A spooky-sweet Halloween DIY for the mildly macabre.

Okay, confession time: I’m really not into creepy or gory Halloween decor. I know, I know—it’s practically a seasonal requirement. Nevertheless, this year, I decided to lean into the spooky side just a little… mainly because my husband loves all things eerie and unsettling this time of year. As a result, I created these Eyeball Topiaries, a Halloween DIY that’s dramatic, a little weird, and surprisingly chic.

And the best part? Every single item came from Dollar Tree. Budget-friendly and spooky? That’s a win in my haunted book.

Supplies You’ll Need:

• Black candlestick holders (plastic or wood)
• Styrofoam base (I used a pumpkin shape!)
• Plastic eyeballs (the more, the eerier)
• Faux black flowers and leaves
• Craft glue or hot glue
• Optional: black spray paint or glitter for extra flair

How to Make Eyeball Topiaries:

1. Prep Your Base First things first, if your candlestick holders aren’t already black, give them a quick coat of spray paint. Let them dry completely. While you’re at it, go ahead and paint your styrofoam ball or pumpkin base too, just in case it peeks through the faux florals.

Next, glue your styrofoam pumpkin (or ball) securely onto the top of each candlestick to create the topiary base.

Want a taller, more dramatic look? Glue a second candlestick directly on top of the first styrofoam ball, and add another styrofoam ball to the top of that. You’ll end up with a stacked topiary base that’s perfect for layering eyeballs, florals, or spooky accents.

2. Add the Eyeballs Once your base is ready, start gluing plastic eyeballs all over the styrofoam. You can go symmetrical or totally chaotic—either way, choose whatever suits your spooky style. I clustered mine in groups for a slightly “watchful” effect.

3. Fill with Florals After that, tuck faux black flowers and leaves between the eyeballs to fill in gaps and add texture. This step really elevates the look from “crafty” to “creepy-chic.” Additionally, you can add glittery accents or dark feathers for extra drama.

4. Style & Display Finally, place your finished topiaries on a mantel, entryway table, or party buffet. They make great conversation starters and pair perfectly with moody lighting or flickering candles.

Final Thoughts

These eyeball topiaries were a fun way to dip my toe into the spooky side of Halloween without going full horror movie. They’re weird, whimsical, and just creepy enough to make my husband happy.

On the flip side, if spooky or creepy isn’t your vibe, check out my Ghost Family Gallery Tutorial for a softer, sweeter take on Halloween decor. Pink cheeks and bows included.

Happy haunting—your way!

And if you make your own eyeball topiaries, I’d love to see them—tag me on Instagram @ohwaitimamom so we can share the spooky love!

With a coffee in one hand and a plastic eyeball in the other,

💛Bethany