Halloween Universe

The Screening Room

The Halloween Video Library

A curated, searchable archive of the dark craft — DIY props and animatronics, home-haunt walkthroughs, makeup, lighting, fog, and effects. Every film embedded from its creator, organized so you can actually find what you need.

Channel: VanOaksPropsClear ✕

244 videos

Recreating a Galaxy’s Edge Sign with EVA Foam – Step-by-Step Prop Build
10:52
DIY PropsIntermediate

Recreating a Galaxy’s Edge Sign with EVA Foam – Step-by-Step Prop Build

VanOaksProps walks through a full build of a Galaxy's Edge-inspired marketplace sign using EVA foam, modeling paste, and a custom Illustrator template available as a free download. The tutorial covers every stage from cutting and shaping foam layers to painting, weathering, and finishing with Rub n Buff and airbrush decay effects for a convincingly battle-worn Batuu aesthetic. Techniques transfer readily to cosplay accessories, themed room displays, or haunt set dressing. The approachable material list and step-by-step pacing make this accessible to intermediate foam crafters.

VanOaksProps· 6,509 views
This Project Took 10 Years to finish
10:17
DIY PropsIntermediate

This Project Took 10 Years to finish

VanOaksProps revisits a decade-old ambition to build a screen-accurate replica of Leia's Boushh bounty hunter helmet from Return of the Jedi. After an unsatisfying first attempt that stalled at the painting stage, the creator starts fresh with refined skills and a more deliberate approach. The build focuses heavily on painting, weathering, and finishing techniques to achieve a convincing, film-accurate result.

VanOaksProps· 8,539 views
A SHOCKING Upgrade to my Haunted Mansion Window - USING AI!
10:29
Arduino & ControllersIntermediate

A SHOCKING Upgrade to my Haunted Mansion Window - USING AI!

VanOaksProps revives a Haunted Mansion-inspired window prop and levels it up by adding a realistic lightning effect powered by an ESP32 microcontroller and a NeoPixel LED strip. Rather than writing Arduino code from scratch, the creator uses the AI platform Deepseek to generate the lightning sketch, making the process accessible even to those with no coding experience. A 3D-printed project box houses the electronics cleanly, and the finished effect is designed to mount easily to the existing prop.

VanOaksProps· 13,044 views
Haunted Mansion Prop from CHEAP Craft Store Finds!
13:09
DIY PropsIntermediate$30–$60

Haunted Mansion Prop from CHEAP Craft Store Finds!

VanOaksProps walks viewers through a step-by-step build of the iconic door knockers from Disneyland's Haunted Mansion Corridor of Doors, using inexpensive craft store and online finds. The build combines plastic ornaments, wooden beads, and a dowel as a base, with resin casting and Dremel work adding detail. A layered paint and finishing process — including automotive primer, spray paint, and Rub n Buff — sells the aged, ornate look of the original prop. A free downloadable PDF template is provided to help replicate accurate shapes.

VanOaksProps· 11,949 views
Star Wars Detention Block Holocam (PART 2)
10:03
DIY PropsIntermediate

Star Wars Detention Block Holocam (PART 2)

This concluding build video from VanOaksProps walks through the final assembly, painting, and finishing of a replica 57C Holocam — the iconic detention block security camera from Star Wars: A New Hope. The creator covers precision detailing, multi-stage painting with an airbrush, and the application of vinyl decals and resin accents to achieve a screen-accurate look. References to community build logs on the Replica Prop Forum are cited as key research sources. The result is a display-quality prop suitable for collectors, Star Wars fans, and haunt or set designers seeking cinematic sci-fi scenery.

VanOaksProps· 4,562 views
Making a Star Wars Detention Block Holocam
8:54
DIY PropsIntermediate

Making a Star Wars Detention Block Holocam

VanOaksProps walks through a full build of the iconic 57C Holocam — the detention block surveillance camera from Star Wars: A New Hope — using 3D-printed parts sourced from a third-party model file. The tutorial covers the complete workflow from raw prints to finished replica, including cleanup, priming, multi-step spray painting, masking, and final varnish. Attention to screen-accurate color and detail is central to the build. The result is a display-ready collector prop suitable for fans and prop builders alike.

VanOaksProps· 7,042 views
Star Wars Wall Panels: Creating Epic Decor from Old Electronics!
10:48
DIY PropsBeginnerlow / budget-friendly (uses salvaged materials)

Star Wars Wall Panels: Creating Epic Decor from Old Electronics!

VanOaksProps walks viewers through building Star Wars-inspired wall panels by repurposing discarded electronics and tech parts into sci-fi greeble-style décor. The project is framed as accessible and low-cost, leaning on creative assemblage rather than specialized skills. A series of spray paints — including matte black, granite grey, rust primer, and silver acrylic — are used to unify the salvaged components into a cohesive, cinematic aesthetic. The finished panels suit a home haunt, themed room, gaming space, or event set dressing.

