I couldn’t stop with the donut projects: a donut piñata, donut balloons, and now a donut costume. Food-based costumes are some of the best, and donuts are at the top of that list. This giant donut costume is straightforward to make if you can handle a can of spray paint and a hot glue gun. If you want to go all-in on the theme, you can also make a matching donut-hole treat bucket. Here’s how to make a fun, wearable donut costume that’s great for Halloween or parties.
Supplies you’ll need:
Pool inner tube
Spray paint (one color for the donut base, one for the frosting, plus several colors for sprinkles)
Foam hair curlers (for sprinkles; inexpensive and lightweight)
Plastic pumpkin treat bucket (to convert into a donut hole bucket)
Poster board
Twine and ribbon (for straps)
Hot glue and glue gun (low heat recommended)
Painter’s tape
Tarp or protective surface for painting
Note: While acrylic paint can work in some cases, I recommend using spray paint for the smooth, even finish shown here.
Step 1 — Paint the inner tube: Inflate the tube and wrap painter’s tape around the valve to protect it. Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated space and lay down a tarp or other protective surface. Spray paint the entire tube one side at a time and allow it to dry completely.
Step 2 — Paint the frosting: Cut a circle from poster board slightly larger than the tube’s center hole and place it inside the top of the donut to block the center while you spray. Use your chosen frosting spray color to paint the top edge. For a cleaner frosting line, use a curved scrap of poster board as a moving guide along the outer edge while spraying. Allow the frosting layer to dry fully.
Step 3 — Make the sprinkles: While the donut dries, spray paint the foam hair curlers. Placing them in a shallow box helps keep them steady as you spray. Let them dry and touch up any missed spots.
Step 4 — Attach sprinkles: When all painted pieces are dry, use hot glue (on a low setting if possible) to glue the foam curlers onto the frosting in a random sprinkle pattern.
Step 5 — Make it wearable: To turn the painted inner tube into a wearable costume, tie a piece of twine around the valve and attach a long piece of ribbon to serve as a shoulder strap. Wear the ribbon messenger-style for a comfortable fit. For older children or adults, you can adapt the strap to be worn around the neck or waist, but avoid creating choking hazards for small children—safety first.
Step 6 — Donut-hole treat bucket: Spray paint the plastic treat bucket the same color as the donut base, let it dry, and hot glue on foam curlers to mimic sprinkles. Replace the original plastic handle with a length of ribbon for a cohesive look.
That’s it — your donut costume and matching treat bucket are ready. Picture a group of friends all wearing different-colored donuts for a playful, memorable costume squad. It’s lightweight, colorful, and perfect for trick-or-treating or themed parties.
All photos by Studio DIY
If you love donut projects, there are plenty more ideas to explore. Whether you make one donut or an entire entourage, this costume is a fun, easy way to celebrate the sweetest treat.
Previously: Quinn’s macaron costume — another food-inspired look and proof that food costumes are endlessly entertaining.