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.

69 videos

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
3 Easy Halloween Projects (you can make at home!)
19:35
DIY PropsBeginner$20–$80 per project depending on materials on hand

3 Easy Halloween Projects (you can make at home!)

Wicked Makers hosts Jaimie and Jay walk through three beginner-friendly Halloween prop builds designed to be completed in a weekend at home. The trio covers a giant DIY spider built with paper mache and wire, a pumpkin-headed PVC-framed scarecrow dressed in thrifted clothes, and a ghostly skeleton wrapped in stiffened cheesecloth. Each project is low-cost and highly customizable, with the scarecrow compatible with animatronic jack-o-lantern heads for an extra scare factor.

Wicked Makers· 964,083 views
The Corn Stalker Halloween Prop 2024 Village Mire Yard Haunt #homehaunt #yardhaunt #halloween
0:21
Yard HauntsIntermediate$20–$80 depending on materials on hand

The Corn Stalker Halloween Prop 2024 Village Mire Yard Haunt #homehaunt #yardhaunt #halloween

This video showcases the Corn Stalker, an original yard haunt prop built for the 2024 Village Mire display by Hauntcast. The figure is constructed from a PVC pipe armature, shaped with heavy-gauge wire, and padded with aluminum foil, then finished with spray paint, real corn stalks, and a commercial Husk head from Pumpkin Riot Productions. The result is a creepy cornfield creature that blends DIY fabrication with a purpose-built character mask for a polished outdoor effect.

Hauntcast· 1,171 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
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
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 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
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
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
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 Halloween Coffin - PART 2
8:46
DIY PropsIntermediate$20–$60

Building a Halloween Coffin - PART 2

Part 2 of VanOaksProps' Halloween coffin build focuses on transforming flat insulation foam into convincingly aged wooden planks using carving, texturing, and painting techniques. The creator walks through a toolkit of abrasive and heat-based tools to score, distress, and shape the foam surface before finishing it with paint to sell the weathered-wood illusion. The completed prop is destined to appear in an upcoming film by the Hollywood Graveyard channel, giving the build a professional real-world application.

VanOaksProps· 22,959 views
How to paint your gun - Zombie Hunter paint job with spray cans.
9:45
DIY PropsBeginnerunder $10

How to paint your gun - Zombie Hunter paint job with spray cans.

This beginner-friendly tutorial from Monster Tutorials walks viewers through transforming any gun prop — or real firearm — into a rugged zombie-hunter piece using only inexpensive spray paint. The focus is on achieving a custom, battle-worn look without specialized equipment or costly materials. It's a quick, accessible project suited for costumes, haunt props, or display pieces.

Monster Tutorials· 3,360 views
The Best Way To Make Fake Cornstalks!
8:05
DIY PropsBeginner$10–$30 per stalk depending on materials on hand

The Best Way To Make Fake Cornstalks!

VanOaks Props presents a budget-friendly method for building realistic-looking fake cornstalks using common craft and hardware supplies. The build centers on a PVC pipe spine wrapped with masking tape and jute rope to build up texture and form, finished with layered acrylic and spray paints. The video is inspired by and credits the Beyond1031 Ultimate Fake Cornstalk Tutorial as its source material. The result is a lightweight, reusable prop well suited for yard haunts, haunt scenery, or seasonal outdoor decorating.

VanOaksProps· 56,296 views
Custom Star Wars Lightsaber Display with Lights!
6:14
DIY PropsIntermediate$30–$80

Custom Star Wars Lightsaber Display with Lights!

VanOaksProps builds a custom vertical display stand for a Damiensaber lightsaber, incorporating LED strip lighting to give it a dramatic illuminated effect. The build draws on laser-cut components, PVC pipe, and aluminum tape finished with spray paint. The video was produced in partnership with Damiensaber, who provided the prop at no cost. While Star Wars-themed rather than strictly Halloween, the prop-display techniques translate directly to haunted-house and themed-room set dressing.

VanOaksProps· 5,139 views
Andor Holoprojector Replica Prop | #starwars
6:15
DIY PropsIntermediate

Andor Holoprojector Replica Prop | #starwars

This build video walks through recreating the Pre-Mor Holoprojector from Episode 3 of the Andor TV series as a handheld replica prop. The creator kitbashes a vintage Bandai handheld game as the prop's base, integrates functional LED lighting, and adds a 3D-printed bezel for screen accuracy. Layered spray paint and acrylic washes are used to achieve a weathered, lived-in Star Wars aesthetic.

