D.I.Y. Mannequin on a Budget

         One problem that troubles many who create costumes is the lack of a good mannequin. This is largely due to the fact that a proper mannequin is fairly expensive. Beyond this, those products will very rarely match your measurements. One can order a custom mannequin, however, the cost skyrockets even further for those options.

        The solution to this dilemma? While it may not be a perfect answer, a very inexpensive mannequin can be made from PVC piping and couplers from your local hardware store. Most costumes will cover the PVC and a styrofoam head from a craft store can be added to improve the look. When on a budget, it is a great option to use in both the creation and display of costumes. All costs considered, the total price to create one of these was around $30. See below for the design I used in structuring my PVC mannequin.