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

DIY Star Wars Data Panel with VIDEO!
11:13
DIY PropsIntermediate

DIY Star Wars Data Panel with VIDEO!

VanOaksProps walks through building a Star Wars-inspired data panel as a personal display piece, centered around a 10-inch digital photo frame that plays looping video content. The build layers laser-cut panels, EVA foam details, split loom and drain hose greeblies, and LEDs to achieve an authentic sci-fi control panel aesthetic. Airbrushing and oil paint weathering give the finished piece a battle-worn, screen-accurate look. SVG and 3D files for the panel design are available through the creator's Etsy shop.

VanOaksProps· 14,245 views
Antique Candlestick Telephone Prop
8:22
DIY PropsBeginnerlow / potentially near-zero if using scrap materials on hand

Antique Candlestick Telephone Prop

VanOaksProps demonstrates how to build a convincing antique candlestick telephone prop entirely from common scrap materials — pipes, EVA foam, and plastic funnels — without spending money on a store-bought piece. The build is framed as an accessible, budget-friendly project suitable for haunted houses or Halloween displays. The finished prop captures the eerie vintage aesthetic of an old-fashioned telephone that fits naturally in a spooky setting.

VanOaksProps· 10,663 views
Mastering the Art of Aging: How to Paint a Sign to Look Like Aged Metal
8:04
DIY PropsBeginner$10–$25

Mastering the Art of Aging: How to Paint a Sign to Look Like Aged Metal

VanOaksProps walks through a multi-step painting technique to make a flat sign look convincingly like aged, weathered metal. The process layers spray paints and acrylic colors — including gold tones and teal for a patina effect — along with baby powder and spray adhesive for added texture. The creator frames the skill as a storytelling tool, arguing that small prop details like this elevate the overall quality of a haunt. A giveaway for the finished sign from the video was also featured.

VanOaksProps· 13,343 views
Haunted Mansion Bust INTERNAL Projection
9:34
Projection EffectsIntermediate

Haunted Mansion Bust INTERNAL Projection

This wrap-up episode from VanOaksProps covers the completion of a DIY Haunted Mansion-inspired singing bust prop, combining carved XPS insulation foam construction with an internally mounted small projector to animate the face. The build draws direct inspiration from the iconic graveyard scene in Disney's Haunted Mansion, where five busts perform Grim Grinning Ghosts. Foam shaping, layered EVA foam detailing, masonry sealer, and a muted stone-finish paint scheme all contribute to the final effect. A commercially available animated bust is referenced as an alternative for those who prefer a ready-made option.

VanOaksProps· 18,859 views
DIY Haunted Mansion-Inspired Bust
8:04
DIY PropsIntermediate

DIY Haunted Mansion-Inspired Bust

VanOaksProps kicks off a multi-part build series with a Haunted Mansion-inspired animated bust, focusing in Part 1 on crafting the decorative pedestal. Inspired by a hack from the Prop Agenda channel, the creator shapes and details foam using a variety of cutting, routing, and sanding tools. The finished pedestal draws heavily from the iconic Singing Busts seen in Disney's Haunted Mansion graveyard sequence. This first episode lays the structural and aesthetic groundwork before the animated bust itself is tackled in later parts.

VanOaksProps· 16,352 views
Make Your Props Look Like Concrete - Painting a Haunted Mansion Queue Line Statue
7:33
DIY PropsBeginner$20–$40

Make Your Props Look Like Concrete - Painting a Haunted Mansion Queue Line Statue

VanOaksProps walks through a straightforward faux-concrete painting technique inspired by the queue-line statues found at Disney's Haunted Mansion attraction. The method combines modeling paste for surface texture with layered grey spray paints and acrylic highlights to convincingly replicate the look of aged, textured cement. The tutorial is accessible to beginners and requires only a handful of inexpensive materials. The resulting finish works on a wide variety of Halloween props and set pieces.

VanOaksProps· 16,365 views
Shop Talk & Plans For 2024
1:00:29
Other

Shop Talk & Plans For 2024

VanOaks Props sits down for an extended shop-talk session to reflect on the channel and lay out plans for 2024. The conversation covers the creator's prop-making direction, touching on both Halloween DIY builds and Star Wars prop projects. It functions as a community check-in rather than a step-by-step tutorial, giving longtime viewers a look at what's coming next.

