Introduction
A DIY scarecrow outfit is one of the most timeless, affordable, and charming costume choices for Halloween. Whether you’re creating a last-minute look, dressing up the whole family, or crafting something special with your kids, scarecrow costumes are easy to personalize and require little to no sewing.
This guide walks you through 9 fun, creative scarecrow ideas that range from classic to quirky—so you’ll never run out of inspiration this spooky season.
Each look includes a step-by-step breakdown, easy-to-find materials, and helpful tips that make crafting fun for beginners and seasoned DIYers alike.
🧵 Key Takeaways
Idea Type | Difficulty | Best For | Reusability | Time Estimate |
---|---|---|---|---|
Classic Flannel Look | Easy | Adults, Teens | High | 30–45 mins |
Straw Hat + Overalls | Easy | Kids, Toddlers | Medium | 25 mins |
Makeup-Only Scarecrow | Very Easy | Teens, Last-Minute | High | 10 mins |
Couples Costumes | Moderate | Adults, Parents | Medium | 45–60 mins |
Pet Scarecrow | Easy | Dog Owners | Medium | 30 mins |
Farmhouse Chic | Moderate | Moms, Pinterest Fans | Low | 1 hr |
Upcycled Flannel | Easy | Budget Crafters | High | 30 mins |
No-Sew Kids Costume | Very Easy | Busy Parents | Medium | 20–25 mins |
Toddler Overalls Set | Easy | Toddlers, Babies | Medium | 20 mins |
What You Need to Make a DIY Scarecrow Outfit
Before diving into individual costume ideas, it’s helpful to know the staples of any scarecrow costume. These are the building blocks for nearly every variation.
Basic Materials Checklist
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Flannel shirt (the more colorful or plaid, the better)
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Denim jeans or overalls
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Straw hat or floppy brimmed hat
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Raffia or artificial straw for stuffing
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Bandana or necktie
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Boots or old sneakers
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Black eyeliner or costume face paint
These items can usually be found at home, thrift stores, or budget retailers like Dollar Tree and Walmart. Raffia bundles, in particular, can be purchased for under $5 at most craft stores (Michael’s, Joann’s).
Optional but Helpful Tools
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Hot glue gun or fabric glue
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Safety pins or Velcro strips
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Makeup brushes or sponges
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Scrap fabric or patches
For a quick shopping list, check out our recommended kits and accessories at Best DIY Kits.
1. Classic Flannel Scarecrow Outfit
This look is a Halloween favorite for a reason—it’s fast, versatile, and works for any age. It pairs a flannel shirt with jeans, boots, and simple scarecrow makeup for a rustic, ready-to-go vibe.
Style Breakdown
Start with a plaid flannel shirt tucked into a pair of jeans or denim overalls. Stuff small bunches of raffia or fake straw into the shirt cuffs, pant legs, and collar to simulate a “stuffed” look.
Secure the straw using safety pins or glue it to the inside hem of your clothing. Add a wide-brimmed straw hat, and tie a bandana around your neck for extra charm.
To personalize, glue on some fabric patches or add rope or twine around the waist as a belt.
Why It Works
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Great for adults and teens
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Easy to layer for cold-weather trick-or-treating
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Easily reused or modified next year
Pro Tip: Look for thrifted flannel shirts in oversized fits to add a baggy, authentic scarecrow feel.
2. No-Sew Kids’ Scarecrow Outfit
This version is made for busy parents who want a quick, no-fuss solution for Halloween. With no sewing involved, you can put it together in 30 minutes or less.
Quick Materials
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Toddler-size flannel shirt
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Denim overalls or corduroy pants
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Raffia or felt strips
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Felt patches (iron-on or adhesive)
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Kid-friendly straw hat
Parent Hacks
Use fabric tape to attach colorful patches to the shirt or pants. Raffia can be gently stuffed into the cuffs and secured with soft Velcro to avoid irritating sensitive skin.
Instead of full makeup, draw a tiny triangle nose and stitch-like smile using non-toxic face paint or eyeliner pencils safe for kids.
Pair it with soft booties or canvas shoes, and you’re done!
