But you also don’t want to skip these items, either. Makeup and costumes can add lots of aesthetic value to your scene. Plus, if your leading lady comes down with a rash, you want to be able to cover it up.

Here are some ways to secure makeup and costumes on the cheap.

Make your movie BYOB. Instead of beverages, though, have cast members bring their own makeup and costumes. Chances are that your actresses have their own stash–budding actors might as well. Recently Dakota Fanning used her own wardrobe in the film Push; if your movie calls for clothing your actors already have, you can do the same.

Raid relatives’ stashes. If you have a sibling or other relative who is in theater or simply loves to dress up, see if you can borrow a few items.

Buy secondhand. Visit the local goodwill, thrift shop or consignment store for cheap clothing.

Use e.l.f. cosmetics. This company is famous for $1 makeup. They even have kits where you can get items for less if purchased in bulk.

Visit party supplies stores. They usually sell cheap makeup and costumes for Halloween and other occasions.

Borrow from school. If you are attending school and the theater department will let you, see if you can borrow or rent costumes cheaply from them.