COSTUME: Xena: Warrior Princess

This outfit took alot of sewing, but was definitely worth it! You don't need a sewing machine - I did it all by hand. I should point out I had a head start by already possessing over-the-knee suede boots and a black bodice.

Hair

Long black wig with fringe. It was too heavy around the face so I tied some back with a leather shoelace.

Chakram

Xena's best weapon! Cut out a ring from some strong cardboard (using plates as templates). Stick down silver foil on both sides then trimmed with craft knife. Draw out pattern onto gold paper. Hole-punch holes. Stick to chakram. Attach to bodice by twisting a thin U-shaped wire holder and sewing to bottom of bodice. You should then be able to slot the chakram into the holder.

Bodice

If you don't have a strapless bodice, you could probably adapt a black vest top. Trim with gold braid all around (top and bottom). Sew black ribbon to form a halter neck. Cut up synthetic belt (you can pull the backing off it to make it thinner) Add buckles to both ends and stitch in place to cover black ribbon.

The armour plating was quite difficult! Stick gold paper together so both sides show gold, then cut out swirly patterns. Score with Stanley knife then bend some pieces upwards. Arrange on bodice and then sew on at specific points using gold-coloured thread and cross stitch.

Armbands

Upper- cut strip of sheepskin and trim with braid. Stick on gold paper cut in a pattern. I tried to tie with ribbon but this didn't work so I recommend stitching elastic onto either side.

Lower- use leather from old handbag. Stitch elastic to top and bottom. (Bottom narrower so tight enough to go round wrist).

Skirt/Kilt