).
**5. Designing and Attaching the Fin:**
* **Fin Pattern:** Draw your desired fin shape on paper or cardboard. Experiment with different shapes and sizes until you find one that you like.
* **Cut the EVA Foam:** Trace the fin pattern onto the EVA foam and cut it out. You’ll need two identical pieces for each side of the fin. If you want a 3D fin you can use layers of EVA foam, glue them and carve them into shape.
* **Sculpting the Fin (Optional):** Use a heat gun to shape and mold the EVA foam. This will give the fin a more realistic and dynamic look. Be careful not to overheat the foam, as it can melt.
* **Covering the Fin:** Cut fabric that is slightly larger than the EVA foam fin pieces. Apply glue to the EVA foam and carefully stretch the fabric over it, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles. Trim the excess fabric around the edges.
* **Attaching the Fin to the Tail:** Insert the EVA foam fin into the opening at the bottom of the tail. Pin the fabric of the tail to the fabric covering the fin. Sew the fin to the tail using a strong stitch. Reinforce the seam to ensure the fin is securely attached.
* **Embellishing the Fin:** Add embellishments such as beads, sequins, and fabric paint to the fin to create a more detailed and visually appealing design.
**6. Adding Scale Details (Optional):**
* **Fabric Paint:** Use fabric paint to create scale patterns on the tail. You can use stencils or freehand paint the scales.
* **Sequins and Beads:** Attach sequins and beads to the tail to create a shimmering scale effect. Use a hot glue gun or sew the embellishments onto the fabric.
* **Appliques:** Cut out scale-shaped appliques from fabric and attach them to the tail using fabric glue or sewing.
## Part 3: Creating Ariel’s Top
Ariel’s top can be created in a variety of styles, from a traditional seashell bra to a more modest fabric top. Choose the option that you feel most comfortable and confident in.
**1. Seashell Bra Top:**
* **Purchase Bra Cups:** Purchase plain bra cups in your size. You can find these at most craft stores or online.
* **Paint or Decorate the Cups:** Paint the bra cups a light purple or lavender color. You can use acrylic paint or spray paint. Add glitter or shimmer for extra sparkle.
* **Attach Embellishments:** Glue beads, pearls, and rhinestones to the bra cups to create a sea-inspired design. Use a hot glue gun for best results.
* **Create Straps:** Cut two pieces of elastic or ribbon to the desired length for the straps. Attach the straps to the bra cups using glue or sewing.
* **Secure the Straps:** Reinforce the straps by sewing them to the bra cups. This will ensure they are securely attached and won’t break.
**2. Fabric Top (Halter or Bandeau):**
* **Create a Pattern:** Draw a pattern for a halter top or bandeau top on paper or cardboard. The pattern should be form-fitting and provide adequate coverage.
* **Cut the Fabric:** Cut the fabric according to the pattern, adding seam allowances.
* **Sew the Top:** Sew the seams of the top using a sewing machine or by hand. Use a stretch stitch to allow for movement.
* **Add Straps (if necessary):** If creating a halter top, add straps that tie around the neck. If creating a bandeau top, add elastic to the top and bottom edges to keep it in place.
* **Embellish the Top:** Add embellishments such as beads, sequins, and fabric paint to the top to create a sea-inspired design.
**3. Attaching the Top to the Tail (Optional):**
* **Create a Connector:** If you want to attach the top to the tail, create a connector piece from fabric or elastic. The connector should attach to the bottom of the top and the top of the tail.
* **Attach the Connector:** Sew or glue the connector to the top and tail. Ensure the connector is strong enough to hold the top in place.
## Part 4: Completing the Look with Accessories and Makeup
No Ariel costume is complete without the right accessories and makeup.
**1. Wig or Hair:**
* **Red Wig:** Ariel is known for her vibrant red hair. Purchase a high-quality red wig that is styled in loose waves or curls.
* **Style Your Own Hair:** If you have red hair, you can style it yourself. Use a curling iron to create loose waves and add hairspray to hold the style.
* **Hair Accessories:** Add hair accessories such as starfish clips, seashell barrettes, or flower crowns to complete the look.
**2. Makeup:**
* **Foundation and Concealer:** Apply foundation and concealer to create a flawless complexion.
* **Eyeshadow:** Use eyeshadow in shades of purple, blue, and green to create a shimmering, mermaid-inspired eye look.
* **Eyeliner:** Apply eyeliner to define your eyes.
* **Mascara:** Apply mascara to lengthen and volumize your lashes.
* **Blush:** Apply blush to your cheeks to create a healthy glow.
* **Lipstick:** Wear a red or pink lipstick to complete the look.
* **Glitter:** Add glitter to your face and body for extra sparkle.
**3. Accessories:**
* **Necklace:** Wear a necklace with a seashell pendant or a pearl necklace.
* **Bracelets:** Wear bracelets with beads, pearls, or charms.
* **Earrings:** Wear earrings with seashells, starfish, or pearls.
## Part 5: Tips for Comfort and Safety
While creating a beautiful costume is important, comfort and safety should always be a priority.
* **Comfortable Fit:** Ensure your costume fits comfortably and allows for freedom of movement. Avoid costumes that are too tight or restrictive.
* **Breathable Fabrics:** Choose breathable fabrics that won’t cause you to overheat.
* **Safe Materials:** Use safe and non-toxic materials when creating your costume.
* **Visibility:** If you’re wearing your costume at night, add reflective tape or lights to increase your visibility.
* **Swimming Safety:** If you plan to swim in your mermaid tail, ensure you are a strong swimmer and have adult supervision. Never swim alone in a mermaid tail.
* **Practice Walking:** Practice walking in your mermaid tail before wearing it to an event. This will help you get used to the movement and avoid tripping.
* **Stay Hydrated:** Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re wearing your costume in warm weather.
* **Take Breaks:** Take breaks from wearing your costume to rest and cool down.
## Part 6: Customization and Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic Ariel mermaid costume, you can experiment with different customization options and variations.
* **Different Fabrics:** Use different fabrics for the tail and top to create a unique look.
* **Intricate Scale Patterns:** Create more intricate scale patterns using fabric paint, sequins, or appliques.
* **Alternative Fin Designs:** Experiment with different fin shapes and sizes.
* **Different Top Styles:** Try different top styles, such as a crop top, a halter top, or a bandeau top.
* **Adding a Train:** Add a long train to the tail for a more dramatic look.
* **Sea Witch Ursula Inspired:** Create an Ursula-inspired mermaid costume with black and purple fabrics and tentacles.
* **Aquata, Andrina, Arista, Attina, Adella Costume:** Create a costume for one of Ariel’s sister using different color schemes.
* **Gendering bending:** Create a gender bend version of Ariel or King Triton.
## Part 7: Displaying and Caring for Your Costume
Once you have crafted your beautiful costume, consider how you will store or display it for years to come. Be sure to clean and protect your costume to ensure it lasts for years to come.
* **Display your costume:** Place your costume on a Mannequin in your home, this will allow you to show off the hard work you have put in to your cosplay to your family and friends.
* **Cleaning your costume:** Spot clean when possible. Hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent, and lay flat to dry for any major cleaning operations.
* **Storing your costume:** Hang your costume in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures to protect it.
Creating your own Ariel mermaid costume is a fun and rewarding project. With a little planning, creativity, and effort, you can transform yourself into the enchanting Little Mermaid and bring a touch of magic to any occasion. Dive in and let your imagination soar!