Scary Skeleton Yard Props

by Deanna
(Oviedo, FL)

We make most of our Halloween props for the yard and that's quite a lot. We wanted to add some scary-looking skeletons and decided that we would make our own.

We started with two 5-foot plastic skeletons that cost about $15 each at Party City. The problems was that they were not the least bit scary.

To "gross them out" a bit, I gathered a large roll of white paper towels (no designs unless you want a floral skeleton), latex gloves and a bucket of carpet adhesive available at any home improvement store.

Rip the paper towels into strips and keep them nearby. As quickly as you can, soak the pieces in the adhesive and start creating "layers" of skin. I do at least two layers. Keep in mind you can also create bumps and lumps with glops. I also braid pieces to make it look like there are exposed tendons.

Keep in mind it will harden (and get super tacky and sticky in the process) so work quickly and make sure to "pose" your skeleton in the position you want it to remain in as joints will harden.

It needs to sit at least a day. Two or three is best. If need be, add touch ups and wait a couple more days. It doesn't have to look perfect; that's the beauty of it.

I then use a dark red or mahogany stain to make it looked burned or barbecued. Obviously you could use any shade you desire to get your special look. While wet I also glue a few tendrils of hair from a wig.

Let the stain dry and you're ready to go! The cage they sit in is simply wood tops and pvc bars painted black.

Easy, fun and inexpensive!