Hanging Props
Hanging props add a vertical element to your haunt that most people forget about. Visitors are looking ahead and at ground level — something dangling overhead or swaying in the breeze catches them off guard. Cocoons, caged bodies, hanging ghosts, and dangling creatures all work well.
Cocoon Bodies
Stuff a white or gray trash bag with newspaper into a rough body shape. Wrap with cheesecloth, gauze, or strips of white fabric. Hang from a tree branch with rope or fishing line. For a more detailed version, wrap a PVC scarecrow frame in fabric first, then cocoon-wrap over it. Add a face pressing through the fabric for an extra creep factor — press a dollar-store mask into the cheesecloth while the stiffener (starch or glue) is still wet.
Caged Bodies
Build a cage from wire, rebar, or even a large tomato cage. Place a skeleton, skull, or stuffed body form inside. Hang from a tree limb or a horizontal beam. Light from below with a dim spotlight.
Hanging Ghosts
See the ghosts guide for construction details. The key to a good hanging ghost is movement — they need to sway. Hang from a single point with a long line so even slight breezes create motion. The flying crank ghost is the ultimate version of this.
Mounting Points
- Tree branches (use rope, not nails in the tree)
- Shepherd's hooks driven into the ground
- PVC or wooden beam spanning between two tall uprights
- Porch eaves and roof overhangs (use removable hooks)
- Garage door frame for walkthrough haunts