Introduction: The Timeless Appeal of E.T.

“ET the Extra-Terrestrial,” directed by Steven Spielberg, is a classic film that has enchanted audiences since its release in 1982. The story revolves around the friendship between a young boy, Elliott, and a lost alien named E.T. This heartwarming tale of love, friendship, and adventure has left a lasting mark on popular culture. One of the most iconic aspects of the film is E.T.’s unique appearance, making it a popular choice for costumes—especially during Halloween. If you’re looking to bring the charm of this beloved character to life, creating your own ET costume is an exciting project. Whether you’re aiming for a fun DIY experience or a sophisticated look for a themed event, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know.

From essential components to creative tips, let’s dive into the delightful world of E.T. and explore how to make an E.T. costume at home that captures the spirit of this unforgettable character.

Understanding E.T.’s Character Design

To create a memorable ET costume, it’s important to understand the key characteristics that define E.T.’s appearance. The film presents several elements that contribute to his iconic look:

1. Color Palette and Texture

• Skin Color: E.T. is predominantly brown, featuring a textured appearance that mimics wrinkled skin. To replicate this, it’s vital to choose the right materials that capture this effect. Consider using fabrics such as brown fleece or suede to create a lifelike texture.
• Facial Features: E.T.’s large, expressive eyes are also a defining element. Seek materials that allow you to create oversized eyes, as they are essential to portraying the character.

2. Body Structure

• Head Shape: E.T. has a distinct head shape characterized by a sizeable rounded dome. This structure should be reflected in your costume design for authenticity.
• Limbs and Body: His long, thin limbs give him an otherworldly appearance. It’s essential to focus on the proportions of the costume to make sure it accurately represents E.T.’s unusual form.

Key Components of the ET Costume

A successful ET costume involves several critical components that work together to embody the character fully. Here’s a breakdown to help you create a cohesive look.

1. The Headpiece

• Base Structure: Start by creating a structured headpiece that will represent E.T.’s head. You can use a large balloon or foam, covering it with brown fabric to mimic his skin texture. Secure any exaggerated dimensions at the top to enhance the dome shape.
• Eyes and Mouth: Use white felt for the eyes, placing large black buttons or dark felt in the center to give E.T. his characteristic look. For the mouth, a simple smile can be drawn or crafted as part of the headpiece.

2. The Body Suit

• Choosing the Right Outfit: For the main body suit, consider using a brown jumpsuit as the base. You can either sew your own or purchase a pre-made jumpsuit that has a loose fit, allowing for additional layering.
• Adding Texture: To recreate E.T.’s wrinkled skin effect, you can attach smaller pieces of brown fabric or faux fur to the suit. This will give the suit a more textured appearance and help mimic E.T.’s look.

3. Hands and Feet

• Creating E.T.’s Hands: If you want to go the extra mile, create fingerless gloves using brown fabric that has the same texture as the suit. This detail can add realism to your costume.
• Footwear Options: Consider using brown shoes or booties that blend in with the jumpsuit. Keeping your footwear comfortable is key, especially if you’ll be wearing the costume for an extended period.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make an E.T. Costume at Home

To simplify the process, here’s a detailed step-by-step tutorial to help you create your E.T. costume from start to finish.

Gather Your Materials

• Fabric Supplies: Collect brown fabric that is soft and pliable, such as fleece or felt. You will also need fabric for the eyes and mouth, along with stuffing or padding for the body suit.
• Construction Tools: Ensure you have scissors, a sewing machine or needle and thread, fabric glue, and a large balloon or craft foam for the headpiece.

Construct the Headpiece

• Creating the Mold: Inflate your balloon to the desired size of E.T.’s head. Once inflated, begin wrapping it with brown fabric, using fabric glue to secure it in place. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding.
• Adding Facial Features: Cut out the eye shapes and attach them securely. Add the mouth by crafting it from felt, and sew or glue it firmly to the headpiece. Once everything is secure, remove the balloon and ensure your headpiece retains its shape.

Design the Body Suit

Altering the Jumpsuit

• Choosing the Right Jumpsuit:
  Begin by selecting a brown jumpsuit that fits comfortably. Ideally, it should be slightly loose to allow for modifications without losing mobility. You can either use a pre-existing jumpsuit from your wardrobe or purchase one from a costume store or thrift shop.
• Fitting the Jumpsuit:
  Once you have the jumpsuit, try it on to assess the fit. If it feels too baggy in certain areas or doesn’t quite mirror E.T.’s shape, consider taking it to a tailor for professional adjustments or modify it yourself using basic sewing techniques.
• Creating Additional Padding:
  To mimic E.T.’s unique physique, especially his notably round shoulders and arms, add padding. You can use lightweight materials such as foam, quilt batting, or even rolled-up socks. Cut the padding into shapes that will fit snugly around the shoulders and upper arms, then secure them using fabric glue or by stitching.
• Sewing in the Padding:
  Carefully sew or attach the padding to the inside of the jumpsuit’s arms and shoulders. Make sure it is evenly distributed to maintain a balanced appearance. If you don’t want to sew, consider using safety pins or fabric adhesive to attach the padding temporarily.
• Testing for Comfort and Mobility:
  After adding the padding, try on the jumpsuit again to ensure that it is comfortable and allows for movement. Make adjustments as needed to ensure that the padding doesn’t restrict your arms or shoulders.

