Have you ever felt the call of the sky, the desire to soar through the air like graceful birds? If so, we have the perfect tutorial for you. In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to transform a simple pair of tights into a stunning set of clawed gloves, perfect for completing your avian-inspired costume. So, let’s spread our wings and dive into the world of DIY bird hands!
Getting Started: What You’ll Need
If you already have gloves, you can skip to step 12. Otherwise, here’s what you’ll need:
- Tights: We recommend using HUE Python Print Tights for a unique and stylish look. Make sure to get two pairs to match your arms and legs.
- Trace Your Hand: Start by tracing your hand onto a piece of paper. Any kind of paper will do, but cardboard works best. Use a ballpoint pen to trace your hand and then go over it with a sharpie to even out the lines.
Creating the Glove
Once you have your materials ready, follow these steps to bring your bird hands to life:
Step 1: Cut Out Your Hand Pattern
Using the traced hand as a guide, cut out the shape from the paper or cardboard. This pattern will serve as the foundation for your glove.
Step 2: Prepare the Cardboard Rectangle
Cut a separate rectangle of cardboard, ensuring it’s tall enough to cover all the finger details. The edges should be flush with the edges of your hand pattern. Remember to round the corners to prevent them from getting stuck in the tights.
Step 3: Position the Cardboard and Trace
Turn your tights inside-out and place the cardboard rectangle inside, ensuring it’s oriented correctly. This will stretch the tights to the correct width, allowing you to trace your hand pattern evenly.
Note: If your tights have a pattern, align the cardboard with the edge of the fabric pattern. If not, you can insert the rectangle all the way into the toe.
Step 4: Trace Your Hand onto the Tights
Using a chalk pencil, trace your hand onto one side of the tights. This will serve as a guideline for the subsequent steps.
Step 5: Baste and Cut
Remove the cardboard and flatten out the tights. Pin the two sides together and baste along the traced lines using a running stitch. Don’t worry about making it perfect or using matching thread; the basting stitch will be removed later.
Step 6: Cut Outside the Line
Carefully cut outside the drawn lines, making a single cut between the fingers. This will allow you to shape the glove properly.
Step 7: Stitch the Edges
Using thread that matches the fabric (not like me), whip stitch between the edge of the fabric and the line you drew. Remove the basting thread once you’re done.
Step 8: Coat the Stitching
To prevent the fabric from unraveling, coat all the stitching on both sides with a fabric sealant like Fray Check. Avoid using clear nail polish as it dries stiff and can be uncomfortable. Only use it as a last resort.
Step 9: Turn Right-Side Out
With all the sewing done, turn the glove right-side out. Take a moment to appreciate your progress and feel the excitement building within you.
Adding the Claws
Now that the glove is complete, let’s add some claws to give your bird hands that extra touch of authenticity.
Step 10: Create the Claws
For the claws, we recommend using sculpting epoxy such as Magic Sculpt or Apoxie Sculpt. Roll out a tapered tube and curve it into your desired shape and size. Remember to make a slightly larger claw for the thumb. Ensure that the base of each claw is flat, as this will provide comfort and prevent any discomfort.
Step 11: Sand and Paint
After shaping the claws, sand them if necessary and paint them in the color of your choice. Let your creativity shine!
Step 12: Attach the Claws
Using a tiny bit of hot glue, carefully attach each claw to the top of each finger. Fold the edges of the fabric over the claws to hide any raw edges, giving your gloves a polished appearance.
Step 13: Optional Finishing Touches
If you’re feeling extra creative, you can add a thin strip of craft foam in a matching color to cover any messy areas where the claws meet the fabric. This will give your gloves a tidier and more professional look.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Avian Alter Ego
With your clawed gloves complete, you’re now ready to spread your wings and embrace your avian alter ego. Fly high and embrace the freedom of the sky!
Was this tutorial helpful to you? If you used our techniques to create your own costumes, especially if you’re doing it professionally, consider supporting us by buying us a coffee through Ko-fi or Paypal. You can also find more costume WIPs and tutorials on our Patreon. Thank you for joining us on this creative journey!
