The makings of a monster

First I build a base out of scrap lumber. On this project I used a metal flange with a smaller pipe screwed to my base wood. I slipped my PVC frame on flange and ran a screw through the center to keep it from swiveling.

Monster mud* this is my recipe, which I mix Sheetrock mud, latex paint ( i use oops paint that i find throughout the year) and celluclay. I do not have exact measurements, I just mix it to the consistency I like to work with, which is a thick cold mud. There are many recipes for monster mud online do your research and find a recipe that suits you)

I build a PVC frame using random pieces of plumbing and fittings. Then add a styrofoam head (or a cheap store bought skull, with agile In the bottom).

After you know how I want my creature positioned, I glue my pieces into place.
Hands were pre made ( DIY hot glue skeleton hands)

I then start cutting and bending wire mesh to suit my needs. Chicken wire can be used as well but I prefer smaller mesh. The mesh is stronger but may be a little harder to work with.

After getting my wire secured by wrapping a small gage wire ( I use bailing wire) around mesh to secure them together,I bend the mesh into shape. I Make sure all wire ends are tucked in and fold in my corners, this will save my fingers later.

I then take burlap and drape over my structure. Then I am ready to start applying my monster mud. I Avoid putting monster mud on to thick or drying time will be forever it will also crack. I can always do a second coat. I use oops paint for my monster mud so my colors vary, so I buy cheap white and black spray paint to keep on hand for color adjustments when it dries. I'm still not done (am i ever really done?) and can't wait to share the final results.

Okay, it is now 2015, these were originally made in 2012 and the 2nd critter always seem lacking to me, he was off balance. So, this year I decided to modify him a little and give him some wings to even him out a bit. I first cut him open and exposed his inside.

The PVC was cut and spliced to and a three way fitting was added. I then framed the wings (being mindful not to make it to heavy) with cvpc and various elbows angles fittings. I then did all the above mentioned steps and painted.

Hot glue stick skeleton hand

Slice sticks to desired lengths for bone and joints. Then melt together repeat, and paint. I later wrapped the base of the hands in duct tape and painted. Sometimes I don't know when to leave well enough alone.

DIY cheap shackles

I work at a pediatric office where we hand out stickers to our well behaved patients. So I (and my coworkers) saved the empty sticker rolls.

I spray painted them black and then did the same with a paper towel roll. And then cut it up the center(I suggest painting the inside and letting it dry) then cut my links which were each about 1/2 inch wide. Link and glue, repeat.  I used hot glue which I don't recommend, it works well but lost most of my fingerprints in the process. 

Dripping Candles DIY

I First cut PVC to various lengths. I used 1 1/2 inch schedule 40(make sure your flameless candles will fit in the pipe) I use mostly scrap materials for my projects. I am cheap and hate waste. I save useful things throughout the year.

Next I use a dremel ( a creative girls not so intimidating best friend) to smooth down rough edges and to create character.

When the pipe can stand on its own and I get the desired look I use hot glue to give the effect of dripping wax.

When the glue is dry you are ready for a quick coat of spray paint.

Make a ring inside the pipe with hot glue the depth of your flameless votive. Repeat