Easy DIY Pilgrim Costume: A Step-by-Step Guide

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and that means school plays, historical reenactments, and maybe even a themed Thanksgiving dinner! If your child (or you!) needs a pilgrim costume, don’t rush out to buy a generic, often overpriced one. Making your own pilgrim costume is easier (and often cheaper!) than you might think. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a classic pilgrim outfit, using simple materials and easy-to-follow steps. We’ll cover the basic components for both men’s and women’s pilgrim attire, offering variations and tips for making it your own. Let’s dive in!

Understanding the Authentic Pilgrim Look

Before we get into the ‘how-to,’ it’s important to understand what a real pilgrim costume should look like. While popular depictions sometimes exaggerate certain aspects, the historical accuracy adds a great deal to the overall presentation. Key elements of pilgrim clothing included:

* **Simplicity:** Pilgrims valued practicality and modesty. Their clothing was simple, functional, and often made from durable materials.
* **Dark Colors:** Common colors were black, brown, grey, and dark blue. These were easier to obtain with natural dyes available at the time. White was often used for collars and cuffs.
* **Wool and Linen:** These were the primary fabrics used due to their availability and durability.
* **Avoidance of Ornamentation:** Pilgrims generally avoided excessive decorations, lace, or frills.

Knowing these foundational principles will help you create a costume that looks authentic and respectful of history.

Materials You’ll Need

Gathering your materials beforehand will streamline the crafting process. Here’s a basic list of what you’ll need. Remember that you can customize this list based on your budget and the level of detail you want to achieve:

**For Both Men’s and Women’s Costumes:**

* **Dark Fabric:** Several yards of dark-colored fabric (black, brown, dark grey, or navy blue). Felt, broadcloth, or linen-look fabric are good choices. Avoid shiny or synthetic fabrics for a more authentic look.
* **White Fabric:** For collars, cuffs, and aprons (for women). Cotton or muslin works well.
* **Scissors:** For cutting fabric.
* **Measuring Tape:** For accurate measurements.
* **Sewing Machine (Optional):** While hand-sewing is perfectly acceptable, a sewing machine will significantly speed up the process.
* **Thread:** Matching thread for your dark and white fabrics.
* **Pins:** For holding fabric pieces together before sewing.
* **Paper and Pencil:** For creating patterns.
* **Elastic (Optional):** For waistbands on skirts or trousers.

**Specifically for Women’s Costume:**

* **White Apron:** You can either sew one or purchase a plain white apron.
* **White Bonnet or Cap:** To cover the hair. We’ll provide instructions for making a simple bonnet.
* **Black Shoes or Boots:** Simple, closed-toe footwear.

**Specifically for Men’s Costume:**

* **Black Belt:** A simple leather or faux-leather belt.
* **Black Buckles (Optional):** Large buckles to attach to the belt and shoes for a more traditional look.
* **Black Hat:** A wide-brimmed black hat. You can purchase one or craft your own.
* **White Stockings (Optional):** To wear with breeches.
* **Black Shoes or Boots:** Simple, closed-toe footwear.

Creating the Women’s Pilgrim Costume

Let’s start with the women’s costume. This typically consists of a long dress, an apron, a bonnet, and simple shoes.

1. The Pilgrim Dress

* **Pattern:** You can use a pre-made dress pattern or create your own simple A-line dress pattern. To create your own, measure the wearer’s chest, waist, and desired dress length. Draw a basic A-line shape on paper, adding seam allowances (usually ½ inch). The dress should be loose-fitting.
* **Cutting the Fabric:** Fold your dark fabric in half, place the pattern on the folded edge, and cut out the dress shape. You’ll need two pieces (front and back). Remember to add extra length if you want a longer hem.
* **Sewing the Dress:**
* Pin the front and back pieces together at the shoulders and sides, right sides facing each other.
* Sew along the pinned edges, leaving seam allowances.
* Try on the dress to check the fit. Adjust as needed.
* Hem the bottom of the dress.
* Create a simple round or square neckline. You can finish the neckline with a bias tape or simply fold the fabric inward and stitch it down.
* Sew long sleeves (either fitted or slightly puffed at the shoulder) to the armholes.
* **Variations:**
* For a more authentic look, consider adding a simple bodice. This can be a separate piece that is laced or buttoned up the front.
* You can also add a small slit at the front of the dress for easier movement.

