Mad Madeline's well-dressed Scaretaker still looks dapper, although he could use a haircut and he probably hasn't brushed his teeth in decades. If you don't happen to own a life-sized mannequin, a coat rack or quickly constructed platform base with plywood-frame body and arms (think big stick figure) will give you a structure upon which to decorate. Dress your porch monster in men's or women's clothing, using pillow stuffing, socks, rags, etc. to pad his or her body. Attach a mask to the top of your wood frame with staples, pushpins, glue gun or double-sided tape, add hair and a hat, and maybe more padding or "filler." Use shoes or boots for feet. For hands, lightly pad a pair of gloves and safety-pin (or sew) them inside the cuffs of your monster's jacket.
Porch monsters are easy and fun to assemble with stuff you probably already have at home. If you want someone a bit more imposing or startling on your porch or in your yard, look at some of the great life-sized characters available online or at costume shops. Several sites also offer instructions on how to make your own life-sized creature. Just think -- a new member of the family!
More Porch and Patio Creatures and Ghouls:
