How to Make Capes for Kids From Plastic Tablecloths

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You can create quick and inexpensive children's capes at home using plastic tablecloths and supplies you probably already have on hand.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure

  • Pencil and paper

  • Rectangular or round plastic tablecloth

  • Scissors

  • Ruler

  • Double-sided tape

  • String for tying the cape (such as yarn or ribbon)

  • Stickers for decorating the cape (optional)

Step 1

Use a tape measure to measure the child from shoulder to shoulder. Add five inches to that measurement. Write down this number on a piece of paper for reference. This will be the width of the cape.

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Step 2

Measure the child from the shoulders to where you want the cape to end in length. Add two inches to that measurement. Write down this number on your reference paper as well. This will be the length of the cape.

Tip

If you are not comfortable cutting the tablecloth without a pattern, there are free cape templates available online.

Step 3

Open the tablecloth and lay it flat. With scissors, use the measurements from Steps 1 and 2 to cut out the cape from the tablecloth. You can use a pencil to mark the measurements on the tablecloth beforehand.

Step 4

To lessen the bulk around the child's neck, fold one of the top corners of the cape toward the wrong side (the underside) , creating a small triangle. Repeat on the other top corner. Secure the corners with double-sided tape.

Step 5

To create a collar, turn the top edge of the cape neck down to the right side of the cape, overlapping it by about two inches. Secure with double-sided tape.

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Step 6

Using scissors, cut a small hole (for the string ties) about one inch from the corner of the collar, cutting through all layers of the cape and collar.

Step 7

Cut two pieces of string, each about ten inches long.

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Tip

Use a coordinating ribbon instead of yarn or string to add an extra embellishment.

Step 8

Thread one piece of string through the hole on one side, leaving a short tail on one side. Tie a knot with the short tail around the longer part of the string to secure. Repeat this on the opposite side of the cape.

Step 9

Reinforce the holes with double-sided tape, taping over the holes on both sides. This will help avoid tears in the plastic tablecloth.

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Step 10

Decorate the cape with stickers if desired. This can be an opportunity for the child to be involved in the creative process!

Step 11

Place the cape on the child. Tie the string loosely in the front of the child's neck, ensuring the child is comfortable and that the string is not too tight.

Tip

If the cape does not seem secure, you can use safety pins to secure the cape to the child's clothing.

Warning

Do not put a plastic cape on an infant. Doing so could cause suffocation or choking if infant is unattended at any time.

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