How do I make the vape screen look realistic?

Draw the battery and juice percentages on black poster board using bright neon paint pens, then cover the entire display with a shiny sheet of clear plastic acetate to mimic glass.

Is this costume easy to walk around in?

Yes, as long as you cut the box to end above your knees so your legs can move freely.

What tools do I need to build it?

You will need a utility knife, a hot glue gun, neon acrylic paint, paintbrushes, and strong duct tape.

AI-generated example

Geek Bar

Transform into the viral pop-culture disposable vape this Halloween.

The Geek Bar costume is a hilarious, viral pop-culture choice inspired by the incredibly popular disposable vape device. Perfect for college parties and group events, this look transforms you into a giant, colorful electronic cigarette. The costume centers around a wearable, brightly painted box complete with a top mouthpiece and the signature digital screen display.

Difficulty: Medium
Time: ~120 min
Budget: $20–50

See yourself as Geek Bar →What you need

Try it on

See yourself as Geek Bar

One clear photo of yourself; we render you in this costume — face untouched, full body, about 20 seconds.

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One render, $1. No account needed — if it fails you're not charged. Pricing.

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Want a different costume on this photo, or a whole group in costume? Open the Try-On Studio.

Geek Bar costume — Example look · AI-generated

You as Geek Bar

Result

What you need for a Geek Bar costume

Large rectangular cardboard box
A tall shipping box that fits over your torso, painted in a vibrant neon color like lime green, orange, or hot pink.
DIY: Use a recycled wardrobe box or appliance box cut down to size.
Amazon
Black EVA foam sheet
Thick craft foam used to construct the angled, wide mouthpiece at the top of the box.
DIY: Use cardboard painted matte black.
Amazon
Poster board
Black and white poster board to draw and cut out the digital screen graphics, battery levels, and rocket icon.
DIY: Print out a high-resolution image of the vape screen on standard paper.
Amazon
Clear acetate sheet
A glossy clear plastic sheet layered over the DIY screen to mimic a realistic glass LED display.
DIY: Use clear plastic packaging wrap or cellophane stretched tight.
Amazon
Nylon webbing straps
Heavy-duty black straps glued inside the box to wear the costume comfortably over your shoulders.
DIY: Use old backpack straps or thick rope.
Amazon
Black base layer clothing
A simple black long-sleeve shirt and matching pants to keep the focus entirely on the vape box.
DIY: Use any solid black t-shirt and jeans from your closet.
Amazon

How to put it together

1
Cut a head hole in the top of a large rectangular cardboard box, and two wide armholes on the sides.
2
Paint the entire exterior of the box in a vibrant, glossy neon shade to match your favorite vape flavor.
3
Roll and glue thick black EVA foam into a wide, angled mouthpiece shape, then secure it to the top of the box near the head hole.
4
Draw or print a large digital screen interface showing '99%' battery, '99%' e-liquid, and a small rocket ship icon on black poster board.
5
Glue the screen graphic to the front side of the box and cover it with a clear acetate sheet for a glossy, realistic finish.
6
Attach two adjustable nylon straps inside the box using strong duct tape or hot glue to distribute the weight across your shoulders.
7
Put on your black base layer clothing, slip the box over your head, and adjust the shoulder straps for a secure fit.

Makeup & hair

Keep makeup simple with a clean face, or add neon eyeliner that matches the color of your vape box. Style your hair in a sleek ponytail or bun so it does not block the mouthpiece on top.

Geek Bar for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: One person goes as the Geek Bar vape, and the other dresses as a giant cloud of smoke using white polyester fiberfill glued to a white outfit.
group: Have friends dress as different colored vapes to represent a variety of popular flavors.
kids: Create a smaller, lightweight version using a cereal box or shoe box with simple shoulder straps.
Plus size: Use a wider wardrobe box or utility box for a comfortable, roomy fit around the torso.

Tips

Cut the armholes extra wide so you can easily reach for drinks, snacks, and your phone at parties.
Keep the bottom of the box open and short enough (ending around mid-thigh) so you can sit down comfortably.
Add battery-operated LED fairy lights behind the screen cutout to make the digital display actually glow in the dark.
Use lightweight foam board instead of heavy cardboard if you plan to wear the costume for a long period.

Geek Bar costume FAQ

How do I make the vape screen look realistic?: Draw the battery and juice percentages on black poster board using bright neon paint pens, then cover the entire display with a shiny sheet of clear plastic acetate to mimic glass.
Is this costume easy to walk around in?: Yes, as long as you cut the box to end above your knees so your legs can move freely.
What tools do I need to build it?: You will need a utility knife, a hot glue gun, neon acrylic paint, paintbrushes, and strong duct tape.

Did you know? The Geek Bar Pulse became a viral sensation not just for its flavors, but for its full-screen display featuring a rocket ship animation when activated in 'Pulse' mode.