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

10 DIY Halloween Lighting Upgrades!
53:28
Lighting TutorialsBeginner

10 DIY Halloween Lighting Upgrades!

VanOaksProps compiles ten of his best haunt lighting tutorials and tips into a single marathon video covering everything from foundational lighting concepts to specific DIY builds. Projects span a wide range, including plug-and-play LED setups, animated lighting effects, PVC candles, smart light integrations, and enhanced LED jack o'lanterns. Each segment links back to a full dedicated video for deeper instruction. The collection is designed to help haunters at any level dramatically improve the atmosphere of their displays.

VanOaksProps· 128,828 views
10 DIY Halloween Props Under $10
1:10:23
DIY PropsBeginnerUnder $10 per prop

10 DIY Halloween Props Under $10

VanOaksProps compiles ten of their most popular budget Halloween prop builds into a single 70-minute video marathon, with each project costing under $10. The lineup spans a wide range of themes — from pirate rum bottles and treasure chests to a prop scythe, medieval torch, and smoldering log effect. Each segment links to its original standalone tutorial, making it easy to jump to specific projects. The format works equally well as a step-by-step guide or background viewing while already building in the workshop.

VanOaksProps· 218,719 views
Simple DIY Halloween Raven Animatronic
8:23
DIY AnimatronicsIntermediate$30–$80

Simple DIY Halloween Raven Animatronic

VanOaksProps walks viewers through building a low-tech animated raven prop inspired by a design from Bart Bussey of Morbid Manor. The build combines a store-bought crow decoration with 3D-printed mechanical parts and a slow-RPM motor to create a lifelike flapping or bobbing movement. EVA foam, Velcro, and additional feathers help polish the final look. The project is designed to deliver high visual impact without requiring complex electronics or programming.

VanOaksProps· 32,902 views
Quick & Easy Custom Halloween Finials
6:54
DIY PropsBeginner$10–$25

Quick & Easy Custom Halloween Finials

VanOaksProps walks through a fast, budget-friendly method for crafting custom decorative finials from 5mm EVA foam using free downloadable templates. The build relies on accessible tools — a heat gun, X-Acto knife, and contact cement — to cut, shape, and bond the foam into polished architectural accents. A multi-step paint finish gives the finished pieces a convincing aged or metallic look. The free template download makes replication straightforward even for first-time foam builders.

VanOaksProps· 9,366 views
The ULTIMATE DIY Halloween Tombstone Marathon!
1:19:27
DIY PropsIntermediate

The ULTIMATE DIY Halloween Tombstone Marathon!

This feature-length compilation from VanOaksProps collects multiple tombstone tutorials into a single marathon session, covering everything from basic foam carving to ultra-realistic aged gravestones. Projects range in complexity, including a replica Haunted Mansion tombstone, a projector-housing tombstone, broken and distressed styles, and techniques for adding memorial portraits and lichen. It's designed both as a complete learning resource and as companionable background viewing while you work on your own props. The chapter-based structure makes it easy to jump to the specific technique you need.

VanOaksProps· 65,004 views
Oil Lamp Prop from JUNK!
8:14
DIY PropsBeginner$0–$5

Oil Lamp Prop from JUNK!

VanOaksProps demonstrates how to build a convincing Victorian-style oil lamp prop using a recycled cold brew coffee bottle and miscellaneous items found around the house — no hardware store required. The build emphasizes creativity and cost-effectiveness, proving that compelling Halloween props can come from everyday trash. The finished piece doubles as a period-appropriate set dressing for Halloween displays or Star Wars-themed builds.

VanOaksProps· 8,450 views
Cheap & Easy Brush On Silicone Mold
9:13
DIY PropsIntermediate

Cheap & Easy Brush On Silicone Mold

VanOaksProps demonstrates a budget-friendly approach to mold making using the brush-on silicone method paired with a supportive plaster mother shell — an ideal alternative to expensive block molds for larger objects. The tutorial walks through applying multiple silicone layers with a brush, building a rigid plaster shell over the finished mold, and ultimately casting copies in resin. The technique is well-suited for prop makers who want professional-quality duplicates without the high material cost of full block molds. A lion head sculpt serves as the hero piece throughout the demonstration.

VanOaksProps· 20,639 views
Halloween PVC Fences Don’t Have to be BORING!
10:24
DIY PropsIntermediate

Halloween PVC Fences Don’t Have to be BORING!

