Creating the Coat and Trousers: Abraham Lincoln Costume Diy
Abraham lincoln costume diy – Crafting an Abraham Lincoln costume requires attention to detail, particularly in replicating the distinctive style of his coat and trousers. This section will guide you through constructing a historically-inspired ensemble using readily available materials and simple techniques. Even without extensive sewing experience, you can achieve a remarkably accurate and elegant look.
Coat Construction
The foundation of a successful Lincoln coat lies in selecting a suitable pattern. Begin by acquiring a simple, long coat pattern from a fabric store or online retailer. Look for patterns described as “regency” or “early 19th-century” styles, as these offer the closest approximation to Lincoln’s attire. Choose a dark, heavy fabric such as wool or a wool blend for authenticity.
The color should be a deep charcoal gray or black.The following steps provide a simplified approach to coat construction:
- Cutting the Fabric: Carefully follow the pattern instructions, ensuring accurate cutting of all pieces. Pay close attention to grainlines and notches, which will ensure the coat hangs correctly.
- Shoulder and Side Seams: Sew the shoulder seams and side seams together using a straight stitch. Press the seams open to prevent bulkiness.
- Collar Attachment: Attach the collar according to the pattern instructions. This step might require some patience, but careful pinning and stitching will yield a neat and professional result. Consider using a contrasting fabric for the collar for an added touch of sophistication.
- Sleeves: Sew the sleeves into the armholes, matching the notches. Ensure the sleeves are smoothly set and not pulled or gathered.
- Front Closure: For simplicity, use hook-and-eye closures rather than buttons. This eliminates the need for buttonholes, a more complex sewing technique. Position the hooks and eyes evenly along the front edges of the coat.
- Finishing Touches: Hem the bottom of the coat and the sleeves. Press the entire garment to achieve a crisp, finished look. A light hand-stitching along the hems adds a touch of authenticity.
Achieving a Tailored Look
To mimic the tailored appearance of Lincoln’s coat without complex tailoring techniques, focus on precise cutting and neat stitching. Pressing each seam thoroughly as you go is crucial. Consider using interfacing on the collar and front edges to provide structure and prevent stretching. A well-pressed garment will appear significantly more polished than a carelessly finished one. Remember, clean lines and sharp seams are key to a successful outcome.
Trousers Adjustment
Finding trousers that fit the Lincoln silhouette requires careful selection and, potentially, some minor adjustments. Start with a pair of dark-colored trousers made of a sturdy fabric, again opting for wool or a similar material. Ideally, the trousers should be high-waisted and relatively straight-legged.
- Waist Adjustment: If the waist is too large, take in the side seams to achieve a snug but comfortable fit. For a more tailored look, consider adding a waistband.
- Length Adjustment: Hem the trousers to the desired length. Lincoln’s trousers typically reached the top of his shoes. Ensure a clean, even hem.
- Leg Adjustment: If the legs are too wide, carefully take them in at the side seams. Maintain a straight leg shape, avoiding any significant tapering.
Constructing the Accessories
Completing your Abraham Lincoln costume requires attention to detail, and the accessories—the top hat, cravat, and beard—are crucial elements in achieving an authentic look. These seemingly small additions significantly elevate the overall impression, transforming a simple outfit into a truly memorable portrayal. Let’s delve into the creation of these essential components using readily available materials.
Top Hat Construction
A top hat is easily constructed using sturdy cardboard, preferably black, and fabric remnants. Begin by creating a pattern. Draw a large circle on the cardboard for the crown, its diameter depending on the desired hat size. Next, create a ring slightly larger than the circle’s diameter, this will form the hat’s base. Cut these shapes out carefully.
To create the brim, cut a long rectangular strip of cardboard, its length determined by the desired brim width and circumference of the base ring. The width should be approximately 2-3 inches. Attach the brim to the base ring, ensuring a smooth, even connection. Then, carefully attach the crown to the center of the base ring. Once the cardboard structure is complete, cover it with black fabric using fabric glue or double-sided tape.
A stiff fabric, like felt or buckram, is recommended for a more rigid finish. For a more elegant look, consider adding a black grosgrain ribbon around the base of the crown.
Cravat or Necktie Creation
A simple cravat can be fashioned from a rectangular piece of black fabric, approximately 12 inches wide and 18 inches long. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, creating a long strip. Bring the two shorter ends together, overlapping slightly, and secure them with a knot or a small safety pin. The cravat’s length can be adjusted by altering the initial length of the fabric.
For a more structured look, consider lightly starching the fabric before tying it. Alternatively, a necktie can be made using a similar technique, but with a narrower piece of fabric and a more intricate knot, such as a simple four-in-hand. A subtle sheen can be added by using a fabric with a slight satin finish.