Texturing the Fabric

• Understanding E.T.’s Skin Texture:
  E.T.’s skin is characterized by a wrinkled, textured appearance that gives him a unique alien look. To replicate this in your costume, focus on creating depth and realism by utilizing various materials and techniques.
• Selecting Materials:
  Choose a mix of fabrics for texturing, including brown felt, fleece, or even faux fur. Thicker materials can create a more pronounced texture, while lighter fabrics can add subtle detail without overwhelming the overall look.
• Cutting the Fabric:
  Cut the chosen fabric into various shapes and sizes. Utilizing different sizes allows you to create the appearance of varied skin textures. Make sure to include pieces that are larger for the main areas of the jumpsuit and smaller pieces for detailed sections.
• Attaching the Fabric Pieces:
  Begin attaching the fabric pieces to the jumpsuit, starting with the larger sections. Use fabric glue or a sewing machine to secure them. Gradually work your way around the jumpsuit, overlapping pieces slightly to create a layered effect that simulates E.T.’s skin.
• Adding Faux Fur:
  For extra realism, consider adding patches of faux fur to certain areas, like the arms or back, to mimic E.T.’s unique textures. Choose short or medium-length fur that fits the color scheme of the costume and blends well with the brown backdrop.
• Finishing Touches:
  Once all fabric pieces are securely attached, examine the costume for any gaps or uneven areas. Make small adjustments by adding additional textures where needed. Finally, consider lightly brushing or fluffing the fabric to achieve a more lifelike appearance.

Easy E.T. Costume Tutorial for Kids

Creating a homemade E.T. costume can be a fun bonding activity with children. The following simplified tutorial suits younger creators, making the process manageable and enjoyable.

1. Engaging Children in the Process

• Selecting Fabrics: Allow kids to pick out the fabric colors and patterns. Engaging them in the decision-making helps cultivate excitement for their costume.

2. Creating a Kid-Friendly Headpiece

• Using a Soft Base: Instead of a structured balloon, use a soft, large brown hat or cap as a base for the headpiece. Spray paint can be applied to give it the right texture and color.
• Fun Decorations: Encourage children to draw or paint facial features on the cap. This customization allows them to express their artistic side.

3. Comfort is Key

• When crafting the body suit for kids, focus on comfort first. Use a simple brown hoodie combined with brown sweatpants for a quick and cozy option.

Best Accessories for Your E.T. Costume

Accessories play a crucial role in enhancing your ET costume and completing the overall look. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Blanket or Shawl

• E.T.’s Wrapping: Include a lightweight blanket or shawl that mimics how E.T. often wraps himself. This detail adds to authenticity and keeps you warm at outdoor gatherings.

2. Soft Toy Version of E.T.

• Carry a Toy: Consider carrying a plush toy version of E.T. with you. This detail adds charm to your ET costume and provides a playful element.

3. Facial Makeup

• Enhancing the Look: For those feeling adventurous, consider using makeup to create subtle alien features on your face. This could include metallic face paint or other special effects to embody E.T.’s unique aura.

FAQ Section: Common Questions About E.T. Costumes

After completing your ET costume, you might have some questions. Here are answers to a few frequently asked questions regarding E.T. costumes:

Who was the guy in the E.T. costume?
The character of E.T. was primarily portrayed by actor and special effects artist Pat Welsh. However, there were also contributions from other actors for specific scenes, including Matthew DeMeritt, who performed in the costume.

Was E.T. a robot or a costume?
E.T. was brought to life through a combination of puppetry, animatronics, and a costume worn by actors. This collaboration allowed for realistic movement and expressions that captivated audiences.

What did E.T. dress up as on Halloween?
In the film, E.T. dresses as a ghost for Halloween, adding a lighthearted moment to the story. This scene has become one of the most memorable in film history, further connecting the character to Halloween festivities.

How to make an E.T. costume?
Creating an E.T. costume involves crafting a brown jumpsuit, making a distinctive headpiece with large eyes, and adding necessary accessories. Simple steps and creative involvement ensure everyone can participate in the fun.

Conclusion: Embrace the Magic of E.T. in Your Costume!

In conclusion, a well-crafted ET costume not only honors a beloved character but also allows for creativity and fun. By following this DIY guide, you can easily construct a memorable and authentic look that stands out at any event. Whether for Halloween festivities or themed parties, your costume choice will evoke nostalgia and delight among fans.

With the DIY E.T. Halloween costume ideas and the step-by-step instructions provided, you are well-equipped to embark on this creative journey. Enjoy the process, let your imagination run wild, and embrace the magic of E.T. as you transform yourself into this iconic character! Happy crafting!