Spooky Yard Scene
Sit down with your family and plan a spooky scene for your yard or home. This is a fun way to spend time together and celebrate, and all ages can participate. You can conjure up a haunted forest or cemetery to scare trick-or-treaters.
Skip the Carving and Paint Pumpkins for Your Patch
Not everyone likes carving pumpkins. If you’re in that category, paint your pumpkins with funny faces. Or if you want more of a polished look, give this zigzag pumpkin tutorial a try.
Turn Your Garage Into a Haunted House
If you have kids, are having a party, or want to give trick-or-treaters a little extra scare, create a haunted house in your garage.
Make Those Pumpkins Last
Pumpkins are an “all fall” decoration. If you want to make your uncarved, unpainted pumpkins and gourds last longer, some suggest a bleach bath.
Decorate with Dollar Store Finds
Take your kids to your local dollar store and stock up on fun things like window clings, candle holders, etc. to decorate your house. This is also a fun way to decorate your office or workspace!
Get Spooky with Spider Webs
Spider web decor is inexpensive and fun. Drape your bushes and front door with webs and incorporate them into your home decor. Get plastic spider rings that easily attach to complete the look.
Let Your Pets Play a Part
Consider dressing up your pet to complement your Halloween decor. Make sure to consider their safety when choosing a costume. Remember, if they don’t like it, don’t make them wear it!
Aliens Are Scary too!
Why should typical Halloween monsters have all the fun? Have a UFO theme this Halloween! You can even create an alien landing pad in your yard!
Make Use of What You Have
You can repurpose old wood pallets to make a scary graveyard or empty cans to make lanterns. Check out your scrap bins for miscellaneous materials that would make cool decor this Halloween.
Break Out the Brooms
You might have an old broom in the garage or you can buy one that really looks like it belongs to a witch. Strategically placed, brooms can give the impression that a coven has descended on your home.
Stage Skeletons for Halloween
This time of year you can find skeletons at every store selling decor. Stage them around your house, chatting on the phone, sitting at the table or even hanging out on the front porch.
Get Crafty with your Windows
The windows are the eyes to your house. No, seriously, you can make them look like eyes! This is a great way to make your house look like it’s filled with monsters without having spend money on, and find storage space for, a whole cast.
FAQ
How can I make my Halloween decorations last longer?
You can make your Halloween decorations last longer by buying quality decorations and storing them well. Interior designer Anika Tarasiewicz of CRAFT by Anika says, “Invest in durable, neutral base pieces like black lanterns, faux pumpkins, or ceramic accents. Then layer in seasonal elements like ribbon or signage that can be swapped out. Store in sealed bins, and keep light-up items and the delicate decor pieces wrapped neatly to avoid damage.”
Are there any safety tips for decorating with lights and props?
Yes, it’s important to prioritize safety when decorating with lights and props. Tarasiewicz advises using timers to avoid overusing batteries or electrical outlets and warns never to overload a single outlet. “Keep cords away from water sources, walking paths, and anywhere curious kids or pets might tug or trip,” she adds. “When possible, elevate decorations instead of placing everything at floor level. This keeps them out of reach, reduces hazards, and adds dimension to your overall display.”
How can I make my Halloween decorations more interactive for guests?
Interactive Halloween decorations are even more fun and engaging. “Incorporate motion-activated features, scent like cinnamon sticks in outdoor displays, or interactive elements like themed photo areas or ‘choose your candy’ stations,” suggests Tarasiewicz. “Even a simple chalkboard sign where guests can leave a spooky message adds personality.”
About the expert
Anika Tarasiewicz is the founder and CEO of CRAFT by Anika, a full-service interior design firm based in Staten Island, NY. She specializes in residential and boutique commercial design, project management, holiday decorating, and professional organizing.
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