I’m switching gears today for a little DIY fun! This costume was just too cute not to share. My daughter recently had a Dress Like Your Favorite Book Character day at school, and we chose Thelma the Unicorn. Have you read it? It’s hilarious, adorable, and a must-have for any kiddo’s bookshelf!
I’m so happy with how this costume turned out, and the best part? We made the whole thing for less than $10!
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Materials (All from Dollar Tree!)
- Pink headband
- Round sunglasses
- Gem stickers
- Foam cone
- Pink Felt
- Silver Yarn
- Craft glue
- Glitter
- Silver duct tape
How to Make the Thelma the Unicorn Costume
Step 1: Creating the Horn & Ears
First, I shaped the foam cone into more of a unicorn horn using a knife. Then, I covered it with craft glue and sprinkled on plenty of glitter—because what’s Thelma without sparkle? (tip: do this over a sheet pan for easy cleanup!).
Once dry, I used my trusty hot glue gun to attach the horn and felt ears to the pink headband.
Step 2: Making the Mane
For the mane, I cut the yarn to our desired length, then braided it into one long section. I tied the braid to the headband with a simple knot, and just like that, Thelma’s signature flowing mane was done!
Step 3: Creating the Tail
To match Thelma’s long, straight tail from the book, I cut more yarn to length and left it unbraided. I tied it together at one end and attached it to an old pink belt I had on hand. If you don’t have a belt, pink ribbon would work just as well.
Step 4: Decorating the Sunglasses
We found round sunglasses at Dollar Tree (perfect for Thelma’s look!) and jazzed them up by hot-gluing gem stickers around the frames. So simple, but so fun!
Step 5: DIY Hooves
For the hooves, I used silver duct tape. This was quick, easy, and there were no worries about them falling off! When she got home from school, we just cut them off and tossed them.
The Final Look
For the outfit, she wore a pink sweatsuit she already had, but leggings, or even tights and a pink leotard would work perfectly.
And there you have it! Our DIY Thelma the Unicorn costume for under $10!
