Pattern Fairy Wings Costume

Although you can buy them at drugstores and costume shops, it's much nicer to create something individual and use a pattern for a fairy wings costume. Whether for Halloween, a play or just for fun, fairy wings are delightful.

Fairy wings can take any shape or style

In any fairy costume, the wings are usually going to be the most important detail, as they are what distinguishes someone as a fairy. This is often less true in the darker or more elaborate costumes that might be seen in Cosplay or Faerie events, wherein wings might not even be included. Although when they are, the emphasis is on an inventive style.

Before you start shopping or searching for a pattern to make the wings, consider the look of the costume overall. A more modern, simple fairy could demand smaller, unstructured wings. A dark fairy might have wings with a slightly sinister bent. Are the wings transparent? Do they glitter? Do they flap? Lots to be sure of before you get to work.

Of course, you also want to factor in your own crafty abilities. Most fairy wings are not difficult to construct, although they do require some basic craft skills.

All the standard pattern makers have patterns for fairy wings costumes. They come in a number of shapes and materials and can even be more like butterfly, dragonfly or angel wings. At any pattern shop, you will find dozens of options.

For a more theatrical or vintage look, you may want to investigate Cosplay patterns at Cosplay, which has forums and advice on any number of wings, including how to create wings that move.

You can also scour the Internet for free patterns, as these are available. Study them carefully before you begin, as you may find them confusing. You should also do a paper or muslin mock-up before you start cutting up organza or chiffon.

You don't have to be an experienced sewer or designer to make a pattern for a fairy wing costume, although a steady hand and creative mind help. You should start by searching books of pictures representing a wide variety of fairies and choose the wings that best suit what you're trying to create. The simplest wings will effectively be teardrop-shaped, with wire frames around which the fabric is affixed and stitched or even glued. Attach elastic straps to put over the shoulder and you're done.

Whatever shape of wing you choose – and you may prefer to have an upper and lower wing on each side – take your time in pattern construction. You can buy heavy duty paper for making patterns at better fabric shops. Measure carefully and work in pencil until you are satisfied. Again, make a mock-up before you use your actual fairy wing fabric.

Bear in mind that if the wings are for a child, you want to be more careful of size, weight, sharp ends and flexibility. Children love to wear fairy wings, but they should be able to do so with ease.

If you can't find the pattern you want and don't feel confident making the wings yourself, there are a number of resources for having wings made. Again, start with the Cosplay forums, as they will nearly always find something local and convenient. You can also try specialists such as Enchanted Costumes, which make costumes for theatre, Mardi Gras, major events and portrait sessions. You can get any number of costume styles and accessories, including fairy wings, wands, headpieces, ears and makeup. For a very special event, it's definitely worth the investment.

Finally, if you're in a hurry and just need something simple, remember that wings can have a multitude of looks and styles. Two pieces of flowing chiffon can be attached to each shoulder, and tied around wrists, to create lovely, simple and pattern-free wings.

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