It's time to start practising that maniacal mad scientist laugh. Mwuah-ha-ha!

Despite our best intentions – and the constant reminders from little ones who are looking forward to a big candy haul – sometimes Halloween can sneak up and surprise us. But don't let a looming deadline scare you: These fast, affordable and easy costumes are a real treat! Start with a T-shirt to fit your child (or yourself), add a few craft store standards, accessorize as much or as little as you like, and you're good to go.

Take a look at a larger image of the finished mad scientist costume.

You need:
• White T-shirt
• Black and silver fabric paint
• 7 large black buttons
• Pencil, ruler, marker, scrap cardboard and scrap paper

To make:
1. Lay T-shirt on paper-covered work surface and insert scrap of cardboard between front and back of shirt.

2. Referring to photo for placement, use pencil and ruler to draw faint line diagonally across collar and partway down chest; pivot and draw line to bottom of T-shirt, parallel to side seam. Using pencil and ruler and referring to photo, mark dots on shirt to indicate placement of buttons. Using marker, print mad scientist name on scrap paper; place under front of T-shirt on cardboard.

3. Working from left to right, trace letters of mad scientist name in black fabric paint. Place small dot of silver paint on each button mark; place button on top of paint and press to adhere. Trace line from collar to hem with black paint. Let dry completely before removing cardboard.

Designer's notes:
A pair of black pants, some wildly coloured rubber gloves and a pair of safety goggles are all your little mad scientist will need to complete his costume.

This story was originally titled "Quick & Easy Costumes" in the October 2010 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!