VanOaksProps· 9,333 views
What's the Plan? (Livestream)
44:23
Other

What's the Plan? (Livestream)

VanOaks Props hosts a casual livestream to chat with the community about upcoming projects and the future direction of the channel. The session covers planned builds spanning both Halloween props and Star Wars creations. It's a behind-the-scenes look at the creator's roadmap rather than a step-by-step tutorial.

VanOaksProps· 2,349 views
Over an HOUR of DIY Star Wars Projects
1:43:16
DIY PropsIntermediate

Over an HOUR of DIY Star Wars Projects

VanOaksProps compiles their top ten Star Wars DIY prop builds spanning four years into a single 103-minute showcase. Projects range from beginner-friendly repaints of toy blasters and droid weathering to more ambitious scratch-builds like a Gonk projector droid, a Tusken Raider helmet, and a one-of-a-kind Star Wars lamp. Each segment links back to a dedicated source video where full materials and paint details can be found. The collection covers a wide variety of prop-making skills, making it a useful reference for Star Wars fans at multiple experience levels.

VanOaksProps· 23,914 views
Star Wars Skeleton Crew Gatekeeper Droid Build
12:23
DIY PropsIntermediate$30–$80

Star Wars Skeleton Crew Gatekeeper Droid Build

VanOaksProps walks through a full scratch build of the Gatekeeper Droid from Star Wars: Skeleton Crew (also seen in Return of the Jedi), using a combination of 3D-printed parts, PVC pipe, and everyday hardware-store materials. The eye dome is a repurposed clear Christmas ornament housing a NeoPixel ring driven by a custom-edited Arduino Nano sketch. Finishing involves layered spray paints and Fuller's Earth weathering to nail the worn, galactic aesthetic. Free templates and code files are linked in the description to help builders replicate the project.

VanOaksProps· 16,571 views
Making Galaxy’s Edge Magic at Home!
8:37
DIY PropsIntermediate$30–$80

Making Galaxy’s Edge Magic at Home!

VanOaksProps walks through building a DIY replica of a prop canister inspired by Disneyland's Galaxy's Edge queue areas and Black Spire Outpost stalls. The build centers on a surplus WWII gas mask canister as a base, dressed up with a custom 3D-printed greeblie patch and finished with a multi-layer paint and weathering process. Oil paints, Fuller's Earth, and chrome paint are layered to achieve a convincing worn, sci-fi industrial look. The result is a screen-accurate-feeling Star Wars set piece achievable on a modest budget.

VanOaksProps· 6,108 views
EASY Way to Add Sounds to Halloween Props!
6:46
Arduino & ControllersBeginner

EASY Way to Add Sounds to Halloween Props!

VanOaksProps walks through an accessible method for adding motion-triggered sound effects to Halloween props using an audio player module and an exciter speaker. The build relies on minimal tools and simple wiring techniques, making it approachable for beginners. Free 3D-printable project box files are offered to house the electronics neatly. The result is a compact, self-contained sound solution that can be integrated into virtually any prop.

VanOaksProps· 10,002 views
Silicone Mold Making & Resin Casting Tutorial | Easy DIY Step-by-Step Guide!
8:24
DIY PropsBeginner$30–$80

Silicone Mold Making & Resin Casting Tutorial | Easy DIY Step-by-Step Guide!

VanOaksProps walks through the complete process of making silicone molds and casting resin duplicates in this beginner-friendly tutorial. The workflow covers mixing and pouring silicone, applying mold release, and achieving clean resin casts suitable for small prop components. The channel's own Star Wars-inspired resin rocker switches serve as a real-world example of what the technique can produce. At under ten minutes, the guide is concise and practical for anyone looking to start replicating small prop parts at home.

VanOaksProps· 25,305 views
LIVE Q&A - Ask Me Anything
53:22
Other

LIVE Q&A - Ask Me Anything

VanOaks Props hosts a live Q&A session where viewers can ask anything related to DIY Halloween props, decorations, and beyond. The stream runs just under an hour before cutting off due to a camera power issue at the 54-minute mark. It offers a conversational, community-driven format rather than a structured tutorial. Topics likely span the creator's usual range of Halloween and Star Wars prop-making projects.

VanOaksProps· 1,546 views
Creating a Ghostly Fog Effect!
7:53
Fog & Chiller EffectsBeginner$20–$50

Creating a Ghostly Fog Effect!

VanOaks Props demonstrates a beginner-friendly technique for adding a ghostly fog effect to a Halloween display prop using an ultrasonic mister. The build centers around a 3D-printed prop — a steaming thermos — combined with paint and self-adhesive vinyl to sell the illusion. The approach is designed as a simple plug-and-play solution that enhances atmosphere and storytelling in a haunt or yard display.

VanOaksProps· 13,027 views
Cemetery Votive Candle Props for Halloween
7:24
DIY PropsBeginner$5–$30 depending on high or low budget approach

Cemetery Votive Candle Props for Halloween

VanOaksProps walks through two approaches — high-budget and low-budget — for building realistic cemetery votive candle holders as Halloween haunt props. The builds rely on accessible materials like repurposed water bottles, dollar-store bowls, LED candles, and EVA foam, with a 3D-printed option for those who want a more polished result. Gold spray paint and lighting gels tie the pieces together for an authentic flickering candlelight atmosphere. The short runtime keeps instruction tight and actionable for haunters at any spending level.