Fake Beard and Mustache Construction
Achieving an authentic Abraham Lincoln beard requires attention to both style and texture. Several readily available materials can be used. For a full beard, consider using black yarn or faux fur. Cut the material into a desired shape, remembering Lincoln’s distinctive beard style. Attach the beard to a thin headband or hairnet, which can then be secured under your own chin and around the back of your head.
A glue gun can be used to secure the material to the headband, ensuring a strong and lasting bond. For a shorter, more neatly trimmed beard, consider using felt or a similar material, carefully shaping and cutting it to mimic the desired look. A mustache can be created using the same materials, carefully shaping and gluing it above your upper lip.
Crafting an Abraham Lincoln costume can be surprisingly simple, focusing on the iconic top hat and long coat. Need inspiration for a more playful approach to DIY costumes? Check out this fantastic guide on diy costume mickey mouse for some fun ideas. Then, return to your presidential project, remembering that even a simple, well-executed Lincoln costume will be a hit.
For a more wispy look, use thinner strands of yarn or individual faux fur pieces. Consider experimenting with different lengths and textures of yarn or faux fur to create a variety of beard styles, ranging from a full, bushy beard to a shorter, more refined look.
Adding Finishing Touches
Transforming your Abraham Lincoln costume from a mere collection of fabric into a truly believable portrayal requires attention to detail. The final touches are crucial in achieving a historically accurate and visually compelling representation of the 16th President. By carefully considering the aging of the fabrics and employing subtle makeup techniques, you can elevate your costume to a new level of realism.The process of aging fabric and adding a weathered look to the coat and trousers involves a blend of techniques that mimic the effects of time and wear.
Achieving this authentic look requires a delicate touch, avoiding overly aggressive methods that might damage the fabric or create an unrealistic appearance. The goal is to subtly suggest the passage of time, not to make the garments appear dilapidated.
Fabric Aging Techniques, Abraham lincoln costume diy
Several methods can be employed to achieve a realistic aged appearance on the fabric. One effective approach involves using tea or coffee to dye the fabric. A weak solution of brewed tea or coffee, applied with a sponge or brush, can create a subtle discoloration and add a vintage feel. The strength of the solution and the number of applications determine the intensity of the aging effect.
For a more pronounced effect, diluted black acrylic paint can be used in the same manner. Remember to test your chosen method on a scrap piece of fabric first to ensure the desired result and avoid unwanted discoloration. Once the desired color is achieved, allow the fabric to air dry completely. To further enhance the aged effect, consider gently rubbing sandpaper along the seams and edges of the coat and trousers to create a subtle fraying effect, mimicking the natural wear and tear of well-loved clothing.
Creating a Weathered Look
Beyond simple discoloration, creating a truly weathered look involves adding subtle textural variations. This can be achieved through a combination of techniques. For example, after applying the tea or coffee dye, you could use a crumpled piece of cloth or a sponge to dab on diluted paint, creating mottled areas that suggest sun bleaching or discoloration from frequent use.
Alternatively, consider strategically applying small patches of darker paint to areas that would naturally receive more wear, such as the elbows and knees of the trousers. This creates depth and visual interest, adding to the overall realism of the costume. Remember to blend the paint seamlessly into the existing fabric color to avoid harsh lines and maintain a natural appearance.
Makeup for Lincoln Likeness
Subtle makeup application can significantly enhance the resemblance to Abraham Lincoln. Focus on highlighting the characteristic features of his face. This includes creating the deep-set eyes and prominent cheekbones that are associated with his likeness. Start with a light base, slightly darker than the wearer’s natural skin tone, to provide a canvas for the rest of the makeup.
Using a darker shade of foundation or eyeshadow, gently sculpt the cheekbones and hollows of the eyes. This will add depth and shadow to the face, creating a more defined and mature appearance. Remember to blend the makeup seamlessly to avoid a mask-like effect. Finally, consider using a light brown eyebrow pencil to subtly enhance the eyebrows, giving them a more defined shape.
The key is to use a restrained approach, enhancing the natural features without creating an overly theatrical or artificial look.
FAQ Overview
How long will it take to make the costume?
The time required depends on your skill level and the complexity of the costume you choose. A simpler version could be completed in a weekend, while a more detailed costume might take several days or even a week.
Can I use a store-bought top hat instead of making one?
Absolutely! Using a pre-made top hat can save time and effort. Focus your energy on other aspects of the costume, like the coat and accessories.
What if I don’t have a sewing machine?
Many of the techniques described can be adapted for hand-sewing. It will take longer, but it’s perfectly achievable. Consider simpler designs or using fabric glue for certain elements.
Where can I find images of Abraham Lincoln for reference?
You can easily find numerous high-quality images of Abraham Lincoln online through image searches on sites like Google Images, or explore historical archives and museums online.