Halloween Universe

Video Theme

Replica Props

Videos built around the replica props theme — pulled together so you can study how others bring this atmosphere to life.

5 videos

Building a "FLOATING" Star Wars lightsaber Display
8:34
DIY PropsIntermediate$30–$70

Building a "FLOATING" Star Wars lightsaber Display

VanOaksProps constructs a striking 'floating' lightsaber display unit built around an acrylic tube, a NeoPixel ring, and an Arduino Nano to create a glowing containment-case effect. The build showcases an NSabers Obi-Wan Kenobi replica lightsaber as its centerpiece. The creator also references a free online NeoPixel effect generator to simplify the LED animation coding. The result is a display-quality sci-fi prop piece suitable for collectors and Halloween set designers alike.

VanOaksProps· 23,619 views
Metallic Gold Paint using Food Coloring?
8:43
DIY PropsIntermediate$20–$60

Metallic Gold Paint using Food Coloring?

VanOaksProps demonstrates a budget-friendly technique for achieving a convincing metallic gold finish, crediting prop maker Gordon Tarpley as the method's originator. The process uses an aerosol metallic basecoat combined with liquid food coloring to dial in a warm gold tone, finished with acrylic varnish for durability. The technique is demonstrated on a 3D-printed C-3PO hand prop, making it highly relevant for sci-fi cosplay and replica builds. The result punches well above its price point compared to off-the-shelf gold paints.

VanOaksProps· 11,052 views
LIVE! Build A Ghostbusters Proton Pack!
2:10:21
DIY PropsIntermediate

LIVE! Build A Ghostbusters Proton Pack!

A live workshop session dedicated to building a Ghostbusters proton pack prop from scratch alongside the host. The session runs over two hours and is framed as a collaborative, community build-along experience. It targets makers and fans who want to create a screen-inspired replica for cosplay or display purposes.

Creative Geekery· 6,249 views
How to Build Leia’s Comlink from Star Wars The Empire Strikes Back
10:06
DIY PropsIntermediatebudget-friendly (specific total not stated)

How to Build Leia’s Comlink from Star Wars The Empire Strikes Back

VanOaksProps breaks down how to build a screen-accurate replica of Princess Leia's rarely documented comlink from The Empire Strikes Back, using vintage reference images including a 1980 Topps trading card to reverse-engineer the original. The build combines sourced real-world hardware parts, custom 3D-modeled and resin-printed components, and a modified modern tape measure to recreate the prop's key elements. The tutorial wraps up with primer, grey spray paint, and silver mica finishing for an authentic screen-matched look.

VanOaksProps· 6,146 views
Haslab Vs. Matty Vs. Spirit Ghost Traps: The Ultimate Showdown!
13:56
Prop Reviews

Haslab Vs. Matty Vs. Spirit Ghost Traps: The Ultimate Showdown!

This video pits three Ghostbusters ghost trap replicas against each other — the Hasbro Haslab Two in the Box, the Matty Collector trap, and the Spirit Halloween version — in a head-to-head comparison. The host evaluates each prop across aesthetics, build quality, electronics, and overall operation to help viewers decide which version best suits their needs. It serves as a practical buying guide for collectors and Halloween enthusiasts alike.

Creative Geekery· 4,262 views