I might sound like a broken record at this point, but Halloween is my favorite holiday.  It is such a fun time and our annual mommy and me Halloween costume reveal is always a post I look forward to writing.  Over the years we have done some fun family costumes and last year, was no exception.  Since my son is a huge hamburger fan there was really no question about what his costume was going to be.  And the best part? It’s super simple to make! So, today, I am excited to show you just how easy it was.  

Without further ado, here’s part 1 of our 3-part DIY Cardboard Food Themed Halloween costume series.  

Step 1: Gather materials

Medium cardboard box

Scissors

Box cutter

1 can of black paint

1 can of brown spray paint

1 can of red spray paint

1 can of green spray paint

1 can of yellow spray paint

Paintbrush

Glue gun

Glue sticks

Step 2: Draw the hamburger bun*

(*Side note: I forgot to photograph the very beginning portion of this tutorial but it’s really pretty easy).  

First, take your piece of cardboard box and draw the shape of a hamburger bun.  The size really depends on your child so measure appropriately.  Then, follow the same process to create a second one so that your hamburger has a front and back side.  

Step 3: Figure out the toppings

Next, you need to figure out what toppings you want to include in your DIY cardboard hamburger Halloween costume.  Then you will need to draw out these items on another piece of cardboard*.  In our case, we chose to add cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sesame seeds.  #classic

(*Side note: Once you have drawn and cut out one of your toppings, you can use it as a template to trace the other ones).  

Step 4: Cut

Now, cut out your hamburger bun and toppings using scissors or a box cutter.  

Step 5: Paint

From there, it’s time to spray paint! 

Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area and give each cardboard piece at least two coats.  Then, set aside and let the paint dry completely.   

Step 6: Assemble the costume

Once all the pieces are covered in paint and completely dry, you can assemble your DIY cardboard hamburger Halloween costume.  And for these next few steps, all you are going to do is to glue everything in place with a hot glue gun.  

First, let us start off with the tomatoes.  

Next, move on to the lettuce.

Then, add on the cheese.  

And let’s not forget about the sesame seeds on the bun!  

Of course, a spooky hamburger costume isn’t complete without cobwebs and spiders!* This is such a great way to add a bit of a haunted look to this iconic treat.  After all, it is Halloween!   

(*Side note: I had envisioned this hamburger costume to be a bit more eerie, in a cute way of course, complete with flies and glow in the dark black mold.  As you can see, it is nowhere near that.  Turns out, I was asleep at the wheel and made an error of using actual hamburger colors instead of a yucky greenish hue.  Unfortunately, I ran out of time to repaint the costume and made do with what we have.  Thus, resorting to cobwebs and spiders). #theresalwaysnextyear

Step 7: Add straps

Lastly, you need to add straps.  

We used duct tape, but you can use a ribbon or fabric strap – you decide! 

To do this, have your kiddo try the hamburger costume on first so you can see where to place the straps and how long to make them.  Afterward, cut four pieces of duct tape with one pair 2 inches shorter on both sides than the other.  Attach one longer length duct tape to a shorter one making sure to leave the ends open.  Then, attach the open end of the duct tape to the front and back of costume and repeat on the other side. Voila! 

So, tell me, what is your kid dressing up as this Halloween? 

For more DIY cardboard Halloween costume ideas:

DIY Cardboard Train Engine Halloween Costume

DIY Cardboard Coal Car Halloween Costume

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you).  

**Additionally, some items linked above are not the exact item shown because it is either old or sold out, but I linked similar items for those that are unavailable.