Back in my teaching days we were always looking for ways to make education entertaining on a low budget. However, the idea that follows is not just useful for educators but also anybody who is looking for something to pass a rainy day indoors without having your children glued to the television.

You will need:

As much newspaper as possible
Tape
Some picture books / magazines showing clothing

The first step is to be realistic. Choose a picture of a costume that will present a challenge but is within the abilities of the age range carrying out the project. It may be a supermodels latest fantastic showpiece from Milan or a historical outfit: a Samurai, a Geisha and a Victorian ladys crinolin were all examples my students produced. The realm of fantasy has countless possibilities: Neptune, Medusa, a werewolf or a harpy are just some suggestions that immediately come to mind.

This works best in groups of three or four, but can be done with just two people. One will have to be the model, the others the designers. By rolling, crinkling and folding the paper and connecting sections together with tape the most fantastic costumes can begin to take form.

For the more adventurous, other everyday household items can be used. Sponges or potato printing for painting the costume, or incorporate other household items like empty yoghurt pots and bottle tops.

A basic costume can be built in under an hour, a more complex one can provide hours of entertainment for all involved. If you want to carry it even further why not hold a fashion show? This project can be as fun and as involved as you make it!