Cemetery Fencing
Fencing serves two purposes: it defines the boundaries of your graveyard scene and it controls foot traffic through your haunt layout. A good fence also adds atmosphere on its own. There are several approaches depending on your budget and how permanent you want the fence to be.
PVC Pipe Fence
The most popular option for yard haunts. Lightweight, cheap, easy to make, and stores flat.
Materials Per Section (approx 4 feet wide)
- 1/2" PVC pipe (vertical pickets, cut to varying heights 24-36")
- 3/4" PVC pipe (horizontal rails, two per section)
- PVC tees or cross fittings
- Flat black spray paint
- Rebar or stakes for anchoring
Drill holes through the horizontal rails and thread the vertical pickets through them, or use tee fittings at each picket. Top each picket with a PVC cap filed to a point, or heat the PVC end and pinch it into a spear point with pliers. Paint everything flat black. The result looks surprisingly like wrought iron from even a short distance, especially under colored lighting.
See the PVC framework guide for pipe cutting and joining tips.
Pallet Fence
Wooden pallets stood on their sides and connected together make an instant rustic fence. Free from most warehouses and hardware stores. Paint them with dark weathering washes or leave them raw for a decrepit look. Good for zombie barricade scenes.
Finial Toppers
Fence finials (the pointed or decorative tops) add a lot of character. Options include:
- Wooden finials from the hardware store's curtain rod section
- Carved foam skulls on each post
- Wooden or foam fleur-de-lis shapes
- Simple pointed caps (cheapest and most classic)
Painting for Wrought Iron Look
Start with flat black spray paint as a base. After it dries, very lightly mist with metallic silver or dark gray from about 18 inches away to create a subtle metallic sheen. Add rust-colored paint to joints and low spots. See painting and weathering for dry brush and wash techniques.