Quick-Make Wool Felt Costumes for Book Week (and Why They’re Brilliant!)

Good morning, lovely reader! Book Week is just around the corner, and I’m here to sprinkle a little magic (and a whole lot of wool felt charm) into your costume prep. Today, I’m teaming up with the fantastic Liz from Schooza Handmade, bringing you double the creativity and double the fun!

Liz’s recent blog “Sew Your Own Book Week Costume with These Easy Patterns” is a treasure trove of beginner-friendly sewing patterns that make costume stress a thing of the past. From felt animal dress-ups to golden crowns, Schooza has some beautiful, easy-to-follow ideas to spark your child’s imagination.

Let’s dive into why wool felt is the unsung hero of costume crafting—and explore some brilliant ideas to get you started.

Why Wool Felt Works Wonderfully for Quick Costumes

1. Softer Than a Cuddle, Sturdier Than a Sweatshirt
Wool felt has just enough structure to hold shape, yet it's soft and comfy for little ones to wear all day. Your kiddo will look adorable—and feel cozy, too.

2. No-Fray = No Fuss
Unlike many fabrics, wool felt holds its edges cleanly. That means simpler cutting and faster finishes—no overlocking or messy fraying to worry about!

3. Naturally Vibrant & Eco-Friendly
100% wool felt (my personal favourites!) bring rich colours and a thoughtful, sustainable choice to your crafting. Bonus points for being gentle on both the planet and your creative reputation.

4. Dash-Worthy Details
Whether you're adding ears, crowns, or tails, wool felt holds embroidery, gluing, and stitching with grace. It's a dream for last-minute tweaks or charm-adding accents.

Spotlight on Schooza’s Easy Patterns

Liz and the Schooza team have designed some truly clever sewing patterns to help busy parents and creative souls alike. Here are a few standout favourites:

• Animal Ears (PDF Sewing Pattern)—Perfect for quick Book Week costumes (think “Where the Wild Things Are” or “Elmer”), this tutorial is beginner-friendly and oh-so-cute.

• Cat Ear & Tail Set—Need a classic? This pattern has you covered. Pair it with a plain outfit for instant feline fun!

• Caterpillar Felt Crown (Free with Purchase)—Inspired by “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” this crown is whimsical, easy to sew, and doubles as a delightful playtime prop too.

These patterns are fantastic because they’re well-photographed, easy to follow, and require minimal sewing—just what you need for busy mornings before the parade.

My Wool Felt Costume Ideas: Fan-Favourites & Quick-Makes

1. Rainbow Fish Layers

• Inspired by “The Rainbow Fish,” layer multicoloured wool felt scales over a base tee or dress. You’ll only need scissors and glue—no sewing required!

• Why it works: Felt doesn't fray, scales are easy to cut, and the layers bring dazzling depth.

2. Gruffalo & Friends

• Inspired by the beloved “Gruffalo”—use brown felt for the body and add felt claws, horns, and eyes. Add finger-puppet versions of the mouse, fox, or owl for bonus storytelling fun.

• Quick tip: Use Schooza’s ear pattern to create the Gruffalo's ears with ease.

3. Woodland Creature Accessories

• Think deer antlers, bunny ears, or fox tails—so simple with felt. Attach to a brown hoodie or headband, and voilà!

• Stress-free styling: Pair with jeans or leggings for comfort and ease.

4. Crown or Wand Charms

• Use Schooza’s felt wand or crown patterns to give your little book character a dash of fairy-tale magic. And guess what? They’re wearable beyond Book Week!

• Bonus: Add a felt star or heart for personalized sparkle.

Putting It All Together: A Felt Lady × Schooza Combo

1. Pick your pattern—animal ears, crown, or wand.

2. Choose your story inspiration—Rainbow Fish? Gruffalo? Princess? Let their imagination lead the way.

3. Grab your wool felt in vibrant colours.

4. Cut, glue, or stitch (depending on your time and preference).

5. Layer or assemble onto an existing item of clothing—easy, reusable, and oh-so-charming!

6. Let your child’s personality shine—maybe add a felt pocket for a book or a handmade letter s/he loves.

Why This Strategy Wins Every Time

• Speed: Simple pieces + felt = quick results.

• Affordability: Use scraps or small amounts of wool felt.

• Reusability: Felt holds up—and looks just as magical next playtime.

• Stress-Free: Supports last-minute creativity without compromising delight.

So, lovelies, what book character will your little one become this Book Week? Will you be sewing up an animal-inspired crown, crafting a king or queen wand, or bringing a fishy friend to life?

I’m always here for cheering, tips, or sharing your adorable costume creations!

Yours Feltfully,
Candice