The Flying Purple People Eater. The name conjures images of vibrant color, playful menace, and a truly unique Halloween costume. But how do you bring this whimsical creature to life? This guide dives deep into crafting the perfect Flying Purple People Eater costume, covering everything from design and materials to accessories and performance.
What is a Flying Purple People Eater?
Before we delve into the costume creation, let's establish what exactly a Flying Purple People Eater is. This iconic figure originated from a popular 1958 song by Sheb Wooley. While the lyrics are vague about its precise appearance, the common interpretation is a playful, somewhat menacing, purple creature with the ability to fly. This allows for considerable creative freedom when designing your costume!
What Materials Do I Need for a Flying Purple People Eater Costume?
The beauty of this costume is its adaptability. You can choose materials based on your skill level and desired level of detail. Here are a few options:
- Fabric: Purple felt, fleece, or even a stretchy purple fabric like lycra would all work well. Consider the texture you want – fuzzy for a cuddly look, smooth for a more sleek design.
- Pattern: You can create your own pattern, find a simple hooded robe pattern to adapt, or even use an existing jumpsuit pattern as a base.
- Stuffing: For a plush look, use polyester fiberfill. For a more structured look, consider foam or even crumpled newspaper for the base, covered with fabric.
- Accessories: Think big! Antennae (pipe cleaners, wire, or felt), googly eyes, claws (cardboard covered in fabric or felt), and wings (fabric, wire, or even repurposed umbrella frames) are all key components.
How Do I Make the Flying Purple People Eater Wings?
The wings are arguably the most challenging, yet most rewarding, part of this costume. Several options exist:
- Fabric Wings: Cut two large wing shapes from your chosen purple fabric. Layer them for fullness, and attach them to a harness (easily made from straps and buckles) or a backpack for support. Consider adding wire to the edges for shaping and support.
- Wire Frame Wings: Create a wire frame in the shape of wings and cover it with purple fabric or netting. This method provides a more structured and potentially larger wingspan.
- Repurposed Umbrella Wings: Remove the fabric from a broken umbrella and replace it with purple fabric. This can be a surprisingly effective and simple method, but make sure the umbrella frame is sturdy.
What About the Head and Face of the Flying Purple People Eater?
The head can be approached in several ways:
- Hood: A simple hooded robe provides a base, with the face details added separately.
- Mask: Create a mask from felt, foam, or even papier-mâché. Remember those iconic googly eyes!
- Full Headpiece: For a more immersive costume, consider creating a full headpiece that covers the entire head. This can be more challenging but creates a truly memorable look.
How Can I Make My Flying Purple People Eater Costume More Realistic?
"Realistic" for a Flying Purple People Eater is subjective! You could focus on texture and materials to make it feel plush and soft, or you could go for a more "monster" look with jagged edges and menacing features. Consider adding details like:
- Texture: Use different fabrics and textures to add depth and interest.
- Lighting: Consider adding small LED lights to the costume for an extra effect.
- Sound Effects: A small speaker hidden inside the costume could play the original song or other eerie sounds.
How Can I Make a Flying Purple People Eater Costume for Kids?
Creating a kid-friendly version involves simplifying the design and using safer materials. Focus on softer fabrics, and avoid small parts that could be a choking hazard. A simpler hooded robe with attached wings, big googly eyes, and felt claws would be perfect.
What are Some Accessories to Complete My Flying Purple People Eater Costume?
Accessories elevate the costume to the next level. Consider:
- Purple Gloves and Boots: Maintain the color scheme.
- Purple Hair: Dye your hair purple or use a wig.
- Makeup: Use purple makeup to enhance the effect.
With imagination and a bit of DIY spirit, you can create a truly unforgettable Flying Purple People Eater costume. Remember, the key is to have fun and embrace the whimsical nature of this iconic creature!
