Halloween decorations are especially satisfying when they’re simple to make. This easy “head in a jar” project uses only four straightforward materials and creates a delightfully spooky display.
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This idea has been around for a few years. The original instructions I found were more complicated — they required sourcing a specific photo, printing it, then sealing it — so I simplified the process. The result is a spooky, low-effort decoration that reliably startles trick-or-treaters and their parents. I place the jar near the front walk so it’s one of the first things people see.
🎭 Materials
- 5-gallon drink dispenser or a similarly large jar
- Rubber Halloween mask with strap
- Styrofoam ball
- Green food coloring
- Small closet push light
🫙 Instructions
Start by checking that the styrofoam ball will pass through the jar opening. If it’s too tight, trim a little off the ball so it slides in and out easily. You don’t want to get it stuck.
Stretch the mask strap around the center of the styrofoam ball. If the strap is loose, tie a small knot in it to secure the mask snugly to the ball.
Tip #1: If you want the head to sink instead of float, add small fishing weights to the bottom of the ball. Otherwise, letting it float gives a creepier, bobbing effect.
Place the masked ball into the jar, add about six drops of green food coloring, then fill the jar with water and secure the lid.
Tip #2: If the head floats and pushes against the lid, use clear packaging tape to secure the lid so it won’t pop off.
Rotate the jar so the spout faces the back, then display your head in a jar in a visible spot in your yard. For nighttime impact, place a small closet push light under the jar to illuminate the water and highlight the floating head. The light gives the whole setup an eerie glow that draws attention and adds atmosphere.
Happy Halloween! We’d love to see how your Head in a Jar turns out — share your version and any tweaks you made to personalize it.
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