Making a steampunk costume doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, you can probably use items that you already have around the house. If not, there are plenty of ways to get creative and make your costume for cheap. In this article, we will show you how to make a steampunk outfit on a budget. We’ll cover everything from crafting goggles to distressing old clothes. So whether you’re looking to save money or just want a unique DIY costume, read on for some helpful tips!
Before we get started, let’s take a look at what steampunk is. Steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction that typically features steam-powered machinery, such as dirigibles and time machines. It often has a Victorian or Wild West setting, and sometimes includes elements of fantasy or horror. Now that we know what steampunk is, let’s get started in creating the perfect costume!
Essentials for Steampunk Fashion
It is important to note that there are Steampunk archetypes, meaning there are certain characters that are commonly seen in Steampunk stories. These include the Air Pirate, the Mad Scientist, the Gentleman Adventurer, and more. You can find a full list of Steampunk archetypes on the internet. While you don’t necessarily need to pick one of these when creating your costume, it can be helpful to have an idea of what these archetypes are so you can refer to elements that you like from them.
Each archetype has their own unique style, but there are also some general fashion tips that apply to all Steampunk looks. Firstly, layers are key. Think about adding a vest or corset over a button-down shirt. You can also add a long skirt or trousers, and don’t forget the accessories! Steampunk Goggles are a must, as well as accessories like belts, boots, and gloves. You can find more Steampunk fashion tips on the internet or in Steampunk books and magazines.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Steampunk fashion, let’s move on to how you can create your own costume on a budget!
Gathering Materials for your Costume Design
If you run around your house you don’t need to find the perfect already-made steampunk outfit. Looking for these common materials will help create a high quality outfit with little to no effort! Start by looking for clothing like an old pair of pants or a leather jacket. Something that looks like it could be from the Victorian era or the Wild West would be perfect. You can also look for items like vests, corsets, button-down shirts, long skirts, and trousers. If you don’t have any of these items in your closet, try checking thrift stores where you’ll be sure to find a lot of these items.
Next, find materials for accessories or accents on your article of clothing like leather from an old belt or lace from an old skirt. Even something like old keys or jewelry can be used to add a Steampunk touch to your outfit. If you happen to have a clothing rivet kit you can utilize it to create a more fashionable article of clothing with metallic accents.
Lastly, look for old shoes and boots that you can use to tear up and finish your masterpiece. Remember that parts you don’t need can be used for other portions of your costume design.
How to Make a Steampunk Goggles
Next, you probably do not have accessories like kaleidoscope goggles lying around your home but no one said you didn’t have the right materials to make them. If you can, find some wire, pvc, old glasses, bolts/gears, wire coat hanger, cutting tools, and glue, then you can make your own.
You can start with the old glasses and use them as a base for the goggles. Next, polish the frame well with alcohol or sand paper because you’re going to want your adhesive to stick well. Get some pvc or if unavailable cut up big wider glasses like swimming goggles to make the larger eye socket section. Note, when you begin working with your goggles make sure you take the lenses off until the final stage. Use the glue to adhere the pvc or swim goggles to the old glasses.
After that, you can make a bridge between the two eye sockets with wire or a hanger. Make sure it’s not too tight so it will be comfortable to wear. It is important that your goggles can fit over your head comfortably because no one wants a headache from uncomfortable compression. Using leather on your goggles if possible will help facilitate the bridge or strap portion and give it a more polished look.
Now that the skeleton of your goggles is complete, you can start to add in some decorative elements like gears, washers, and anything else you might find around the house. You’re going to want to polish the goggles again to glue these items onto it. Once you are done decorating let the glue dry and paint everything with primer. The primer will help everything look more cohesive and adhere better. After the primer is dry, paint your goggles with a metallic color. If you want them to appear aged or used then consider adding a black glaze over top of the paint to give it some depth.
After all that, let the paint dry and re-assemble your lenses back into the frame and voilà your goggles are done. If you want to save yourself the hassle you can stop by Yield To The People where we provide quality goggles and other science fiction related products.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to spend a fortune on your costume or accessories. With a little creativity and some resourcefulness, you can easily design a fashionable Steampunk outfit without breaking the bank. Hopefully, this article has given you some ideas on how to get started. If you have any tips or suggestions feel free to leave them in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