2. The White Apron

* **Cutting the Fabric:** Cut a large rectangle of white fabric. The width should cover the front of the dress, and the length should reach from the chest to just above the hem of the dress.
* **Hemming:** Hem all four sides of the rectangle.
* **Waistband:** Cut a long strip of white fabric (about 4 inches wide and long enough to wrap around the waist plus extra for tying). Fold it in half lengthwise and press. Open it up and fold the long edges to the center crease. Fold in half again and press. Topstitch along all edges to secure the waistband.
* **Attaching the Waistband:** Gather the top edge of the apron rectangle and pin it to the waistband, centering it. Sew the apron to the waistband.
* **Ties:** If your waistband is long enough, you can use the ends of the waistband as ties. Otherwise, create two separate ties from white fabric and sew them to the ends of the waistband.
* **Variations:**
* Add simple lace trim to the bottom of the apron for a more decorative look (though historically, it wouldn’t be entirely accurate).
* You can also pleat the apron before attaching it to the waistband for a fuller look.

3. The White Bonnet

* **Pattern:** This is a simplified bonnet. You can find more complex patterns online if you prefer.
* **Cutting the Fabric:** Cut two semi-circle shapes from white fabric. The size will depend on the wearer’s head size. A diameter of about 18-20 inches should be sufficient for most adults. You’ll also need a rectangular strip of white fabric for the brim (about 4 inches wide and long enough to go around the front of the face).
* **Sewing the Bonnet:**
* Pin the two semi-circle pieces together along the curved edge, right sides facing each other.
* Sew along the pinned edge, leaving a seam allowance.
* Turn the bonnet right side out.
* Fold the rectangular strip in half lengthwise and press. Open it up and fold the long edges to the center crease. Fold in half again and press. Topstitch along all edges to secure the brim.
* Gather the front edge of the bonnet and pin it to the brim, centering it. Sew the bonnet to the brim.
* Add ties to the sides of the bonnet. You can use ribbon, twill tape, or strips of white fabric.
* **Variations:**
* For a more structured bonnet, use interfacing in the brim.
* You can also add a ruffle around the front of the bonnet for a more decorative touch.

4. Finishing Touches

* Wear the dress, apron, and bonnet together.
* Pair the costume with simple black shoes or boots.
* Consider wearing white stockings for added authenticity (though this is optional).

Creating the Men’s Pilgrim Costume

The men’s pilgrim costume typically consists of breeches, a shirt, a vest (optional), and a hat.

1. The Breeches

* **Pattern:** Use a pre-made breeches pattern or adapt a pants pattern. Breeches are knee-length pants that are gathered at the knee.
* **Cutting the Fabric:** Cut out the breeches pieces from your dark fabric.
* **Sewing the Breeches:**
* Sew the breeches according to the pattern instructions.
* Add elastic or drawstrings at the knee to gather the fabric.
* **Variations:**
* For a simpler version, you can adapt a pair of existing pants by cutting them off at the knee and adding elastic or drawstrings.

2. The Shirt

* **Pattern:** Use a pre-made shirt pattern or create a simple long-sleeved shirt pattern. The shirt should be loose-fitting and made from white fabric. A simple tunic style shirt works great.
* **Cutting the Fabric:** Cut out the shirt pieces from your white fabric.
* **Sewing the Shirt:**
* Sew the shirt according to the pattern instructions.
* Leave the collar open or add a small stand-up collar.
* **Variations:**
* You can add ruffles to the cuffs and collar for a more decorative look (though not strictly historically accurate).

