MT HOLLY, N.C. — Spending in the U.S. this Halloween is expected to remain near historic highs, at close to $12 billion this year, according to research from the National Retail Federation. A big portion of that – nearly $4 billion -- will go towards decorations, with the organization's survey finding just over half of people plan to set a spooky mood with their décor.
Isaac Alexander, who runs a DIY YouTube channel dedicated to holiday decorations, knows you can go big with the Halloween display without breaking the bank though. His Mt. Holly home's display is an example of that.
On his channel, Alexander shows off his giant homemade jack-o'-lantern that towers over his head.
"There are several businesses out west that do make giant pumpkins for about $1,500, and this one came out to about $50," he said. "It’s actually 64 pieces of foam that have been glued together."
The tutorial for the creation shows how Alexander pieces together the foam, which he said he got for free at a local business that planned on throwing it away. He then carves the pumpkin shape and paints it orange.
So how did he score the free foam?
"They’re at several stores that sell sheds or trailers, RV’s. They use them for cushions during transport," he explained.
The jack-o'-lantern is just one of dozens of handmade decorations that will adorn his Halloween display at his Scaleybark Court home this year.
"It’s going to be the biggest display ever," he said. "Halloween is about having fun and having your imagination run wild."
Alexander assures those who are new to the DIY game that the creations are quite manageable. In fact, he said he was able to teach himself tricks of the trade during the pandemic.
"None of these creations have been made by any of the stores; so, it’s really one-of-a-kind," he said. "I think DIY is more fun and allows you to involve more people--maybe the family."
Contact Vanessa Ruffes at vruffes@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.