Independence
Day edition
Your preloved clothes + our easy DIY hacks = genius no-buy costumes
Welcome, Prelove Scientists! Independence Day is around the corner and we’re testing a fun hypothesis: Can we create amazing costumes using only secondhand items?
Spoiler alert: Yes, we can! Grab your lab coats (or an old T-shirt), and let’s get crafting.
The Classic Firecracker
For the kid who’s ready to light up the sky (safely, of course!)
Ingredients:
- A red or blue T-shirt
- White pants, shorts, or a skirt
- Striped or starry socks
(or plain ones with paper stars taped on!) - A toilet paper roll + red and yellow paper
(for a DIY firework hat)
Method:
- Roll a piece of red paper around a toilet paper roll and tape in place to form the base of the firecracker hat.
- Cut yellow and orange paper strips, curl them slightly by running them along the edge of scissors, and tape them inside the top of the roll to resemble sparks.
- Punch two small holes on opposite sides of the roll and thread a string or elastic band through to create a headband that holds the hat in place.
- Add extra star stickers or glitter for more sparkle!
Parent Lab Report:
“ This was so easy! My son wore his soccer socks, and we stuck stars on his shirt. The hat lasted 10 minutes, but the pictures will last forever!”
— Jamie, Parent Scientist
The Star-Spangled Superhero
For the kid who’s wants to save the day in red, white, and blue!
Ingredients:
- A blue T-shirt or hoodie
- Red or white pants/leggings
- A pillowcase or scarf (for a cape!)
- A paper star (for a superhero emblem)
- Construction paper or felt
(for wrist cuffs and a mask)
Method:
- Cut a large star out of paper or felt and tape or sew it onto the front of the shirt for an instant superhero emblem.
- Transform an old pillowcase or scarf into a dramatic cape by attaching it to the back of the shirt with safety pins or Velcro.
- Make wrist cuffs by cutting toilet paper rolls in half, painting them red, and decorating them with smaller stars.
- Create a simple superhero mask by cutting eye holes into a piece of felt or construction paper, then tying it around the head with string.
Strike a power pose!
Parent Lab Report:
“ My daughter felt like a real superhero!
She ran around the yard yelling,
‘For freedom!’ the whole evening.”
— Chris, Parent Scientist
The Human Flag
Grab your whole crew for this one
Ingredients:
- One red, one white, and one blue T-shirt
(layered or shared between siblings!) - White stars cut from paper or felt
- Red and white fabric strips (for a waving effect)
- Optional: a cardboard flagpole for added drama
Method:
- Dress in layers, ensuring the top shirt is blue, and attach white stars cut from felt or paper with tape or fabric glue.
- If making a group costume, line up side by side, each person wearing a different color (red, white, or blue) to resemble a waving flag.
- Cut red and white fabric strips and pin them to the bottom of a white shirt to create a “waving” flag effect when walking or running.
- For an extra festive touch, attach a cardboard tube or rolled-up paper as a flagpole and march proudly!
Parent Lab Report:
“ Three kids, three colors—done! No glue, no mess, just a perfect group costume for the block party.”
— Taylor, Parent Scientist
Reminder! Tag us at @preloveyoukids with your red, white and blue transformations to be featured on Instagram!