VanOaksProps· 8,185 views
Making a Sign from Galaxy's Edge
6:16
DIY PropsBeginner$20–$50

Making a Sign from Galaxy's Edge

VanOaksProps recreates a sign spotted at Galaxy's Edge/Black Spire Outpost in Disneyland, replicating its weathered, alien-world aesthetic using layered spray paints, acrylic detailing, and powder-based distressing techniques. The build leans heavily on aging effects — including Fuller's Earth, baby powder, and hairspray — to sell the worn, battle-worn look of Batuu signage. Star Wars-accurate fonts sourced from a free aurebesh font resource help nail the authenticity. The finished piece is a compact, screen-faithful prop replica achievable in an afternoon.

VanOaksProps· 6,201 views
DIY Halloween Fence Build - PVC and Wood
6:09
DIY PropsBeginnerlow (budget-friendly materials)

DIY Halloween Fence Build - PVC and Wood

Inspired by a cemetery tour in New Orleans, VanOaksProps builds a gothic-style haunt fence from PVC pipe and wood furring strips to complete a DIY family crypt display. The fence is elevated with 3D-printed finials and corner brackets, then finished with rubberized undercoating and rust-colored spray paint for an aged wrought-iron look. The build is designed to be accessible and budget-friendly while delivering a high visual impact as part of a larger graveyard scene.

VanOaksProps· 30,171 views
This Spirit Halloween Animatronic Makeover is CRAZY!
16:06
DIY PropsIntermediate

This Spirit Halloween Animatronic Makeover is CRAZY!

Wicked Makers' Jay and Jaimie transform Spirit Halloween's 2022 Lord Raven animatronic into an elaborate dark sorcerer character with a fully custom costume and large lightweight foam feather wings. The build draws inspiration from Stiltbeast Studios' DIY feather wing technique and layers handmade accessories, creepy cloth, and painted details over the stock prop. The video covers both a brief unboxing review of Lord Raven's out-of-the-box features — flapping arms, moving head, glowing red eyes, and spoken dialogue — and the complete step-by-step makeover process. The finished prop is presented as a standout piece suitable for home haunts, yard displays, or haunted house environments.

Wicked Makers· 829,220 views
DIY Pirate Rum Prop
6:00
DIY PropsBeginner$10–$25

DIY Pirate Rum Prop

This quick tutorial from VanOaks Props shows how to upcycle a plastic maple syrup bottle into a convincing pirate rum prop using EVA foam detailing and layered paint techniques. The build relies on common, inexpensive supplies and is completed in roughly six minutes of instruction. Weathering with multiple acrylic tones and a final clear coat gives the finished piece an aged, authentic look. It's a great low-cost accent piece for pirate-themed haunts, costumes, or Halloween displays.

VanOaksProps· 15,744 views
We made SPIDER EGGS out of Trash for Halloween!
6:08
DIY PropsBeginner$5–$15

We made SPIDER EGGS out of Trash for Halloween!

Wicked Makers hosts Jay and Jaimie demonstrate how to upcycle plastic milk jugs and water bottles into convincingly creepy spider egg sacs for Halloween. By combining recycled containers with clear Christmas ornaments, hot glue, spray paint, and acrylic washes, they create lumpy, organic-looking props at very low cost. The build is family-friendly and completable in a single afternoon, making it an accessible project for decorators of any skill level. Optional string lights can be added inside for an eerie glowing effect.

Wicked Makers· 170,268 views
PROP LAB: Building Star Wars Cargo Crates
8:19
DIY PropsIntermediate$30–$80

PROP LAB: Building Star Wars Cargo Crates

VanOaksProps builds a pair of Star Wars-themed cargo crates to complement a dedicated prop display case, inspired by a visit to Star Wars Celebration Anaheim. The crates are shaped using an Inventables X-Carve CNC router, then finished with layered spray paints, wax paint, and weathering techniques to achieve a battle-worn, screen-accurate look. Liquid latex and steel wool add tactile texture before the final paint stages, giving the props convincing depth and age.

VanOaksProps· 12,510 views
Star Wars Electro Binoculars & Case
9:36
DIY PropsIntermediate

Star Wars Electro Binoculars & Case

VanOaksProps takes on Luke Skywalker's electrobinoculars from The Empire Strikes Back, building a screen-accurate replica from a 3D-printed model with LED accents, detailed paintwork, and weathering. As a bonus, a custom fabric-lined flight case inspired by Disney's Galaxy's Edge is also constructed to house the finished prop. This entry in the creator's casual 'Let's Make' series focuses on personal passion builds rather than step-by-step instruction. The result is a polished Star Wars replica that bridges DIY prop-making and theme-park fandom.

VanOaksProps· 9,507 views