How to Make a Wreath for Your Halloween Display

I make all my own outdoor creepy Halloween decorations every year. This is how I made a wreath covered in snakes. It really looks very scary. It is going to be attached to the door so the kids will have to get up close to knock for their trick or treat. There are step-by-step instructions with lots of photos so that you can make one yourself for the holidays.

• Wreaths - 1 large and 1 small.
• Snakes - I used 4 but you can add more if required.
• A few lengths of string or ribbon.
• UHT glue.
• Paint to use as an undercoat.
• Black spray paint.
• Clear varnish spray paint.
• Old plastic sheet.

1. Place the smaller wreath inside the larger one and tie securely together with some string or ribbons.
2. Arrange the snakes around the wreath until you have a display that you like.
3. Take the largest snake and using some glue attach it to the circle.
4. Tie some string or ribbon around it too so it remains secure.
5. The snake will look better if you can wrap it around the edges with the head falling away from the main part.
6. Do the same with the remaining snakes.

1. Paint the wreath all one colour as an undercoat.
2. Allow the paint to completely dry overnight.
3. Put on some rubber gloves to protect your hands.
4. Place the wreath on to a plastic sheet and spray paint it black.
5. For a better 3D look leave some of the undercoat visible on the scales of the snakes.
6. Leave to dry overnight.
7. Do the same again on the other side.
8. Give it a second coat if you think it is needed.
9. Leave to dry overnight.
10. Spray paint with clear gloss varnish on both sides. This protects it from the bad weather.

1. Wreaths come with hoops of wire on the back to hang it on the door.
2. Screw a hook on your door where you want to place it. Mine is going to be right next to the doorbell for the desired creepy effect.
3. Attach the wreath onto the screw and then use a pliers to bend over the screw opening until it closes.
4. This will make it secure and prevent anyone taking it away from your door.

Every year I have been adding to my scary garden display by making a few things from scratch. The kids love it and so do lots of the adults too.

I bought everything I needed to make this wreath in charity shops or at car boot sales. The snakes cost me only 10 cents each. I am always on the look out during the year for bits and pieces that can be used for something I make for Halloween.

I made this coffin last year and had it displayed in my front yard. The kids loved it when they came trick or treating. They were a little scared but sure that is what this October night is all about.

I make lot of the decorations myself and really enjoy doing them. They save me loads of money too because I buy the stuff during the year cheaply. But one thing I did buy new was my skeleton. He takes pride of place in my creepy outdoor display.