This year, I'm using a vast array of goodies, some of which are exceedingly simple to make. Enjoy!
Indoor Decor
It doesn't take long to assemble a nice Halloween room or two inside your house. Here, we only have to be concerned with how an object looks (meaning scary, creepy, or disgusting). Any number of materials and techniques can be used to great effect.
Macula Art has some really cool papercraft monsters to assemble and place around your home for holiday flair. All you have to do is print, cut out the pieces, and put together a great looking creature for your table, mantel, or wherever. Be aware however, these can take longer to assemble than you realize (it did for me, at least).
Follow this Instructables tutorial to create a Bathroom Murder Scene. Having a Halloween party? Use this guide to include the bathroom in the fun (which, given the room's requirements, can be difficult). It's simple, inexpensive, and very effective.
Need a last minute decoration? No problem! For those looking for something really simple and quick, try these Trash Bag Spiderwebs. They actually don't look too bad, and can be used indoor or outdoor. Best of all, you only need some scissors, trash bags, and maybe some experience making paper snowflakes.
Outdoor Pieces
Decorating outside can be a little more difficult to achieve without the proper time. Here, we have to make certain everything looks good, but also that it can withstand the effects of wind and weather. Fortunately, these considerations are easy to overcome, and do not hamper our creative spirit much. Here are some quick outdoor projects:
I found this super-cool idea for easy Halloween Lanterns. Basically, you take four picture frames, glue them into a square (each forming a wall), place some spooky images against the glass with the backings removed, and light them from the inside. It hits all of the requirements for this type of project - cheap, easy, customizable, and effective.
This year, I made a Trash Bag Tarantula for the front lawn. Mine looks a little less cutesy than the one in the tutorial. I like to have things a little scarier, so I added a few finishing touches of my own. The general idea is the same however, and it's been a nice addition to my Halloween arsenal.
Alright, here's the easiest idea yet. If you don't have a lot of yard space, or just don't have much time, take a look at this Spooky Wolf Eyes idea on instructables. Seriously, a wire clothes hanger and some reflective tape is all you'll need. It's perfect for areas with bushes and trees.
Music and Lighting
Of course, much of Halloween is simply creating the mood. Playing themed music can get people into the spirit of the season without much work, and a little colored lighting goes a long way. Don't forget to utilize these tricks as well for creating your haunts. Give me some red-tinted light and the Halloween soundtrack in the background, and I'm already looking around every corner with worried hesitation.
For more ideas, see my previous Halloween posts!
Budget Halloween Decor
DIY Halloween Decorations
