Rusted Fence Stakes

$10 - $15 (based on 2015 prices)

Makes ten stakes with accompanying chains

Themed fence stakes are fairly easy to find during the Halloween season and they range in both price and quality. Although splurging on nicer versions may be more convenient, there is greater artistic gratification in buying cheaper pieces and altering them. Plus, the entire process allows you to adjust their appearance to fit your haunt’s theme.

• Ten Halloween-themed decorative fence stakes with chains 
• One 10 oz. can of interior/exterior, fast-drying spray paint in metallic brown 
• One 2 oz. bottle of acrylic paint in flat brown* 
• One 2 oz. bottle of acrylic paint in flat red*

1. In a well-ventilated area, lay the stakes out and, holding the spray paint can roughly twelve inches away, spray them with several even coats of metallic paint. I used two coats; however, you may want more or less depending on your desired coverage. If you accidentally miss a spot or two, don’t worry too much. You can always use the rust-colored paint to hide any imperfections.

2. Mix together the brown and red acrylic paint to form a rust color. You may want more of a reddish hue so that it contrasts with the darker metallic brown. Once the spray paint has dried, use a brush with splayed bristles to pat the rust-colored paint onto the stakes. Try to concentrate on spots where rust would naturally form: areas repeatedly exposed to the elements and moisture. It might take a few coats and some modifications to the paint’s shade to achieve your preferred appearance.

3. On a newspaper-lined surface, lay the chains out and repeat the paint pattern, focusing on regions where rust would typically occur.

4. You can add further detail by gluing leaves or moss to the stakes. You can also wrap vines through the chains and around the finials.

*You will not use the entire bottle’s content for this project.