How to make boo block Halloween decorations

From 90mm x 45mm treated pine:

• Ghost and Jack O’ Lantern 300mm (2)
• Cat and witch 400mm (2)
• Vampire and monster 500mm (2)

Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Follow the cutting list (above) to cut the timber in store. Sand cut edges, then all over. Fill any flaws with timber filler; let dry, sand smooth and wipe dust. Apply a coat of primer to all sides; let dry.

Tip: Seal the paint jobs with exterior clear matt water-based sealer; let dry.

Working on a drop sheet, mask off a V at the top of the block for the cat’s ears, then apply 3 coats of black paint using a 50mm brush; let dry after each coat. Paint V shape and top white; let dry. Draw the cat’s eyes using a yellow paint marker, leaving the pupils black. Centre six black cable ties on the cat’s face beneath the eyes to create whiskers. Predrill with a 1.5mm bit and secure with 12mm screws.

Apply 2-3 coats of purple paint using a 50mm brush; let dry after each coat. Paint the black witch’s cloak on the front and sides with a 12mm brush; let dry. Draw the witch’s face using white and black paint markers. Centre a furniture leg on the top. Predrill holes with a 3mm bit and secure with 25mm screws.

Apply 3 coats of white paint; let dry after each coat. Draw the ghost face using a black marker. Mark a centre point halfway down on each side to predrill holes with a 3mm bit. Cut 400mm of chain using bolt cutters. On one side of the block, secure link 7 with a 25mm screw. Take the chain around the back and secure to the other side with a 25mm screw; let remaining chain hang.

Apply 2-3 coats of red paint using a 50mm brush; let dry after each coat. Paint the black cape and widow’s peak using a 12mm brush; leave to dry. Draw the vampire’s face using white and black paint markers. Using adhesive, attach a wedge door stop to each side with the wider end positioned at the top; let cure.

Apply 2-3 coats of orange paint using a 50mm brush; let dry after each coat. Draw the face using a black paint marker. Mark the centre of the top. With the block flat on the bench, drill a hole using a 12mm spade bit. Cut six 100mm lengths of soft ties and twist them together to form the pumpkin stem. Apply adhesive to the hole and insert the stem; let cure.

Apply 2-3 coats of green paint using a 50mm brush; let dry after each coat. Paint the black hair on the top, front and sides with a 12mm brush; leave to dry. Draw the monster’s face using white and black paint markers. Mark a hole centred on each side about 200mm down from the top, making sure they are lower than the face. Drill holes with an 8mm bit, apply adhesive to each hole, then insert hex head bolts; let cure.

• When using power tools, always protect ears and eyes with ear muffs and safety glasses (gloves and mask are also recommended), follow the manufacturer’s instructions and work in a well-ventilated area.
• When painting, always wear safety equipment (eye protection and mask) and ensure the room is well ventilated. Keep all paint and chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
• Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.
• Paint colours may vary on application.

Check out our article on how to make a Halloween ghost family.

Photo credit: Martina Gemmola and Carly Spooner.