Haunted Bust

$7 - $10 (based on 2015 prices)

Makes one bust  

I have always admired those creepy busts that haunt the drafty hallways of old houses. For my version, I wanted to add a more sinister touch. So, I gave the prop the illusion of darkness pouring from its eyes. The project is rather easy and quick, especially if you find your bust at the second-hand store. You can use either a larger piece or a series of smaller statues to create a coven of ghostly figures.

• One twelve-inch ceramic bust
• One 8 oz. bottle of wood glue*
• One 2 oz. bottle of acrylic paint in flat black*
• One 2 oz. bottle of acrylic paint in flat brown*
• One 2 oz. bottle of acrylic paint in flat white*

1. On a newspaper-lined surface, paint the bust black. Although I only used one coat, you may want more depending on your desired coverage. Keep in mind, though, that this is the base coat for the crackle paint and much of it will be covered up by the second layer. While I chose black, you can use a different color to tailor the prop for your specific needs.

2. Once the paint has dried, use a thick brush to apply a smattering of wood glue to the prop. Try not to over think your application (a random pattern produces the best results).

3. Let the glue sit for a minute to become tacky and then cover the bust with the white paint. Here, too, I only used one coat; however, you may want more. As the glue and paint dry, they will form cracks, making the base coat visible.

4. Once the glue and paint have fully dried, brush a light coat of brown paint onto the bust to simulate dirt. During this process, try to focus on areas where dust and grime would normally accumulate: in the curls of the hair, along the creases of the clothing, and inside the ears and mouth.

5. Use the black paint to darken the eyes and create a dripping effect. You want the final version to look like blackened evil is pouring from the bust’s eyes. Try to simulate running mascara, exaggerating the streams and bringing them down toward the jaw line.

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