This tutorial from VanOaksProps demonstrates how 3D modeling and printing can transform plain PVC haunt fences and gates into convincing, detailed props. The creator walks through the design process using 3D modeling software to craft custom decorative elements inspired by classic haunted mansion aesthetics. A ready-made 3D model is also available for purchase on Etsy for those who want to skip straight to printing. The approach is presented as accessible enough for haunters who haven't previously considered 3D modeling as part of their prop-building toolkit.

VanOaksProps· 8,115 views
Make your Halloween Tombstones MORE Realistic!
6:02
DIY PropsBeginner$10–$25

Make your Halloween Tombstones MORE Realistic!

VanOaksProps walks through a quick, beginner-friendly method for adding convincing dimensional lichen to Halloween tombstones and cemetery monuments. The technique centers on acrylic modeling paste to build realistic texture, followed by a layered painting approach using earthy ochre and umber tones. The result is an authentically weathered, organic look that elevates foam or store-bought tombstones significantly. At under six minutes, it's one of the fastest high-impact prop upgrades in the channel's library.

VanOaksProps· 8,126 views
Self-Contained Floating Lantern Upgrades
7:53
DIY PropsBeginner

Self-Contained Floating Lantern Upgrades

VanOaks Props walks through upgrades to a self-contained floating lantern prop suitable for Halloween or Star Wars-themed displays. The focus is on making the lantern more convincing and easier to use without relying on external power or rigging. At roughly eight minutes, the video is accessible to makers at most skill levels looking for an affordable decorating win.

VanOaksProps· 14,076 views
Metallic paint doesn’t have to be hard
1:00
DIY PropsBeginner

Metallic paint doesn’t have to be hard

VanOaks Props shares a quick tip for achieving convincing metallic finishes on DIY props without the usual frustration. The one-minute format suggests a focused, beginner-friendly technique that can be applied to Halloween and Star Wars-style builds alike. The approach is positioned as accessible and likely low-cost.

VanOaksProps· 8,802 views
Aged gold paint finish with food coloring? #starwars #c3po
0:53
DIY PropsBeginner

Aged gold paint finish with food coloring? #starwars #c3po

VanOaks Props demonstrates a quick, budget-friendly technique for achieving an aged gold paint finish using food coloring, inspired by the look of C-3PO from Star Wars. The one-minute short walks viewers through how a common household ingredient can be used to create a convincing metallic weathered effect on props. It's a clever hack suited for costume pieces, replica props, or Halloween decorations on a tight budget.

VanOaksProps· 8,684 views
Prepping 3D printed part for paint with steel wool #fallout
1:00
DIY PropsBeginner

Prepping 3D printed part for paint with steel wool #fallout

This short tip video from VanOaksProps demonstrates how to prep a 3D printed part for painting using steel wool. The technique focuses on smoothing the surface of a print to achieve a better paint finish. Though tagged with Fallout theming, the method applies broadly to any prop or costume build involving 3D printed components.

VanOaksProps· 6,448 views
Creating a aged metal finish using rubberized spray #vanoaksprops #halloween
1:00
DIY PropsBeginner

Creating a aged metal finish using rubberized spray #vanoaksprops #halloween

VanOaks Props demonstrates a quick technique for achieving a convincing aged metal finish using rubberized spray paint. The one-minute clip focuses on the finishing process, making it accessible for prop builders of any skill level. The method is applicable to Halloween props as well as cosplay and replica builds such as Star Wars pieces.

VanOaksProps· 13,999 views
DIY ULTRA Realistic Halloween Tombstones!
10:50
DIY PropsIntermediate$20–$60

DIY ULTRA Realistic Halloween Tombstones!

VanOaks Props walks through a complete process for building ultra-realistic foam tombstones that convincingly mimic aged stone. The tutorial covers shaping, carving fine details, texturing with caulk, and a multi-step painting workflow using acrylic washes and a masonry sealer to achieve an authentic weathered-granite look. Techniques like flame treatment and dry brushing add depth and surface realism that elevate these props well beyond typical foam graveyard pieces.

VanOaksProps· 85,031 views
Crematorium Door Prop for Your Haunt!
9:04
DIY PropsBeginner$20–$60

Crematorium Door Prop for Your Haunt!

VanOaksProps walks through the construction of a convincing fake crematorium oven door using wood, EVA craft foam, and a layered paint approach. The build is designed to be quick and accessible while delivering a genuinely unsettling set-dressing piece for a Halloween haunt. A multi-step painting process — including rubberized undercoating, matte black, metallic aluminum, and acrylic washes — gives the prop its gritty, industrial realism. Starbond CA glue (provided by the sponsor) is used throughout to bond foam components securely.

