Make a No-Sew Superhero Cape from a Tee Shirt

It’s super easy to make a no-sew superhero cape. You just need a a few simple supplies, our cutting instructions, and our free printable. If you have a Cricut or other cutter we’ve even included an svg file. If you’re ready to get started, download our cape instructions or jump to instructions below.

instructions for making a no-sew superhero cape from a tee shirt

Four Reasons Kids Love to Dress Up as Superheroes

They feel empowered.

All kids experience feelings of powerlessness. Things like bedtime, sweets, and schoolwork are usually non-nonnegotiable. Superheroes have the power to control their own lives and those around them. Dressing up like a superhero gives a child the power to assert themselves during pretend play.

It makes them feel like heroes.

In a world filled with scary situations, a child can become the one who conquers evil. Superhero cosplay gives a child an opportunity to save the world. When dressed as a superhero, they can vanquish any monster or bad guy. What’s better than feeling like a hero? Feeling like a superhero!

They love to play “make pretend.”

In the world of a superhero there are no boundaries. In this pretend world if a child can imagine it, they can do it!

Instructions for Making a No-Sew Superhero Cape from a Tee Shirt

Instructions to cut a shirt to make a cape

Supplies:

  • Tee Shirt (usually a larger size is better)
  • Felt Square
  • Fabric Sheers
  • Printable Pattern or SVG File
  • Fabric Glue
  • Stapler (if cutting by hand)

Cut the tee shirt:
Use the image as a guide. You’ll be keeping the neck band of the tee shirt intact and cutting off the sleeves. Discard front and sleeve.

Cut one of our superhero designs:

To cut by hand: Print the PDF file and place the printable on the felt square. Staple around the outside of the design. Cut through both the paper and the felt.

Printable PDf

To cut by machine: Download our SVG file. Size if necessary to 8” high and cut according to machine instructions.

Printable PDF

Glue the felt shape to the back of the cape.

Where Can You Donate Your No-Sew Superhero Capes?

  • Enchanted Makeovers Capes for Kids collects and distributes handmade capes to children living in shelters.
  • Smiles with Style provides hospitalized children with small makeovers and a chance to play dress-up
  • Contact your local family shelter and children’s hospital about donating superhero capes.

DIY to Donate

Leave a Comment