Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

by Lynn

How did you make your costume?

The front and back costumes of Willy and the Oompa Loompa are "human" costumes just cut at the right spots to be able to put on Poco. Ironing board straps are my favorite tool and do great for holding pants up, hats on, etc.

The chocolate vat is re-purposed cardboard from last year's costume, just painted and altered as needed. Rest of the props are cardboard, mailing envelopes, and other around-the-house items. The brick backdrop is from plastic tablecloths.

The Oompa Loompa's shows are old shoes of mine where I cut the toe off, spray painted and added the pop-pom. The Oompa Loompa head is Styrofoam, using an orange stocking and cotton for the eyebrows. Willy is holding the "Golden Ticket" and the Oompa Loompa is holding a ladle to stir the chocolate in the vat.

How much did it cost (approximately is OK)?

I started watching for sales last year and collecting items as I found them. Probably in the range of $100 if you count the paint, paper ink, etc..

Where did you wear it?

This year Poco just wore it for the photo shoot. Normally we travel to an in-person show but he is rehabbing from a suspensory injury and I didn't want to make him ride in the trailer for 4 hours. It will be shared with his fan club who have come to expect his costumes for various occasions. Plus we'll be entering several virtual contests, and it will be the October photo on our 2025 calendar.

How did people react?

Only a few have seen it since it is not yet Halloween, but those that did loved it!

What is your horse’s name and how did it react?

My horse's name is Poco. He doesn't mind any of this dress-up activity and takes it all in stride. He's a low key guy.



Comments for Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

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Nov 01, 2024
Co-Worker Comments
by: Lynn Witmer

I shared this costume with several co-workers (at my 'real' job). One replied that his wife, who is a horse person, dubbed Poco the "Unbothered King". Another indicated that he was just about to contact me to ask if we did a costume this year when my email came through. He deemed it "Incredible Work".
Another stated that it will be a great candidate for Poco's 2025 calendar for the month of October (Poco stars in a desk top month-view calendar each year😊).

Nov 01, 2024
Pure Imagination!
by: Tammy H

A truly inspired and imaginative costume.
Zippity Doo!



Nov 01, 2024
Grandson Extraordinaire!
by: Joan Mattern

Poco is my "Grandson". I shared his photos with several of my friends and they were all blown away by yet another awesome costume. They all commenced about what a special horse he is. They always look forward to hearing about his latest endeavors and seeing his pictures. I know my daughter and son-in-law put a lot of work into his costumes and loves that horse.

Nov 01, 2024
What a great costume
by: Jen

What an amazing costume!! Poco looks amazing!! I love how two characters were brought to life!!

Oct 31, 2024
Poco is the best
by: Terry Miller

Lynn never disappoints with her costumes for Poco. He loves to be apart of the holidays with fantastic costumes. Poco is making me hungry for chocolate now with this costume!!! ❤️

Oct 31, 2024
AMAZING
by: Danielle

Poco looks amazing as usual. Even with an injury, he still enjoys the costumes. Great job once again on the costume.

Oct 29, 2024
So Cute!
by: Sydney from HorseCrazygirls.com

I just love your costumes Lynn! Poco is so sweet. I hope he heals quickly and loves the attention in the meantime.

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