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Make a SPOOK-TACULAR Halloween display
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items Every Halloween, I add more and larger tombstones to my outdoor display. Here's how to make 3 different styles of tombstones.
Sections
5
Supplies needed
How to construct main tombstone body
Painting
Additional embellishment supplies - optional
How to install
Supplies needed
These are the basic tools and supplies used to make this tombstone.
You can definitely use a serrated knife, but this tool makes it easier.
4 in 1 Foam Cutter Set with Digital Controller
You need a mask or respirator when using a heat cutting tool. The fumes are strong.
RZ Mask M3 - Reusable Dust Mask - 3-Strap Design
This respirator can be used when using the heat cutting tool.
3M White Reusable P100 Adult Medium Sanding Safety ...
Foam board is the main supply item. You can also use packaging foam from items you have purchased to save on costs.
STYROFOAM R-5, 1-in x 4-ft x 8-ft Residential Sheathing ...
I have found that the clear Gorilla Glue works best to adhere items to the styrofoam. It's weather resistant, too. The brown glue also works, but can be more visible.
Gorilla Clear 3.75-fl oz Liquid Extreme Condition ...
Outdoor craft paint is important. I used multiple colors - black, gray, white, and some red.
FolkArt Outdoor Acrylic Craft Paint, Coal, 8 fl oz
Sponges will help you get a textured look.
Hello Hobby 5 Pack Synthetic 1" Craft Brown Sponges
Sponge brushes make it easy to apply the paint the the overall surface of the styrofoam.
Sponge brush
Small artist's brushes will allow you to add details to the tombstone.
Artist brushes
You can use whatever marker you would like, but these are my favorite. They also have a clear end, so you can see when they are running out.
TUL® Permanent Markers, Fine Point, Silver Barrel, Black Ink, Pack Of 12 Markers
The length and quantity of pipe depends on the size tombstone you are making.
Charlotte Pipe 3/4-in x 10-Ft 480 Schedule 40 PVC Pipe
These rebar pins are heavy duty, but they work great year after year to help keep the tombstones in place. You can also use Pinkbar and cut them in half. But I have found these pins come in handy the rest of the year for other tasks.
PROWORX 0.75-in x 18-in #6 Steel Rebar Pins
How to construct main tombstone body
Creating the body of the stone.
Step 1 - Using a marker, trace out the overall shape and design for your tombstone.
Trace preferred shape onto styrofoam board.
Step 2 - The heat cutting tool makes quick work of cutting into the foam, but a serrated knife can also be used.
Using the long, straight attachment of the heat cutting tool, cut out the shape from the styrofoam board. Be sure to wear a respirator or mask.
Step 3 - Make the foam look more like stone.
Using the curved and straight attachments, cut out pieces of the foam to give it dimension. "Beat" the foam to give it a stone-like appearance.
Painting
Layers of paint bring the tombstones to life.
You want your words and cracks to be seen at night, so make sure they are painted white to help them stand out.
The first step in painting is to paint all grooves and words written in white paint.
Be sure to paint the front and back the base color. I don't do a full paint job on the back.
The next layer is your overall color. I chose a medium gray color for my base. Don't let it get into the cracks or words you just painted white.
Because it is foam, you can really carve any design into it and paint it however you please. You don't have to add extra embellishments.
You can paint the cut-outs any colors you want. I chose to paint the spider black and added a couple of red dots for eyes.
Use tacky spray to adhere moss onto the tombstone. DO NOT USE TOO MUCH. Aerosol sprays eat styrofoam.
Adding more character to the stone with moss.
Even though this is a flat piece of styrofoam, layering additional colors gives the illusion of light reflecting off of stone.
To give the illusion of stone, use a damp sponge, and dab black paint all over the board. Then add white paint using the same method.
Additional embellishment supplies - optional
Adding embellishments plays into the illusion of a real tombstone.
Tacky spray works well to adhere lighter items, like moss, to your piece.
Aleene's Tacky Spray 11 oz, Clear Permanent All-Purpose Spray Adhesive
Inexpensive moss is all you need, don't spend too much. This will be outside in the elements.
ProFlora Green Forest Moss 2oz - Floral Arranging Supplies 0.15lb
How to install
Time to display.
The best way to display your tombstone is to stake it into the ground. You will need to attach 3/4 inch pvc to the back.
First cut you pvc to a length that is at least 3/4 of the height of your stone to prevent it from snapping if strong winds blow through. Use the clear Gorilla Glue and spread along the pipe, then clamp it down. Let it set overnight.
The number and lengths of the pvc pipe depends on the height of the tombstone and if your area gets windy.
Hammer the rebar pins with a mallet or hammer into the ground and slide the pvc pipes over them.