DIY Cowboy and Cowgirl Costume: 25-Min Cardboard Build

Time25 minEffortEasy
⏱️ We timed it, but results may vary.
Plan this costume →No signup · 2 minutes.
Denim, cardboard hats, and bandanas for the pair that rides together. Twenty-five minutes, easy: denim shirts, jeans, and cardboard for two hats. Crease the cardboard hats with a real fold down the middle. Flat hats read as crowns.
3 of 8 things covered, counting basics we assume you have.
Tap a supply to tick what you own.
Still need:
Tip: draw sheriff stars on paper and pin one on.
Sizing: Built for teens and adults. Each partner builds their half in their own size; trim hat brims to fit.
Steps
- Cut two cowboy hats from cardboard.
- Tape at the seam.
- Tie a bandana around each neck.
- Coil the rope over one shoulder.
- Cut chaps from the paper bags.
- Tape them over the jeans.
- Safety: Round all cardboard edges, and keep the rope coiled, never looped around anyone.
- Tip your hats to everyone you greet.
- Optional pro finish: draw sheriff stars on paper and pin one on.
Start this costume in the planner
Common questions
How do you make cardboard hats look like felt?
Paint them brown and add a darker band around the crown. In evening light, painted cardboard passes.
What if it rains?
Wrap the hats in clear packing tape before the party. Taped cardboard shrugs off drizzle.
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