grim reaper costume

[jesamine.livejournal.com]

my boyfriend is dressing up as the grim reaper for my friends birthday party, which happens to be on Halloween. we'll [i'll] be making the costume with stuff from charity shops and stuff we already have here. i know it's a pretty straightforward costume to make...but we want it to be as realistic as possible. in particular i want to know how to make a scythe...
was just wondering if any of you have dressed up as a grim reaper or know anyone who has. if so, any tips, advice, photos or anything?
thanks!