Books and Resources to Start Strong
Starting a clown business requires more than just a red nose and oversized shoes. The right books will teach you performance technique, business fundamentals, and audience psychology. These resources give you the knowledge to build a sustainable operation from day one.
The Art of Clowning by Tristan ~
This book covers physical comedy, character development, and performance timing—the core skills that separate amateur entertainers from professionals. You’ll learn how to read an audience, adapt your act on the fly, and create memorable moments. Strong foundational technique directly translates to repeat bookings and referrals.
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Clown Classics: Stories, Gags, and Stunts by Peggy ChStrategic
A practical collection of tested routines, prop gags, and audience interaction techniques you can perform immediately. Rather than reinventing comedy from scratch, you gain a library of proven material to refine and personalize. This accelerates your time to a polished, bookable act.
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The Small Business Bible by Jeffrey Fox
Entertainment is entertainment, but running a clown business is running a business. This guide covers pricing, contracts, marketing, liability, and tax basics for solo entertainers. You’ll avoid costly mistakes in pricing your services too low, handling client disputes, and protecting your income.
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Steal the Show by Michael Port
This book teaches you how to structure performances, control pacing, and leave audiences satisfied and eager to recommend you. For a clown, pacing and audience control are everything—you’ll learn how to know when to hold a bit and when to move on. Strong performance structure leads to five-star reviews and return bookings.
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Equipment You Need
Clown equipment ranges from affordable basics to specialty props. You don’t need everything at once—start with the essentials that let you perform a complete act, then add specialty items as you refine your routines and take on more bookings. Most clowns spend $300–$800 on startup equipment; professionals with multiple characters or acts may invest $1,500–$3,000.
Costume and Makeup
- Clown suit or overalls: Bright, oversized clothing that reads from a distance. Typically polyester or cotton blend for easy cleaning.
- Oversized shoes: 2–4 sizes larger than your actual shoe size for exaggerated physical comedy.
- Wig: Colorful, curly, or distinctive hair to complete your character. Most clowns own 2–3 different wigs for variety.
- Makeup kit: Greasepaint or cream clown makeup in primary colors, white base, black liner, and setting powder. Include makeup brushes and sponges.
- Gloves: White cotton or synthetic gloves that extend up the forearms for a polished look.
- Nose: Traditional red foam or plastic clown nose. Many clowns buy several to match different characters.
Shop clown costumes on Amazon →
Shop clown makeup kits on Amazon →
Props and Gags
- Balloon pump and balloons: For balloon animals, hats, and interactive gags. Essential for birthday parties and events with children.
- Juggling balls or clubs: Teaches basic juggling. Foam or bean-filled balls are safer than hard props around children.
- Oversized props: Large spoon, fork, hammer, or flowers—exaggeration creates comedy through visual contrast.
- Magic tricks starter kit: Basic illusions, card tricks, or coin tricks. Kids love the mystery and surprise.
- Slip shoes or floppy shoes: Designed to come off easily during physical comedy without actual tripping hazards.
- Honking horn or bicycle horn: Classic sound effect for sight gags and audience engagement.
- Confetti or streamers: For grand entrances or celebratory moments during performances.
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Shop juggling balls on Amazon →
Storage and Transport
- Makeup bag or organizer: Keeps makeup, wigs, and small props protected and accessible.
- Prop bag or rolling suitcase: Durable container for oversized props, costumes, and equipment between gigs.
- Garment bag: Protects your costume from wrinkles, tears, and stains during travel.
- Clear plastic bins: For organizing and storing seasonal props, backup costumes, and character variations.
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Audio and Presentation
- Portable Bluetooth speaker: Plays entrance music, sound effects, or backing tracks during performances. 20–50 watts is sufficient for most events.
- Backup power bank: Keeps your phone and speaker charged during extended gigs.
- Microphone (optional): For larger events or outdoor performances where you need to project your voice beyond a small room.
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What to Buy First vs Later
Your first purchases should enable a complete, polished performance. Later additions enhance variety and professionalism but aren’t required to start booking gigs.
- First: Complete costume (suit, shoes, wig, gloves), makeup kit, balloon pump with balloons, 3–4 simple props (oversized items or magic tricks), storage bag, and portable speaker. This gets you stage-ready for $300–$500.
- After first 10 gigs: Second character wig, additional specialty props, microphone for outdoor events, backup costume pieces, and professional makeup organizer. These cost $200–$400.
- Later: Video projector, specialized magic sets, advanced juggling equipment, custom props matching your brand, professional lighting for larger venues. These are luxury upgrades that increase earning potential but aren’t necessary to start.
New vs Used Equipment
Where you buy matters. Makeup must be new and unused for hygiene reasons—never buy used makeup. Costumes should be new or thoroughly cleaned and inspected if secondhand. Oversized props, juggling balls, and storage containers are safe to buy used and often cost 40–60% less.
Search Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and local costume shops for used clown costumes and props. Test oversized shoes and costumes before buying to ensure proper fit and movement. Invest in new balloons and balloon pumps since they wear out quickly. Wigs can be used if the previous owner took care of them, but a new wig costs $15–$40 and lasts 2–3 years of regular use, so the cost savings of buying used is often minimal. Don’t skimp on quality gloves or shoes—cheap shoes cause foot pain during long gigs, and cheap gloves tear easily, breaking character during performances.
Where to Buy
- Amazon: Widest selection of costumes, makeup, props, balloons, and storage. Fast shipping and easy returns.
- Local costume shops: Try before you buy. Staff can offer fitting advice. Often carries professional-grade makeup and wigs.
- Specialty magic shops (online and in-person): Higher-quality magic tricks and illusions than general retailers. Staff understand performance needs.
- Party supply stores: Balloons, decorations, basic props, and sometimes costume pieces. Good for bulk balloon purchases.
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: Used costumes, props, and storage containers at discounts. Inspect items before meeting.
- Goodwill and thrift stores: Oversized clothing for DIY costume pieces, often under $5. Great for mixing and matching unique looks.
- Juggling and circus equipment retailers: Specialized juggling balls, clubs, and diablos. Better quality than novelty versions.
- Theatrical supply companies: Professional-grade makeup, wigs, and costumes. Higher price but longer-lasting quality.