Halloween, at its core, is a holiday best enjoyed after dark. From trick-or-treating to the natural spookiness of nighttime, it really does come alive at the end of the day. Which is probably why so many of us love light-up Halloween decorations- for our yards AND in our homes. But, if spending big bucks on illuminated box store versions doesn’t appeal, then perhaps these colorful DIY and upcycled projects are more your speed.
Upcycled Ghost Lights
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Glass light shades from ceiling fans and bathroom sconces often end up at thrift stores after a remodel. But look how PERFECT they can be as little ghost lights! These light-up Halloween decorations take just a few minutes to make, and their eerie blue/indigo glow makes all the difference.
Lighted Halloween Sign
Image credit: Confessions of a Serial DIYer.
When I was a kid, we’d ring every doorbell on the block on Halloween night. But nowadays, it’s not always a given that every house wants to participate in trick-or-treating. Which is why I just love this DIY lighted sign, because it takes all the guesswork away!
Light-Up Halloween Decorations that “Float”
Image credit: A Crafty Mix.
This illuminated DIY project has it all: A poison bottle; a skeleton; and yes, lights! And I love how it seeming floats in the air, giving it extra-eerie appeal for anyone who loves spooky Halloween decor, too.
Spooky Lantern
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
An old crusty lantern from the thrift store might not always catch your eye. But that all changes during spooky season, doesn’t it? Because that rust and crust just adds to the appeal- especially if you light it up with cobwebs and spiders like this.
Light-Up Halloween Totem
Image credit: Scratch and Stitch.
Here’s a great idea if your kids have outgrown trick-or-treating. Hang onto those plastic pumpkin buckets because they can be repurposed as light-up Halloween decorations like this! And you can make it straight or wonky…and change the direction they face, too.
Glowing Eyes
Image credit: Mod Podge Rocks.
As someone who has always loved old photographs, this Halloween craft really caught my eye (pun intended). Not only are no actual photographs harmed, but this is such a fun and spooky way to upcycle thrifted vases and candle holders, as well.
Mop Head Ghosts
Image credit: The Navage Patch.
These bloggers, The Navage Patch, are NOTORIOUS for having amazing Halloween craft ideas. And yes, a lot of them light up! Like these glowing ghosts that are made from…mop heads. New mop heads, of course, but I think Cousin Itt would approve of this ghostly get-up, don’t you?
Witchy Moon Light
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
An old light fixture is the perfect thing to transform into an eerie Halloween moon lamp like this– complete with a flying witch! Interestingly enough, the painting technique for that moon-like “texture” couldn’t be easier, either.
Neon-Inspired Light-Up Halloween Decorations
Image credit: Pillar Box Blue.
If you love the look of retro neon lights, then this DIY pumpkin project is right up your alley. Especially since the tutorial offers up a few alternative ideas, as well. All Halloween pumpkin-inspired, of course…
Mummy Jars
Image credit: Mod Podge Rocks.
Love ’em or over ’em, mason jar crafts don’t seem to be going anywhere. But honestly, I love any sort of glass jar project that starts from my recycling bin, anyway. So, it’s no surprise that I was captivated by these illuminated mummy jars right from the start.
Fiery Wreath
Image credit: The Navage Patch.
A wreath that glows and is covered with soot-covered bones? It MUST be for Halloween and it MUST look this spooky-cool. In fact, I’m not sure if this light-up Halloween wreath would draw in trick-or-treaters or scare them away! Maybe a little bit of both…
Jack-o-Lamp
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
An outdated light fixture, especially with a round glass globe and a little metal finial, is adorably repurposed as a jack-o-lamp. Light-up Halloween decorations that only require painting on a face and an LED candle are as easy as it gets.
Light-Up Halloween Decorations with Bottles
Image credit: Pillar Box Blue.
Turning wine bottles into bottle lights is fine for the other 11 months of the year. But come October? Then Halloween bottle lights are the way to go- don’t these look fantastic? And so easy to personalize with any number of spooky characters.
Creepy Topiary
Image credit: Homeroad.
If you have a tall topiary cage or even tomato cage that you no longer use, save it for Spooky Season. Because they are perfect for upcycling into this delightful (and illuminated!) ghost decoration for Halloween. Especially if porch decorations are your thing every October.
Bewitching Candle Lantern
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
An outdated candle lantern or hurricane from the thrift store is made over into a cute-but-spooky lantern for Halloween. And the secret trick? Cellophane treat bags, believe it or not.
Bubbling Cauldron
Image credit: The Navage Patch.
A witch’s cauldron is a staple in a lot of Halloween decor designs. And depending on what she’s “brewing”, it might glow in eerie shades of green and purple. So these DIY versions (that are self-stirring!) are absolutely perfect for your Halloween decor this year.
“Boo-minaria”
Image credit: DIY Candy.
Luminaria are traditionally used as Christmas decorations- we all know that. But don’t you think if you make a Halloween version like these, they should be called “Boo-minaria”?? Or maybe “Gloom-inaria”? So many puns, so little time- but also so many fun ideas for light-up Halloween decorations, too.
Creepy Candles
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Speaking of Christmas, you know those electric window candles that are always at thrift stores? Well, they are even BETTER when spookified for Halloween- and it’s a super easy upcycle that anyone can do. Especially if they still work and you add a working orange light bulb (or flame bulb, like these).
Light-Up Halloween Decorations to Make This Year
Image credit: A Crafty Mix, Scratch and Stitch, and Sadie Seasongoods.
Aren’t all of these upcycled and DIY projects fantastic? I just love how different each one is, giving your porch or home that glowing, spooky touch. Halloween really is the ideal holiday for lighted decorations. I hope this collection of illuminated projects has sparked an idea or two for your own yard and home this year.
Craft on!
S
Want to be notified when I publish my next upcycling project tutorial?
Join me on Social Media:
PIN ME!
Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
Have a question or like what you see? Please let me know!