VanOaksProps· 1,882 views
How to Paint Realistic Metallic Finishes
8:02
DIY PropsIntermediate

How to Paint Realistic Metallic Finishes

This VanOaksProps tutorial breaks down the process of achieving professional-looking metallic and chrome finishes on props, with a focus on avoiding common pitfalls. The workflow centers on proper base coat preparation followed by specialized metallic paints applied via airbrush. Oil paints are also incorporated for subtle weathering and depth. Multiple chrome paint options at varying price points are presented so viewers can choose what suits their budget and skill level.

VanOaksProps· 22,459 views
3D Modeling Basics - It's Easier Than You Think!
13:02
DIY PropsBeginner$0 (free personal license available)

3D Modeling Basics - It's Easier Than You Think!

VanOaksProps walks viewers through the fundamentals of 3D modeling using Autodesk Fusion 360, framing the process as more accessible than most beginners expect. The tutorial uses a lightsaber as a practical example, guiding through core concepts and workflow methods the creator has developed over time. A free downloadable lightsaber model and a canvas reference image are provided to help viewers follow along hands-on.

VanOaksProps· 5,827 views
How We Built Our Hyper-Realistic Cemetery Gate
4:24
DIY PropsIntermediate

How We Built Our Hyper-Realistic Cemetery Gate

VanOaks Props walks through the construction of a hyper-realistic fake cemetery gate that has repeatedly fooled viewers into mistaking it for the real thing. The build combines plywood structure, foam detailing, decorative moldings, and skilled faux painting to achieve a convincing stone-and-metal appearance. Recovered build photos help guide the tutorial, and companion column-building videos are referenced for additional context.

VanOaksProps· 19,804 views
Top 5 Tools for Makers 2023 - Improve Your Workflow!
5:03
Product Reviews

Top 5 Tools for Makers 2023 - Improve Your Workflow!

VanOaksProps shares a personal top-5 list of tools that meaningfully improved their prop-making workflow in 2023. The roundup spans precision measurement, finishing, painting, electronics, and 3D printing. Each pick is framed around real-world maker use, making the list practical rather than purely aspirational. Affiliate links are provided for all featured items.

VanOaksProps· 7,493 views
DIY Madame Leota Effect with INVISIBLE PROJECTOR
7:35
Projection EffectsIntermediate$100–$250 (projector cost varies significantly)

DIY Madame Leota Effect with INVISIBLE PROJECTOR

VanOaksProps walks through a DIY build of the iconic Madame Leota floating-head crystal ball effect, inspired by the Haunted Mansion attraction. The key innovation is routing the projection through a small angled mirror inside the globe so the projector is hidden rather than sitting visibly in front of the crystal ball. The build combines a 3D-printed stand, a translucent face form, a clear acrylic globe, and a compact short-throw projector. The result closely mirrors the in-park presentation of the effect.

VanOaksProps· 35,737 views
Building a Moisture Vaporator Star Wars Lamp
12:30
DIY PropsIntermediate

Building a Moisture Vaporator Star Wars Lamp

VanOaks Props documents a creative crossover build inspired by a visit to Galaxy's Edge, combining a 3D-printed droid dome and a moisture vaporator form into a functional floor lamp. The build leans on PVC and ABS pipe for structure, with smart LED strip lighting for atmosphere. A layered painting and weathering process using spray paints, acrylic washes, and a metallic finish gives the prop its authentic Tatooine-worn look. The video also cross-promotes a companion lamp build by collaborator The Smuggler's Room.

VanOaksProps· 9,224 views
The ULTIMATE Haunt Lantern!
8:43
Arduino & ControllersIntermediate$20–$50

The ULTIMATE Haunt Lantern!

VanOaksProps upgrades an existing haunt lantern by integrating an Arduino Nano and a Neopixel LED ring to create dynamic, programmable lighting effects. The build includes a 3D-printed controller box and custom Arduino code, both available as free downloads. Frost effect paint is applied to diffuse and soften the LED output for a more atmospheric look. The result is a polished, convincing lantern prop suited for haunted environments.

VanOaksProps· 13,972 views
Turning my Smart Thermostat into HAL 9000 from 2001: a Space Odyssey
8:04
DIY PropsIntermediate

Turning my Smart Thermostat into HAL 9000 from 2001: a Space Odyssey

VanOaksProps transforms an everyday smart thermostat into a screen-accurate HAL 9000 replica from Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey. The build centers on a laser-cut grill panel — a free downloadable file the creator shares — combined with brushed aluminum vinyl and metallic spray paint to achieve the iconic look. The result is a functional thermostat that doubles as a striking sci-fi display piece. An Adafruit project is credited as the original inspiration for the replica design.