VanOaksProps· 8,629 views
Adding Leaves to your Haunt (it’s not what you think)
7:13
DIY PropsBeginner$20–$50

Adding Leaves to your Haunt (it’s not what you think)

VanOaksProps presents a clever, budget-friendly workaround for haunters in regions where natural fall foliage is scarce: handmade, reusable leaf mats. The technique layers artificial fall leaves onto a tulle mesh base using hot glue and spray adhesive, creating flexible panels that add realistic autumn color and texture to any haunt environment. The finished mats can be deployed across ground, walls, or props and stored for use season after season.

VanOaksProps· 7,760 views
How To Make Prop Rocks & Boulders
7:13
DIY PropsBeginner$20–$50

How To Make Prop Rocks & Boulders

VanOaksProps demonstrates how to fabricate convincing lightweight prop rocks and boulders using wire mesh as an internal armature covered with expanding foam. The technique is budget-friendly and scalable, making it suitable for Halloween yard haunts, set dressing, or themed prop builds. The short runtime keeps the process accessible and easy to follow for makers at any skill level.

VanOaksProps· 47,035 views
Solar Powered Lights for Halloween?! - AiDot Linkind Smart Solar Spotlight
5:34
Product Reviews

Solar Powered Lights for Halloween?! - AiDot Linkind Smart Solar Spotlight

VanOaksProps takes a sponsored look at the AiDot Linkind smart solar spotlights and evaluates their potential as Halloween lighting solutions. The video explores whether solar-powered smart lights can deliver the atmosphere and reliability haunters need without running extension cords. It serves as a practical buying-guide style review aimed at home haunters looking for low-effort outdoor lighting upgrades.

VanOaksProps· 51,105 views
5 Halloween LED projects
36:43
Lighting TutorialsBeginner

5 Halloween LED projects

This compilation video from VanOaksProps brings together five LED-based Halloween lighting projects in a single 37-minute session. Projects range from plug-in jack o'lanterns and a feature haunt lantern to PVC candles, a smoldering log effect, and a DIY medieval torch prop. Each segment links back to its original standalone tutorial, making this a convenient one-stop resource for haunt lighting inspiration. The projects collectively aim to elevate the atmosphere of any home haunt or Halloween display.

VanOaksProps· 61,467 views
Halloween Pop-Up Skull with GLOWING Eyes!
7:43
DIY PropsIntermediate$30–$70

Halloween Pop-Up Skull with GLOWING Eyes!

VanOaksProps walks through the construction of a motorized pop-up skull prop featuring glowing red LED eyes, inspired by Eerie Acres Cemetery. The mechanism uses a reindeer motor paired with a full-extension drawer slide to drive the skull upward in a repeating motion. A wooden frame provides the structural base, while nylon balls act as eye sockets for the pre-wired LEDs, and a downloadable 3D-printed mount file is included for easier assembly. The result is an eye-catching, relatively affordable Halloween prop suitable for yard or haunt use.

VanOaksProps· 25,958 views
Making a C-3PO Bust for New York Comic Con #nycc
9:05
DIY PropsIntermediate

Making a C-3PO Bust for New York Comic Con #nycc

VanOaksProps walks through the construction of a display-quality C-3PO bust built from 3D-printed parts sourced from free Thingiverse models. The build covers surface prep with filler primer and multi-stage sanding, a multi-layer metallic paint finish, and the integration of acrylic light-panel material and LEDs for glowing eye inserts. Beacon Adhesives products are used throughout for assembly, with the finished piece destined for display at New York Comic Con.

VanOaksProps· 9,619 views
5 DIY Halloween Motorized Props
28:57
DIY AnimatronicsBeginnerlow (budget-friendly builds emphasized)

5 DIY Halloween Motorized Props

This VanOaksProps compilation packages five separate motorized prop tutorials into a single nearly 30-minute video, designed to ease builders into adding movement to their haunts. Projects range from a simple pop-up mechanism to a rocking tombstone, an animated skeleton, a motorized haunted shovel, and a creepy wilting flower. Each build is presented as approachable and affordable, with links to the individual source videos for full parts lists. The overarching goal is to demystify basic animatronic techniques for home haunters at any skill level.

VanOaksProps· 142,194 views
3D Scanning my Haunted Mansion Collection - Creality CR-Scan Otter
7:43
DIY Props

3D Scanning my Haunted Mansion Collection - Creality CR-Scan Otter

VanOaksProps explores using the Creality CR-Scan Otter 3D scanner to digitize pieces from a personal Haunted Mansion prop collection. The video demonstrates how the scanner captures physical objects for potential reproduction or archival purposes. This is a sponsored/product-furnished review framed around a Halloween prop-making workflow.

VanOaksProps· 10,270 views