Safety Note: Avoid small items or glue near the face. Always test for comfort and adjust if needed.
Inspiration Source: Good Housekeeping’s Halloween DIY Roundup
3. Couples’ Scarecrow Costumes
Matching scarecrow outfits are a hit for couples looking to bring a theme to their Halloween party or photo shoot.
This concept lets you get creative with gender-neutral styling or complementary characters (like a farmer and a scarecrow).
Coordinated Looks
One partner can dress in a classic scarecrow outfit, while the other adds a creative twist—like a burlap skirt, autumn-toned blouse, or even a floral crown with faux leaves.
Add props like a toy pitchfork or pumpkin basket to bring it together.
Color coordination is key. Use matching flannel patterns, or choose tones that echo fall foliage: burnt orange, mustard yellow, burgundy, and forest green.
Where to Find Matching Items
Check out our DIY couples costume guide at bestdiykits.com for flannel combos and matching accessory packs.
Bonus Idea: If you’re going to a party, turn it into a group theme—scarecrow, farmer, crow, and pumpkin characters always get smiles.
4. DIY Scarecrow Makeup Tutorial
Makeup brings the scarecrow to life, even if the outfit is basic. This part is where personality shines, and it’s surprisingly simple to do—even if you’re a beginner.
Step-by-Step Visual Guide
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Base: Apply foundation or BB cream as normal. If you want extra color, use orange or peach blush in large circles on your cheeks.
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Nose: Draw a triangle on the nose using an orange pencil or eyeshadow. Outline it in black eyeliner for stitched detail.
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Eyes: Add fake lashes or use mascara. Then draw fake stitches at the corners of your eyes using a fine-tipped eyeliner.
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Lips: Paint a wide smile, and extend it slightly with stitched lines for a spooky-cute effect.
Makeup Tools & Brands That Work
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Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner
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NYX Jumbo Pencil (Orange)
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ELF Face Paint Kit
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Mehron Paradise Paints for detailed looks
Pro Tip: Want it to last through a night out? Use a makeup setting spray like Urban Decay All Nighter or Milani Make It Last.
5. Last-Minute Makeup-Only Costume
Sometimes Halloween sneaks up on you—and that’s when this makeup-only scarecrow look comes in handy. You don’t need a full outfit, props, or even much time.
Just grab a plaid shirt, pull on your jeans, and lean into your face paint.
What You Need
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A black eyeliner pencil
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Orange lipstick or blush
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A flannel shirt (buttoned up)
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A straw hat or beanie (optional)
How to Pull It Off
Draw a stitched nose, dotted cheek blush, and a wide stitched smile. Keep it light and playful or make it slightly spooky with darker accents.
This look works well for teens, college students, or anyone heading out with little prep time.
Make it memorable by adding a crow plushie on your shoulder or holding a small basket with hay—it’s a fun twist that takes just seconds.
6. Farmhouse Chic Scarecrow
If you love Pinterest boards, rustic fall vibes, and pretty fall decor, the farmhouse chic scarecrow is for you.
This feminine twist on the classic look leans into softer fabrics, earthy colors, and delicate accessories.
Feminine Twist
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Soft-toned flannel shirt or burlap-lace top
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Tulle or cotton midi skirt in warm shades
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Rope belt with sunflowers tucked in
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Straw hat decorated with faux autumn leaves or flowers
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Cowboy boots or lace-up ankle boots
You can find many of these pieces at thrift stores or in your closet—just think of soft, fall-inspired colors and textures.
Where to Shop It
Craft stores like Joann often have fall-themed floral picks and burlap ribbon. Add some decorative stitching or stick-on patches for flair.
This outfit looks great in family photos or fall festivals, not just Halloween.
Style Tip: Pair it with a soft makeup look—peachy blush, brown eyeliner, and just a hint of shimmer.
7. Pet Scarecrow Outfit
Why should humans have all the fun? A scarecrow costume for your dog adds a playful twist to Halloween and makes for adorable photo ops. It’s easy, safe, and surprisingly quick to assemble.