VanOaksProps· 12,608 views
4th YouTube-versary Livestream!
1:14:52
Other

4th YouTube-versary Livestream!

VanOaksProps marks four years on YouTube with a celebratory livestream for their DIY Halloween prop-making community. The session likely blends Q&A, behind-the-scenes chat, and discussion of past and upcoming projects spanning Halloween and Star Wars prop builds. As a milestone broadcast rather than a structured tutorial, the content is conversational and community-driven. Fans and longtime followers will find it an engaging look at the channel's journey and creative direction.

VanOaksProps· 1,281 views
Building a Galaxy's Edge Locker Panel
9:53
DIY PropsIntermediate

Building a Galaxy's Edge Locker Panel

VanOaksProps recreates the control panel from the newly added storage lockers at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge as a functional prop for a real locker. The build centers on a custom 3D-printed panel that is primed, layered with multiple spray paint colors, and finished with oil paint washes and Rub n Buff to achieve an authentic, weathered sci-fi look. Final assembly uses button-head screws and VHB tape to mount the panel cleanly. The result is a screen-accurate-style replica suitable for Star Wars-themed spaces or Halloween haunt set dressing.

VanOaksProps· 7,994 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
Building a BD-X Droid from Galaxy's Edge | Part 2
7:45
DIY PropsIntermediate

Building a BD-X Droid from Galaxy's Edge | Part 2

Part 2 of VanOaksProps' BD-X droid build focuses on painting and final assembly of a 3D-printed replica inspired by Galaxy's Edge. The creator walks through a multi-step paint process using MTN 94 spray paints to achieve the droid's signature color scheme, then assembles the printed components using screws, CA glue, and wire loom. The 3D model files are a community-designed work in progress available through MrBaddeley Printed Droids on Patreon. The video is sponsored by JLC3DP, which supplied printed parts for the build.

VanOaksProps· 12,865 views
Fallout “Vaulter” Cosplay Biometric Sensors
10:54
Costume TutorialsIntermediate

Fallout “Vaulter” Cosplay Biometric Sensors

Inspired by the Fallout TV series, the creator designs, 3D prints, and finishes a set of biometric sensor props to complete a Vault Dweller cosplay. The video walks through the full workflow from digital modeling to print cleanup, priming, and chrome finishing. A custom downloadable 3D model is available through the creator's Etsy store for viewers who want to replicate the build.

VanOaksProps· 10,991 views
Building a BD-X Droid from Galaxy's Edge | Part 1
7:24
DIY PropsIntermediate

Building a BD-X Droid from Galaxy's Edge | Part 1

VanOaksProps kicks off a multi-part series building a replica BD-X droid inspired by the real Disney-engineered characters seen in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. The build relies on community-designed 3D model files and 3D printing services to recreate the droid's distinctive design. Part 1 establishes the project scope, introduces the source files, and begins the assembly and finishing process using hardware, adhesives, and spray paints.

VanOaksProps· 20,613 views
DIY Ghostbuster Ecto Goggles
8:18
DIY PropsIntermediate$20–$60

DIY Ghostbuster Ecto Goggles

VanOaksProps revives a long-shelved project to complete a screen-accurate set of Ghostbusters Ecto Goggles, using a free Thingiverse 3D model as the foundation. The build focuses on hardware assembly — sourcing specific screws, snaps, and olive-colored belting straps — followed by a multi-layer paint and weathering process using acrylics and oil paint washes. The result is a wearable, movie-faithful replica suitable for cosplay or display. This video kicks off a new series dedicated to finishing abandoned prop builds.

VanOaksProps· 8,258 views
UPGRADE Your Ghostbusters Popcorn Bucket
10:03
DIY PropsBeginner$20–$50

UPGRADE Your Ghostbusters Popcorn Bucket

VanOaksProps walks through a paint upgrade process for the Ghostbusters Ghost Trap popcorn bucket available from Regal Cinemas or Spirit Halloween, transforming the stock plastic prop into a convincingly movie-accurate replica. The tutorial relies on a short list of accessible acrylic and spray paints combined with liquid latex masking to achieve a weathered, metallic finish. The result elevates a novelty theater collectible into a display-worthy prop without requiring advanced skills or expensive equipment.

VanOaksProps· 12,742 views