DIY Paper Doll Easy and Quick Halloween Costume

Cute, crafty, and made from cardboard — because we’re resourceful like that

Join me for the Handmade Halloween Costume Tutorial

Halloween tends to sneak up on us faster than glitter spills on a craft table. One minute it’s September and the pumpkins are still smiling… the next minute it’s “Mom, what are you going to be for Halloween?” or “Hey, are you dressing up for the party tonight?” 😳

This year, instead of scrambling, I grabbed what I had on hand — a giant piece of cardboard — and created the cutest DIY paper doll costume. It’s nostalgic. It’s hilarious. It’s surprisingly adorable. And yes… it’s SUPER easy.

Here’s exactly how I made this last minute Halloween Costume:

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✂️ Supplies You’ll Need for this Paper Doll Halloween Costume

• Large piece of cardboard (big enough to cover your torso)

• A dress you already own (to trace!)

• Pencil

• Scissors or a craft knife

• Acrylic paints (I used pretty pinks + mint green because… obviously 💁♀️✨)

• Ribbon (about 2" wide for a waist bow)

• Twine or string

• Paintbrushes

• Optional: Clear sealer if you want durability for dancing 💃

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🎨 Step-by-Step — The Quick + Cute Way

1️⃣ Trace the Dress

Lay your cardboard flat and trace around a dress you already own.
No overthinking. Just trace it like you’re back in kindergarten.

2️⃣ Add Those Classic Paper Doll Tabs

This is KEY to the look for this budget friendly Halloween Costume. 
Add tabs at the neckline and sides — just like those vintage paper dolls we played with as kids. It instantly turns your dress into a wearable childhood memory.

3️⃣ Cut It Out

Scissors… or a craft knife if you’re feeling fancy.
Do NOT cut the tabs off — we need those!

4️⃣ Draw and Cut a Big Hair Bow

Because every paper doll needs accessories.
I drew a simple oversized bow and gave it tabs on the top + bottom. Then cut it out too.

5️⃣ Paint It Pretty

Here’s where you get creative 🎨
I used acrylic paint and went with a fun pink + mint green design that basically screams cute from 50 feet away.
Add stripes, polka dots, florals — whatever feels YOU.

6️⃣ Wear It With Confidence

Now for the magic moment ✨

• Punch holes in the neckline tabs and tie twine to secure it around your neck like an apron

• Wrap a strip of ribbon around your waist like a big bow

 

 

BOOM. Instant paper doll transformation.
Try not to stun everyone with your craftiness. (Actually, do. You deserve it.)

 

 

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🧡 Why I Love This Costume

• It costs basically nothing

• It’s lightweight and surprisingly comfy

• Everyone recognizes it and smiles

• Perfect for parties, events, trick-or-treating, or your YouTube fans 😎

• You get to paint — duh

Plus, it’s a great reminder that creativity doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple piece of cardboard can become a whole vibe.

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📸 Want to Make Your Own?

I filmed a quick video showing all the steps — watch it right here on my blog or over on YouTube!

And if you recreate this… PLEASE tag me! I want to see your version of this cute little paper doll look 🥰

 

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✨ Final Thoughts

In a world full of complicated costume tutorials, here’s your permission to KEEP IT SIMPLE.
Grab a box, trace a dress, and paint something that makes you smile. Creativity is meant to be fun — and Halloween is the perfect excuse to play.

Happy crafting and happy Halloween! 🎃🖤
Now go turn yourself into the cutest cardboard paper doll ever.

 

-teresa xo

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