Robot Costume
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The word “robot” comes from Karel Čapek’s 1920 play R.U.R., and the boxy silver robot has been a kids’ favorite costume ever since. The cardboard box version is a classic DIY project: cheap, creative and something kids love helping to build.
What Makes It Work
Two boxes make the robot. Cut head and arm holes in a large box for the body, and use a smaller box for the head with a window cut out for the face. Cover both with silver spray paint or silver duct tape.
Decorate the control panel. Glue bottle caps for buttons, a jar lid for a dial, pipe cleaners for wires, and a small battery light or reflective tape. Draw a simple display screen with marker.
For the arms and legs, wear gray or silver clothes. Silver dryer-vent hose slid over the arms looks great. Add a pipe-cleaner antenna on the head, and walk stiffly with sound effects.
What People Get Wrong
A box that’s too big to walk or sit in. Measure from shoulder to hip and leave room to bend. The other miss is a head box with no ventilation; cut extra air holes.
Buy It or Build It?
Store-bought robot costumes run $25 to $50. The cardboard version costs almost nothing, just silver tape or paint (about $10) and bottle caps.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
How do I make a robot costume out of a box?
Cut head and arm holes in a box, cover it in silver duct tape or paint, and glue on bottle caps, lids and pipe cleaners for buttons and wires.
How do I make robot arms?
Slide silver dryer-vent hose over gray sleeves, or wrap the arms in silver duct tape over an old long-sleeve shirt.
Is a robot costume good for kids?
Yes, and they love building it. Just make sure the box isn’t too big to walk in.
What couples costume goes with a robot?
An astronaut, an alien, or a mad scientist who built it.
Next up: Astronaut Costume
See Also
Free: The Last-Minute Costume Cheat Sheet
Ten costumes you can make tonight, mostly from your own closet. One page, printable, plus a short email before each costume season. No spam.