How to Make Your Own Custom LARP Cloak and Hood for Rogues

Creating a Handmade LARP Cloak for Your Rogue Character

Live action roleplaying (LARP) has seen a surge in popularity in recent years. As more people get into this immersive hobby, the demand for detailed, realistic costumes has also increased. One essential piece of attire for many LARP characters is a dramatic, flowing cloak. For rogue characters in particular, a dark hooded cloak adds to the aura of mystery and stealth.

Crafting your own LARP cloak allows you to customize the look and fit. With some basic sewing skills and the right fabric and pattern, you can create a one-of-a-kind cloak for your rogue character. Read on for tips on how to make your own DIY LARP cloak with a hood that will help you look and feel like a true denizen of your LARP world.

Pick Your Cloak Fabric

The fabric you choose for your LARP cloak will impact the overall look, feel and functionality. Heavier fabrics like wool blend coat fabrics or upholstery fabrics will create a cloak with dramatic draping that holds its shape well. Lighter fabrics like cotton sateen or cotton blends will result in a more billowy, flowing cloak. Stay away from silky fabrics that could catch and tear easily.

The color of your fabric also contributes to the overall vibe. Dark shades like black, deep red, forest green or navy blue are fitting choices for a rogue's cloak. Solids or simple patterns work best rather than busy prints that could distract from your character. Select a matte finished fabric rather than anything too shiny to complement the mystery of your rogue.

Find a Cloak Pattern

The pattern you use will determine the shape, length, hood style and other details of your LARP cloak. Look for a pattern designed specifically for cloaks and capes rather than just making adjustments to a coat pattern. This will ensure the right dramatic shape.

For a LARP rogue, stick to cloak patterns that feature an oversized hood. You may also want extended length that falls below the knees or even to the ground. Other pattern details like slits up the sides or front openings can also add flair. Purchase a pattern you like or modify an existing cape pattern to create your perfect LARP cloak design.

Cut Out Your Fabric

Once you have your pattern and fabric ready to go, it's time to cut out the cloak pieces. Lay out your fabric in a single layer on a large table or flat surface. Pin the pattern pieces in place and carefully cut around each piece. Cut the fabric as precisely as possible, leaving the minimum seam allowance specified on the pattern.

Be sure to cut two copies of each cloak piece from your fabric. One will be for the lining. The lining helps the cloak hold its shape and provides a polished interior surface. For the outer layer, follow any pattern instructions for placing pieces on fabric with nap or directional prints.

Sew the Outer Cloak

After cutting out both the outer cloak fabric and lining fabric pieces, you can begin assembling the outer layer of the cloak. Sew the outer pieces together at the shoulders and sides as directed by the pattern instructions, right sides facing in. Press the seams open or to one side.

Finish any raw edges on your seams to prevent fraying and give a clean look inside your cloak. If your fabric frays a lot, you may want to serge the seams. Or, you can trim them with pinking shears and use an overcast stitch or seam sealant. Leaving the lining unsewn for now, this completes the construction of the outer cloak shell.

Create the Lining

Make the lining by repeating the same sewing process you used for the outer shell. Follow the pattern instructions to stitch the lining fabric pieces together at the shoulders, sides, and hood. Press the lining's seams open or to one side just as you did for the outer shell. The unsewn cloak lining will now be a mirror image of the outer shell.

Join Outer Cloak and Lining

Now it's time to put the cloak outer shell and lining together. Start by folding over the raw edge of the outer cloak's front opening 1/2 inch and press. Do the same along the front opening edge of the cloak lining. This folded edge will encase the raw edges once assembled.

Next, place the cloak outer shell and lining with wrong sides facing and the raw edges aligned. The right side of the outer fabric should be facing out once finished. Pin the layers together around the front opening. Sew around the front edges using a 1/2 inch seam allowance to join the outer and lining.

Begin at the base of the front opening and stitch up one side, around the top of the hood, then down the other side. Leave an 8-10 inch opening along the bottom edge for turning the cloak right side out later.

Finish the Cloak Edges

The lower hem and front opening of your LARP cloak may be raw edges at this point. For a professional look, finish them off with your method of choice. Folding the raw edge under 1/2 inch and topstitching is a quick and easy option. For a more polished finish, you may want to line the edges with fold over lining or binding tape.

Next, trim any seam allowance at the base of the hood and use an overcast or zigzag stitch to prevent fraying. Your cloak is almost ready to wear!

Turn the Cloak and Finish Details

Through the opening you left in the bottom seam, gently pull the cloak right side out so the outer fabric is on the exterior and the lining peaks through inside. Use a point turner or chopstick to neatly poke out the corners.

Press the cloak well all over, paying extra attention to the front opening and hood. Topstitch close to the edge all the way around the front opening for a crisp finish. Hand sew the opening in the bottom seam closed.

At this point, your LARP cloak is complete! Try it on with your rogue costume and see how the dramatic hood and billowing fabric help you take on the character. Add any additional trim, tassels, fastenings or other embellishments to take your DIY LARP cloak to the next level.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your LARP Cloak

A handmade, customized LARP cloak is a worthwhile investment for fully immersing yourself in your rogue roleplay. Follow these tips to enhance your cloak and get your money's worth at your next LARP event or renaissance fair:

Weatherproof It

Treat your cape with a fabric waterproofing spray to help it withstand getting wet in any outdoor LARP action. This will help keep you comfortable and prevent damage to the fabric.

Store It Properly

Hang your cloak on a wide, sturdy hanger when not in use. This preserves the shape and prevents creases. Keep it in a garment bag or closet away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Act the Part

Use your cloak as a dramatic prop in your roleplay. Swirl, flourish and position it to enhance your rogue's stealthy movements and mysterious aura.

Personalize It

Add patches, Pins, ribbons, trim or amulets that complement your character. This personal touch makes your handmade cloak truly unique.

Protect It

While in costume, be cautious around fires, rough terrain, grabbing hands etc. to avoid damaging your custom cloak. A damaged or soiled cloak will diminish its dramatic effect.

Every well-dressed rogue needs a signature LARP cloak. Creating your own allows you to match your unique persona. With the right fabric, pattern and detailing, you can craft a cloak that embodies your character. Get creative with your DIY LARP cloak to fully inhabit your rogue roleplay.

FAQs

What kind of fabric should I use?

Good fabric choices include wool blends, upholstery fabrics, cotton sateen, or cotton blends. Avoid silky fabrics that could tear. Dark solids or simple patterns work best.

How do I figure out the cloak dimensions?

The pattern you choose will determine the length and shape. Look for a cape or cloak pattern specifically. For a floor-length rogue cloak, size your pattern accordingly.

Is it hard to sew a lining?

Adding a lining is not difficult. Just cut out two sets of cloak pieces, sew both outer and lining shells separately, join along the front openings, then turn right side out.

What's the best way to finish the edges?

For a clean look, fold over and topstitch the raw edges of the hem and front opening. Or apply pre-made lining or binding tape to encase them.

How can I embellish my cloak?

Personalize your LARP cloak with patches, pins, trim, amulets etc. You can also add ties, clasps or fastenings to adjust fit.