If you want a costume that’s as easy to put on as a feather boa, this DIY candy necklace idea is perfect. It’s quick, playful, and a great way to repurpose old pool noodles into something festive for Halloween or any costume event.
Pool noodles that have seen better summers can be transformed with a little paint and a few simple cuts. The result looks like an oversized candy necklace that’s lightweight, fun, and easy to wear.
This project also adapts well to couples or group costumes. Pair the candy necklace with a “sweet tooth” sign or other candy-themed outfits for a coordinated look that’s instantly recognizable.
Supplies You’ll Need
For the Candy Necklace:
- Pool noodles — wider styles work best, but use what you have.
- Spray paint in white, yellow, turquoise, and pink/salmon.
- Box cutter or large kitchen knife for cutting the noodles.
- Scissors.
- Rope or sturdy cord for stringing the pieces.
For the Sweet Tooth:
- Pencil for tracing the tooth shape.
- Foam board to cut the tooth from.
- Scissors or an X-Acto knife for detailed cutting.
- Elastic or ribbon for straps to wear the tooth sign.
- Optional: a pretend lollipop as a prop.
How To Make A Candy Necklace Costume
- Use a box cutter or a sharp knife to slice your pool noodle into rings about 2–3 inches wide. Work on a safe surface and cut slowly to keep the edges neat.
- Trim the outer edge of each ring at a slight diagonal to create the rounded ridge that mimics candy beads.
- Divide the rings into color groups and spray paint each group a different color. Paint one side, allow it to dry, then flip and paint the other side and the edges. Let all pieces dry completely before handling.
- String the painted rings onto the rope in a random order — candy necklaces rarely follow a strict pattern. Continue until the necklace reaches the length you want, then tie the ends of the rope securely.
- Wear it loosely around your neck or arms like a boa. For a more fixed look, tack one or two of the beads to your shirt with a few stitches; you can remove the thread later to return the outfit to normal.
How To Make A Sweet Tooth Costume
- Sketch a tooth shape onto your foam board, making it large enough to be visible when worn.
- Cut out the shape. An X-Acto knife works well for the top layer; go back over the cut to remove the bottom layer cleanly.
- Attach elastic or ribbon to each side of the tooth with hot glue or strong tape so it can be worn over the shoulders or around the neck like a sign.
More DIY Candy Costume Ideas
- Rock Candy Costume — use crushed or faceted materials to mimic crystal candy.
- Ring Pop Costume — create an oversized gemstone on a cardboard or foam base.
- Bubblegum Costume — go for a pink palette and playful accessories.
- Gumball Machine Costume — combine a clear dome look with colorful round props.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
Have you tried making a food-themed costume before? They’re some of the most fun and memorable looks. Enjoy crafting your candy costume and happy trick-or-treating!