How to Make a Scarecrow

The following is a basic pattern for making your own scarecrow, a wonderful way to get outside and enjoy the autumn beauty.

A scarecrow is basically a crossed figure that has been dressed and stuffed to add volume. Feel free to improvise on this basic design, based on what you have on hand. For example, while we suggest strips of lumber, lengths of pipe or sticks will work just as well for the cross. Straw, leaves, wadded up fabric or even computer paper will do for stuffing.

Materials needed:

• Two pieces of 2” x 1” lumber, one longer than the other

• A nail and some twine

• Old nylon stockings, pillowcase, pumpkin, twig ball, gourd, latex mask, or wooden disc for a head

• Needle and thread or a stapler

• Old clothing

• Straw, leaves, pine needles, or whatever else may be at hand for stuffing

• Bailing wire, rope, or heavy duty zip ties to secure to post

Attach the two pieces of lumber or other frame material together to form a cross.

For the head, if you are using old stockings, split them, piece them together lengthwise and sew or staple the seams and stuff it in the shape of a head. Similarly, if you are using a pillowcase, tie the head loosely at the neck end. Paint a wistful or scary face on with acrylic paint, or permanent marker, or stitch it on with wool or cord or embroidery thread. Slide the head onto the short end of the vertical pole. Then attach the head to the body by tying tightly with twine around the open end. Pumpkins, twig balls, gourds, latex masks or wooden discs may also be used for heads.

From here, use your creativity. Drape any clothing onto the poles, stuff and tie off at the wrist, ankles, and waist. Stuff long strands of yarn under hats or scarves. Tie gloves to the outstretched ends of the crossbar. Then experiment with any silly, pretty or earthy materials you can come up with. Fancy lace to tattered cloth—it’s up to you. Set it out to delight crows and frighten passers-by.

It is not recommended to use papier mâche for parts of the scarecrow. Unless a sealant is used, the possibility of rain/snow during the fall months will cause the papier mâche to degrade quickly. Even with a sealant, papier mâche does not last with constant exposure to water.

Important Dates:

Applications Open: September 1
Deadline:September 29
Installation: October 13
Voting Ends : October 31

Are the woods calling to you? Is there a witch or a winding path beyond the trees? Bring your scarecrows and your imagination and give us your best “into the woods” themed scarecrow! Applications are open from September 1st-October 1st. Scarecrows will be hung on Central Avenue on October 12th and 13th. Pole assignments will be sent out on October 3rd. We are not taking requests for pole locations; however, there will be limited positions with power available on first come, first served basis.