Outfit Ideas for Dogs
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Flannel dog bandana (or cut a small square from an old shirt)
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Tiny hat or elastic headband with fall details
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DIY “straw” collar made with soft raffia or yarn
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Stick-on felt patches for added charm
You can also buy pre-made pet scarecrow costumes at pet stores or Chewy, but DIY versions are often more comfortable for your pup.
Safety Considerations
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Avoid small choking hazards like buttons or glued-on pieces
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Test the costume for comfort before wearing it out
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Make sure hats are secured gently and won’t obstruct vision or breathing
Fun Idea: Dress as a farmer or matching scarecrow and take a walk through a pumpkin patch together!
8. Upcycled Scarecrow from Old Clothes
If you’re all about eco-friendly costumes or just love a good DIY challenge, this idea is for you.
Making a scarecrow outfit from upcycled clothes not only saves money—it also gives new life to pieces you might have thrown out.
Sustainability Bonus
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Use old flannel shirts with holes or stains—those flaws add character!
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Cut worn jeans into patches or use the fabric to create straw cuffs
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Decorate with scrap fabrics, buttons, or ribbons you already own
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Add creative accessories like a reused belt, scarf, or thrifted hat
This is the most budget-friendly scarecrow option and perfect for DIYers who want to minimize waste.
Did You Know? Textile waste is a massive environmental issue. The average American throws away 81 pounds of clothing annually (EPA.gov).
This project helps you turn trash into treasure—and look good doing it.
9. Toddler Overalls Scarecrow Look
This is hands-down one of the cutest costumes you’ll ever make. Little ones look absolutely adorable in overalls, and this costume is soft, safe, and photogenic.
Adorable and Easy
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Overalls or a romper in denim or corduroy
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Long-sleeved flannel or striped shirt
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Soft raffia or felt “straw” tucked into the sides
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Stick-on patches in primary colors
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Baby boots or soft shoes
Top it off with a mini straw hat—often available at craft stores or online in multipacks. For makeup, skip the paint if your baby’s skin is sensitive. A little pink blush and a drawn-on triangle nose using hypoallergenic pencil will do.
Add-On Options
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A sunflower headband
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A toy crow pinned to the hat
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A mini pumpkin prop to hold or sit beside in photos
Parent Tip: This costume also works great for daycare parties or stroller parades—it’s comfy enough for all-day wear.
FAQs
How long does it take to make a scarecrow costume?
Most scarecrow costumes take 20 to 45 minutes to assemble. Makeup-only versions can be done in under 10 minutes.
Can I make a scarecrow costume with no sewing?
Absolutely. Every outfit in this guide is designed to be 100% no-sew. Use safety pins, fabric glue, and Velcro for fast, durable results.
Where can I buy scarecrow costume supplies?
You can find supplies at local thrift shops, craft stores like Michaels, or check out curated kits at Best DIY Kits.
What’s the best scarecrow outfit for kids?
The No-Sew Kids’ Outfit and the Toddler Overalls Look are both ideal for comfort, cuteness, and ease. Both use soft materials and avoid any tight fits or irritating fabrics.
Can I reuse a scarecrow costume next year?
Yes. Many items—like flannel shirts, hats, and makeup supplies—can be reused or stored. Choose removable patches or safety-pin straw pieces to make cleaning easier.
Conclusion
A DIY scarecrow outfit is more than just a Halloween costume—it’s a fun, creative experience that lets you personalize your look with minimal time and effort. Whether you’re going classic or chic, crafting for kids or dressing up your dog, there’s a version of this costume that fits your style, budget, and schedule.
With no sewing required, and plenty of ways to customize, these 9 scarecrow looks prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to make a memorable impression.
So grab a flannel, a bit of raffia, and your favorite hat—it’s time to turn yourself into a harvest-season icon.
👉 Related Posts: DIY Ornaments for Christmas, DIY Christmas Decoration, DIY Halloween Costumes Ladies, DIY Halloween Decorations for Outside, DIY Valentine’s Card, DIY Ugly Christmas Sweaters,
✅ Call to Action
Ready to create your scarecrow costume?
👉 Browse our curated costume kits, makeup bundles, and family-sized flannel sets at Best DIY Kits.
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