(ARA) - As the leaves turn, children of all ages begin their quest for this year’s “it” Halloween costume. If you’re like most parents, this typically requires thinking ahead and spending an average of $26.52 for each costume, according to the National Retail Federation’s 2011 Halloween Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey. 

The same study says seven out of 10 Americans planned to celebrate Halloween, and $1 billion was spent on children’s costumes alone. With many families continuing to feel the economic pinch, an average of 18.9 percent of consumers will make costumes instead of purchasing them this year. What to do if you’re not an expert sewer or crafter? Here are some DIY ideas from the experts.

Milva Di Lorenzo, Fashion Design faculty for Miami International University of Art & Design, suggests, “Start by doing research online – if you’re even a little crafty, there are many unique, fun costumes you can create with little money and no sewing.”  She recommends the following websites: