One of my superpowers is the ability to whip up a costume or craft at a moment’s notice using only what we have on hand. Our children, who sometimes failed to remember a deadline until the night before it was due, liked to test this skill.  

The boys would usually remember these assignments just as Gerard and I were getting ready to relax and send them off to bed. Realizing that we had an hour or two of project homework ahead, the husband would expound on the virtues of planning while I would head downstairs to my craft stash.

Now, as an empty-nester, I kind of miss those challenges, but I remember the stress that late-night homework can bring. I put together this pattern with that in mind. I hope it will be useful should you find yourself in need of a beard for a last-minute costume.

You can craft this whimsical beard and mustache combo from felt for wear as a costume piece or, it can be cut from paper to use as a photo booth style prop. You can shrink, enlarge, widen, or narrow the pattern to fit nearly any face. 

Standard size felt squares, and letter size paper means that you’ll probably have what you need on hand or that you can find it quickly. Add ribbon, yarn, cording or elastic for wear. Add a wavy craft stick or dowel for a fun and fast photo prop.

If you are in a serious hurry, just use the base with or without the mustache topper. Don’t have time to cut or glue all the whirly-gigs? No problem, just draw them on with a marker. 

Inspiration for this project may be last-minute homework assignments, but this piece can work well for other costume needs for children and adults.