How is Halloween face makeup better than a mask? Let me count the ways. Makeup is safer because masks block vision. Makeup is more comfortable because masks itch and scratch. Makeup is more original because you won't see another you anywhere. And makeup is more fun because you can make it yourself with these three recipes for blood, bruises and paintable face colors. To ease the time crunch, the makeup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

13 Pumpkin Avenue is a good place to jumpstart your creative juices. More than 50 make-at-home costumes are illustrated and described, but many of the ideas need some filling in. Best bets are the wacky costumes, such as Grapes in a Bag (cut two holes in the bottom of a clear trash bag, step into it and then fill it with purple balloons) or Tea Bag (made with white fabric and dried leaves.) There's also a page of ideas for trick-or-treaters in wheelchairs (drape an orange trash bag over you and the chair to become a pumpkin) and a recipe for homemade makeup.