Do you want to spruce up your house this Halloween season? Making tombstone decorations is the perfect way to add a touch of haunted decor. Not only are these stylish and fun, but they can be made easily with just some simple supplies. As with any craft project, the possibilities for creativity are endless!
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert crafter, use this guide to learn how to make your own tombstone decorations. If you’re feeling extra creative, use this guide as a starting point and add your own personal touch to the designs.
In this tutorial, we will show you how to make classic wooden tombstones and foamboard versions, complete with ghoulish epitaphs! Read on for all the necessary steps and instructions on how to make tombstone decorations.
What Will You Need?
Before you get started, gather the supplies needed for the project. The materials list may vary depending on the type of tombstone decoration you are making. These are as follows:
- Wood or foamboard
- Paint (if using wood)
- Craft knife or saw
- Chalk markers/pencils
- Glue/tape (if using foam board)
- Optional: sponges, stencils, sandpaper, etc.
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary materials, you’re ready to get started!
10 Easy Steps on How to Make Tombstone Decorations
Step 1. Cut Your Wood or Foamboard:
Depending on the type of tombstone decoration you’re making, use either a saw or craft knife to cut your wood or foamboard it accordingly. If you’re using wood, make sure to use a saw. As for foamboard, a craft knife will do the trick.
Step 2. Sand Edges (Optional):
For a more professional look, use sandpaper to smooth out the edges of your tombstone. This is optional but recommended if you’re looking for a polished finish. Try using a sponge to achieve an even smoother surface.
Step 3. Paint Your Tombstone (optional):
If using wood, give it a coat of paint before moving on to writing the epitaphs. Choose any color that matches your spooky decor – black or grey are always classics! You can also use paint or spray paint to make a design on your tombstone.
Step 4. Write the Epitaph:
Write a ghoulish epitaph directly on the tombstone decoration using chalk markers or pencils. Keep in mind that this should be short and sweet – no more than two lines long! Let your creative juices flow, and have fun with this part of the project.
Step 5. Add Finishing Touches (Optional):
If you want to get extra creative, add more details to your tombstone decorations. Use sponges to dab paint and create a pattern on the tombstone or use stencils to make shapes. Use glitter for a spooky shimmer or glue on small objects like buttons and stones. Have fun and get creative with this step!
Step 6. Glue Foamboard Together:
If you’re using foam board, glue both pieces together. White or hot glue will do the trick when it comes to keeping them bonded together. Don’t forget to press down firmly so that the pieces stick together.
Step 7. Let It Dry:
Let your tombstone decoration sit until completely dry so that all elements adhere securely in place. You can even place it in a dry area, like under the sun or near a fan. It will be ready to display in no time!
Step 8. Cut Out Window (Optional):
If desired, cut out a window at the top of your tombstone with either a saw or craft knife. This adds an extra level of detail and gives off more of a haunted vibe! Be careful when handling sharp tools.
Step 9. Place Tombstone:
Once your tombstone decoration is completely dry, it’s time to place it in your desired location. This could be anywhere – from the yard to the front porch and all around the house! Ensure that the tombstone is firmly in place so it doesn’t blow away with the wind.
Step 10. Enjoy:
Your DIY tombstone decorations are complete and ready to spook up Halloween vibes! Sit back and enjoy the creepy atmosphere that you created. Remember to take a few pictures before your decorations go out of style!
Now that you know how to make tombstone decorations, get creative with your design this Halloween season! There are a ton of ways in which these can be customized, so have fun with it and let your imagination run wild. You can turn any ordinary room into a haunted graveyard with a few simple steps. Enjoy!
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Consider using stencils for letters, numbers, and shapes.
- Use a black marker to draw on the decorations for extra detail.
- Consider using spray paint to add a splash of color to your decorations.
- Use glitter and glue for extra sparkle and texture.
- If you want a 3-dimensional effect, use foam shapes and cut away the excess pieces with scissors or exacto knives.
These techniques will help you make beautiful tombstone decorations that will be sure to stand out from the crowd! Have fun creating your very own unique graveyard display this Halloween season! Happy crafting!
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Never use real candles or other open flames near your decorations.
- Don’t use sharp objects like knives and scissors to cut hard surfaces like wood, stone, or cement.
- Don’t hang heavy objects from your tombstones, as it may cause them to break or topple over.
- Avoid using glass when crafting decorations as it can be easily shattered and dangerous for trick-or-treaters.
- Don’t use latex paint on the decorations – acrylic paint is much safer!
- By following these tips, you’ll be sure to create amazing tombstone decorations that will look great and last longer! Have fun this Halloween season!
What Are the Types of Tombstones?
- Slanted-Headstones: These are traditional types of tombstones that typically feature an engraved inscription on the front face. They are usually set into a concrete base and come in various shapes, sizes, and colors.
- Upright Monuments: These vertical monuments are made out of granite or other hard stones and feature detailed carvings that make them stand out from the crowd!
- Beveled Markers: These markers have flat surfaces with slightly curved edges at the top and bottom to provide depth and character to the grave marker.
- Crosses & Other Symbols: Many families use crosses or other religious symbols as their loved one’s grave markers to represent their faith.
- Memorial Benches & Statues: Benches and statues often honor the deceased with a permanent reminder of their life.
No matter what type of tombstone you choose, they will provide lasting memories of your loved one that will be appreciated for many years! With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to make beautiful tombstone decorations that will help create an unforgettable Halloween display this year!
What is the Most Important Part of a Tombstone?
The most important part of a tombstone is the inscription. It should include information about who is being memorialized, their life and accomplishments, and any personal messages that may be meaningful to friends and family. This will help ensure your loved one’s memory lives on for many years!
When crafting tombstone decorations, it’s important to remember these few tips: use stencils for design details and markers or spray paint for color; glitter and glue can add texture; safety first by avoiding open flames and sharp objects; acrylic over latex paint; and make sure the inscription is meaningful.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be sure to create beautiful decorations that will last throughout the years!
What Shape is a Tombstone?
A tombstone generally comes in various shapes, such as rectangular, oval, heart-shaped, and even an inverted V. It can also be customized with other elements like birds or symbols representing the deceased’s life. The most important thing is to choose a shape that best represents your loved one’s memory.
Creating tombstone decorations for Halloween should be fun and exciting!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to make beautiful and unique decorations that will help create a memorable display this season. Have fun crafting!
Conclusion
Whether celebrating Halloween, the Day of the Dead or adding extra decorations for a party, making your tombstone decorations can be fun and rewarding. It’s an interesting project requiring some supplies and a little creativity. You can make different kinds of tombstones with a range of materials. With this tutorial, you now have all the resources to create the perfect spooky tombstone to enhance your decorating.
So why not gather your tools and give it a try? This DIY project may require some patience and time investment, but it’s sure to be worth it in the end when you have unlimited, customizable props that will bring life to any occasion. Embrace your crafting skills and make something unique from what everyone else has seen before!
Hopefully, the article on how to make tombstone decorations was helpful and informative. Now you can start your project and create the perfect decorations for this Halloween season.