VanOaksProps· 10,281 views
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
Pre-Halloween Livestream / AMA
1:00:12
Other

Pre-Halloween Livestream / AMA

VanOaksProps hosts a pre-Halloween livestream and open Q&A session in the days leading up to Halloween 2023. The creator fields audience questions covering the haunt season, DIY prop building, and general Halloween topics. It is a conversational, community-focused event rather than a structured tutorial or build video.

VanOaksProps· 2,812 views
DIY Plug-In LED Jack-O'-Lanterns
7:04
DIY PropsIntermediateunder $20 per pumpkin (based on listed components)

DIY Plug-In LED Jack-O'-Lanterns

VanOaksProps walks through converting battery-powered jack-o'-lanterns to run on a 12V RCA jack distribution system, eliminating the hassle and ongoing cost of replacing or forgetting to switch off tea light batteries. The build uses an LED flicker module and amber LED bulbs to replicate the warm, animated glow of a real candle. The approach ties the pumpkins into an existing haunt-wide low-voltage wiring infrastructure for centralized control.

VanOaksProps· 21,272 views
Creepy Wilting Flower Prop for Halloween
8:05
DIY PropsIntermediate$20–$50

Creepy Wilting Flower Prop for Halloween

VanOaksProps walks through building a mesmerizing wilting flower Halloween prop that slowly droops and recovers using a low-RPM synchronous motor. The mechanism relies on a cam-and-follower system, magnets, and closet door rollers to produce smooth, eerie movement. Downloadable 3D print files are available through the creator's Etsy shop, making replication straightforward for builders with access to a printer.

VanOaksProps· 14,553 views
DIY Broken Tombstone Prop for #halloween
10:14
DIY PropsIntermediate$10–$30

DIY Broken Tombstone Prop for #halloween

VanOaks Props walks through building a realistic broken tombstone prop inspired by a real-life stabilized cracked gravestone. The design features simulated metal repair bands and tabs that give the piece a uniquely aged and structurally distressed look — a standout detail for any cemetery display. XPS foam is carved, textured, coated in mortar mix, and painted to achieve a convincing weathered stone finish.

VanOaksProps· 20,336 views
DIY Pirate Treasure Chest Prop
8:04
DIY PropsBeginner$10–$30

DIY Pirate Treasure Chest Prop

VanOaks Props steps outside his usual cemetery style to build a pirate-themed treasure chest entirely from foam and hot glue. The build uses XPS insulation foam for the main structure and EVA craft foam for surface detail, finished with layered acrylic paints to achieve a weathered wood-and-metal look. It's a budget-friendly, beginner-accessible project suited for pirate haunts or Halloween parties. Note: the creator issued a correction that the plank color used is burnt sienna, not raw sienna as stated in the voiceover.

VanOaksProps· 34,723 views
What Is The Best Glue For Foam?!
7:43
DIY PropsBeginner

What Is The Best Glue For Foam?!

VanOaksProps tackles one of the most common prop-making questions by putting four popular adhesives head-to-head in a practical foam bonding test. The contenders — white Gorilla Glue, Great Stuff expanding foam, Liquid Nails project adhesive, and Titebond 3 wood glue — are evaluated to determine which performs best on foam materials. The results aim to give crafters a definitive answer before they commit to an adhesive for their next build.

VanOaksProps· 166,934 views
Supercharge Your Fog Machine!
7:34
Fog & Chiller EffectsBeginner$20–$40

Supercharge Your Fog Machine!

VanOaks Props walks through building a compact DIY fog fan attachment designed to push fog from a standard Halloween fog machine further across a yard or display. The build centers on mounting a 12V computer fan inside an ABS duct reducer and connecting flexible dryer hose to direct the output. Wago connectors and a 12V power supply keep the wiring clean and beginner-friendly. A downloadable gasket template is provided to help seal the fan housing effectively.

VanOaksProps· 48,271 views
DIY Medieval Torch Prop
11:44
DIY PropsBeginner$20–$40

DIY Medieval Torch Prop

VanOaksProps walks through a one-day scratch build of a medieval-style torch prop using PVC pipe, craft foam, and an LED flame bulb. The build relies on accessible hardware and craft supplies, with a free downloadable template provided to guide shaping. Painting and weathering steps give the finished piece a convincing aged-iron look suitable for costumes, cosplay, or haunted displays. The project is sponsored in part by Surebonder, whose cosplay hot glue sticks are used throughout.

VanOaksProps· 68,498 views