3. The Vest (Optional)

* **Pattern:** Use a pre-made vest pattern or create a simple vest pattern. The vest should be made from dark fabric and should fit snugly over the shirt.
* **Cutting the Fabric:** Cut out the vest pieces from your dark fabric.
* **Sewing the Vest:**
* Sew the vest according to the pattern instructions.
* You can add buttons or lacing to the front of the vest.
* **Variations:**
* For a simpler version, you can skip the vest altogether.

4. The Hat

* **Purchasing a Hat:** The easiest option is to purchase a wide-brimmed black hat from a costume store or online retailer.
* **Making a Hat:**
* **Materials:** Black felt or stiff fabric, cardboard, scissors, glue, and ribbon or fabric for the brim.
* **Crown:** Cut a circle of cardboard for the top of the hat. Cut a rectangular strip of cardboard for the sides of the crown. Glue the strip to the edge of the circle to form a cylinder.
* **Brim:** Cut a wide circle of felt or fabric for the brim. Cut a smaller circle out of the center of the brim. Slide the brim over the crown and glue it in place.
* **Finishing:** Cover the entire hat with black felt or fabric, gluing it in place. Add a ribbon or fabric trim around the base of the crown.

5. Finishing Touches

* Wear the breeches, shirt, and vest (if using).
* Add the hat.
* Cinch the breeches at the waist with a black belt.
* Consider adding large black buckles to the belt and shoes for a more authentic look.
* Pair the costume with simple black shoes or boots.
* Optional: white stockings

Adding Authentic Details

To truly elevate your pilgrim costume, consider adding these authentic details:

* **Neck Ruff:** A simple white neck ruff can be made by gathering a long strip of white fabric and securing it around the neck.
* **Pockets:** Add simple pockets to the dress or breeches for practicality.
* **Patches:** Add patches to the clothing to indicate wear and tear. This can be done with scraps of fabric and simple stitching.
* **Natural Makeup:** Keep makeup minimal and natural. Avoid bright colors or heavy applications.

Tips for Success

* **Use Natural Fabrics:** Whenever possible, use natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool for a more authentic look.
* **Keep it Simple:** Pilgrim clothing was simple and functional. Avoid excessive decorations or embellishments.
* **Pay Attention to Detail:** Even small details, like the type of buttons or the way the clothing is stitched, can make a big difference in the overall look.
* **Do Your Research:** Learn more about pilgrim clothing and culture to ensure your costume is accurate and respectful.
* **Have Fun!:** Making your own pilgrim costume should be an enjoyable experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative.

Adapting the Costume for Different Ages

This guide provides a foundation for creating pilgrim costumes for all ages. Here are some tips for adapting the costume for children and adults:

* **Children:** For children, focus on comfort and ease of movement. Use soft, breathable fabrics and avoid restrictive clothing. Simplify the patterns and construction techniques.
* **Adults:** For adults, you can focus on more accurate details and construction techniques. Use higher-quality fabrics and pay attention to the fit and finish of the costume.

Why DIY is Better

While purchasing a pre-made costume might seem easier, making your own offers several advantages:

* **Cost Savings:** DIY costumes are often much cheaper than store-bought ones.
* **Customization:** You can customize the costume to fit your specific needs and preferences.
* **Quality:** You have control over the quality of the materials and construction.
* **Uniqueness:** Your costume will be unique and stand out from the crowd.
* **Educational Value:** Making a costume can be a fun and educational experience, especially for children.

Conclusion

Creating your own pilgrim costume is a rewarding experience that allows you to connect with history and express your creativity. By following these simple steps and using readily available materials, you can create a costume that is both authentic and unique. So, gather your supplies, unleash your inner artisan, and get ready to celebrate Thanksgiving in style! This detailed guide provides you with everything you need to create a fantastic pilgrim costume, whether for a school play, a Thanksgiving celebration, or just for fun. Embrace the spirit of the pilgrims and enjoy the process of bringing history to life through your own handmade creation!