Jack and Zero need some prop friends. Which ones would you choose? Image courtesy of Marciniak Photography.

The beginning of summer is the opportune time to plan prop projects for Halloween. It gives a haunter the time and space to be more creative and allows for mishaps to be corrected. It allows for any reconstructions or cosmetic work to be completed in leisure – rather than a few panicked weeks.

Since I made Jack Skellington and his dog Zero last year, I’ve been contemplating what other characters to add. Jack’s girlfriend Sally, is at the top on my list. But how I will make her, is still up in the air.

The Easiest:

Get a mannequin, throw on a store-bought costume and a little paint. But don’t forget, it’s an expensive option too. I’m the frugal gal: Willing to put a lot of effort into a project without breaking the bank.

Other Options

I could use boxing tape, plastic wrap and a volunteer model to make a lightweight body cast as in the 2012 Scotch Off the Tape Video. I’d stuff it, paint it, and throw a patch-stitched dress on it. The head:  I can take a Styrofoam head, add the modeling clay from The Ultimate Paper Mache recipe and paint it. Yet, I’m interested in hearing what others would do.

Besides the girl, I have a few other characters in mind. Like the mayor, the mad scientist, or the pumpkins that were skewered with the black fencing. What’s your favorite character?

A possible choice for adding to my Nightmare section of my yard. Image courtesy of mybestdesktops.com.

If you have made any props from The Nightmare Before Christmas, please share them. Maybe you can offer some inspiration to all of us.