7. Oversized Grim Reaper Scythe
No Halloween haunt is complete without the menacing presence of the Grim Reaper, and you can construct his signature weapon using nothing but cardboard and a long cardboard wrapping paper tube or wooden dowel. Cut two identical, curved scythe blades from thick, double-walled cardboard to prevent warping. Sandwich the top of your staff between the two cardboard blades, securing them with hot glue and heavy-duty tape. To add structural depth, glue a thinner strip of cardboard along the spine of the blade to give it a realistic, beveled edge.
To make the cardboard blade look like forged, battle-worn steel, paint it with a glossy silver metallic paint. Once dry, apply a watered-down black acrylic wash into the crevices and wipe away the excess with a paper towel to create a tarnished, ancient metal effect. Wrap the handle in distressed brown fabric strips, faux leather ribbon, or twine to give it an authentic, rustic grip. This lightweight prop is perfect for mounting on the wall, leaning in a spooky corner, or completing a terrifying costume.