Make a character contest w/ DIY Star @loltocalover
Design and build an original character and a DIY star badge, then host a friendly contest to showcase costumes, stories, and creative performances.
Step-by-step guide to run a kids' character contest with a DIY star badge
How to create your own Gacha Character | Digital Art for kids | #doitwithdiy
Step 1
Pick a fun character name and write one short sentence about who they are.
Step 2
Draw your character on paper showing their outfit face and any cool details.
Step 3
Make a short list of the costume pieces and props you will need.
Step 4
Cut costume pieces from fabric scraps cardboard or old clothes using safety scissors.
Step 5
Attach the costume pieces to a shirt or outfit using glue tape or safety pins.
Step 6
Cut a star shape from cardboard to make your DIY star badge.
Step 7
Decorate the star badge with colours stickers and write your character name on it.
Step 8
Attach a ribbon or a safety pin to the badge so you can wear it.
Step 9
Build a small stage or backdrop from a cardboard box and masking tape.
Step 10
Make simple scorecards with three categories such as costume story and creativity.
Step 11
Invite friends or family to the contest and tell them the time and simple rules.
Step 12
Call up each performer one at a time to present their character for up to two minutes.
Step 13
Ask judges to use the scorecards to give points after each performance.
Step 14
Share photos or a short video of your character badge and contest on DIY.org and tag @loltocalover
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
I can't find safety scissors or fabric scraps—what can I use instead?
If you don't have safety scissors or fabric scraps for the 'Cut costume pieces' step, use blunt-end craft scissors or have an adult cut old T-shirts, felt, construction paper, or cereal-box cardboard as safe substitutes.
My costume pieces won't stay on the shirt—how can I fix that?
If pieces peel off during 'Attach the costume pieces,' reinforce them by using safety pins through fabric, applying fabric glue and letting it dry fully, or stitching small sections for extra hold.
How can I adapt the activity for younger or older children?
For preschoolers, pre-cut the pieces and use tape in the 'Attach the costume pieces' step with very short presentations and simplified scorecards, while older kids can cut with safety scissors, sew or hot-glue details, build a more elaborate 'Build a small stage' backdrop, and film performances for DIY.org.
What are some ways to make the contest more creative or personal?
To enhance the contest, personalize the cardboard star from 'Cut a star shape' with layered materials, glitter, or stickers, add a ribbon or badge clip as instructed, include LED tea lights or colored paper on your 'Build a small stage' backdrop for lighting, and create extra scorecard categories before sharing photos or videos tagged @loltocalover on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to run a kids' character contest with a DIY star badge
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Facts about character design and costume-making for kids
🎨 Many famous characters started as tiny doodles — designers often refine a simple sketch into a full costume, backstory, and name.
🎭 'Cosplay' comes from 'costume play' — fans not only wear costumes but sometimes act, pose, and perform as characters.
🌟 DIY star badges can be made quickly from cardboard, foil, and a safety pin or sticker backing — great for instant awards!
🧑🤝🧑 Hosting a friendly character contest helps kids practice storytelling, teamwork, and public speaking while having fun.
🎬 Costumes are only part of it — skits, theme songs, and little performances often steal the show in character contests.
