Introduction: Epic Kids Totem Pole Costume

This epic kids totem pole costume is designed for kids about 7 to 11 years old.

Supplies

  • Cardboard 52" x 42" corrugations along the long dimension
  • Cardboard 38" x12" corrugations along the long dimension
  • Black, red, yellow and blue Sharpies pens
  • X-Acto knife
  • White glue
  • Pins
  • Scissors

Step 1: Apply the Body Pattern to the Cardboard

  • Print out the pattern using totem_pages.pdf
  • Trim the bottom unprinted border off of the pages
  • Pin the pages centered on the lager piece of cardboard

Step 2: Transfer the Body Pattern to the Cardboard

  • Follow the lines of the pattern with a sharp X-Acto knife just deep enough to score the cardboard
  • Trace the scored lines in the colours show in the picture above
  • Fill in areas as in the photo

Step 3: Cut Holes for the Wings, Arms and Eyes

  • Measure, draw and cut out two triangular holes for the wings as in the photo
  • Measure, draw and cut out two rounded arm holes
  • Cut out the mouth of the beaver as the eye hole

Step 4: Wings

  • Cut out the wings from the smaller piece of cardboard as shown in the photo
  • Fold the wings 5 1/2" from the edges, leaving a 1" center
  • Draw a wing design such as that shown in the photo or your own design

Step 5: Assemble

  • Carefully fold the larger piece of cardboard into a circle with about a 4" overlap
  • Put the wing through the triangular holes
  • Try the totem on to the prospective child and adjust the overlap for best fit
  • Glue the overlap area and clamp by putting the overlap towards the ground and placing heavy objects such as books inside the totem body
  • Once the glue is dry it is complete