There are two types of people in this world: Those that buy pre-packaged Halloween costumes, and those that DIY.
But the DIY route isn’t just for rich and talented designers… especially if you take advantage of free, simple materials like cardboard boxes leftover from a recent move, or Amazon order. (Need free boxes? Check these places.)
But wait… you don’t believe DIY costumes can look that great? Just ask TikTok.
Below are 10 examples of super creative costumes put together by TikTok users using mostly cardboard. Now watch, get inspired, then get crafting before that Halloween party gets here.
1. Steve from Minecraft
@b3v3r463this is why I haven’t posted???? #costume#minecraft♬ original sound – Cerebro ???? Grande????????
If you know a kid between the age of 3-30, you’ve probably heard about Minecraft. Cardboard boxes are perfect for recreating the block-like characters and accessories featured in the game.
2. Haunted House
@inbetweenbranchesBB UR A HAUNTED HOUSE! #Halloween #halloweencostume #cardboard #costumes #reels #creativestylist #creativedirector♬ Baby You’re a Haunted House – Gerard Way
Did someone say house party? Raise the roof at your next Halloween gathering by showing up in this inventive cardboard creation.
3. Transformer
@w855173wWhen your son wants to be bumblebee we make it a challenger! #bumblebee #transformers #transformercostume #cardboardcostume♬ Knight Rider – TV Themes
If you want to guarantee your kid will win the costume contest at school, we recommend this cardboard box Transformer costume that changes from Bumblebee to a Dodge Challenger. (Instructions not included.)
4. T-Rex
@mamabearxx08#foryoupage #fypシ #cardboard #art #dinosaur #handmadecostume #halloweenlook♬ Fancy Like – Walker Hayes
This cardboard dino costume stands out from the crowd with a long, swinging tail. But with arms like these, parents might need to help out by carrying the candy pail.
5. Butterfly
@heymonaheyyyAre you DIYing your costume this year? Cardboard is really versatile! #halloweenlook #fyp♬ TWINNEM – Coi Leray
For a simple but beautiful Halloween costume, these butterfly wings made from cardboard are a great DIY idea. Bonus: you can throw them over just about any outfit.
6. Springtrap
@bigjoedadyMy 14 year old son made his own costume. springtrap took 3 months cardboard, foam and felt #fyp #HappyHalloween #40something #fivenightsatfreddys♬ Viva La Swing aka #SandoTwist by @Abiud_Sando – Mingaling 2.0
For those with some major creative muscles to flex, this Springtrap character costume from the popular video game Five Nights at Freddy’s is both cute and creepy (okay, mostly creepy).
7. Terrance (or Phillip)
@knotpossible#southpark #terranceandphillip #cardboard #upcycle #recycle #reuse #repurpose #diy #cardboardcostume #cosplay #art #canadian #comedy @comedycentral♬ South Park Theme – Voidoid
Fans of the pottymouth characters of South Park will get a kick out of this DIY Terrance of the “Terrance and Phillip” duo.
8. Cake Slice
@craftychicaHow to make a cake slice Halloween costume! #LearnOnTikTok #TikTokPartner #cakeslice #halloween #costume #cardboardbox #boxtume #halloweencostume ♬ BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL – TJ Carter
Going for a look that’s more sweet than spooky? Just add sprinkles! You’ll be the belle of the dessert table with this cake slice Halloween costume made from cardboard boxes.
9. Outhouse
@michelleypetersonKiddo revealing his costume to family and his #GirlFriend #halloween2020 #costume #OutHouse #CountyKid #pnw #GottaPoop #CowboyBoots #CardboardBox♬ original sound – Chicken_Mama
This costume takes “potty humor” to a whole new level. Enough said.
10. Taco Truck
@oliviagevPet costume idea under $15 #foryou #foryoupage #halloween #petcostume #walmart #costumeidea #bulldog #englishbulldog #taco #tacotruck #dog #cute #woof♬ El Jarabe Tapatio – Mariachi Vargas Tecalitlán
Don’t leave your fur babies out of the fun this year. Cardboard boxes can be used to craft adorable pet costumes too. Taco ‘bout a Halloween hit.