Gaara cosplay

[demonoflight.livejournal.com]

Hi there! I have come to you with a very special request.

A month from now, I'm going to a convention. And so, I decided to go as Gaara! Despite being female, tall, blonde and eyebrow-ed. XD But, see, I already have a Suna hitai-ate, and I love Gaara, and his first outfit is quite simple. So why not?

What I'm asking is for tips on how to make the costume work. I am especially looking for tips from people who have actually cosplayed Gaara before and therefore know what I'm going for. Specifically, I am mostly looking for a way to make the gourd and the gourd strap, and wondering how should I go through with the makeup, the love kanji and the hair. But really, any help would be appreciated.

Thank you in advance!