How to Create Scarecrow Heads for Your Garden

Scarecrows are fun and relatively easy things to make. They not only help keep the birds off your crops, but they make for lovely fall decorations. However, the most important thing about a scarecrow is, without a doubt, its head. It’s what gives it personality and life, and it’s what makes it stand out among the other scarecrows. Fortunately, making a scarecrow head is not rocket science, and with a little bit of creativity and some basic materials, you can make a unique and charming one in no time.

First, you’ll need to decide on the shape and size of your scarecrow’s head. Most people go for the traditional round pumpkin shape, but you can get creative and make it oblong, square, or any shape that strikes your fancy. Once you’ve decided on the shape, you can make the head out of a variety of materials such as burlap, newspaper, or fabric. Part of the charm of scarecrows is their rustic look, so don’t worry too much about getting everything perfect. Now, let’s dive into the steps necessary to make your very own scarecrow head.

Materials Needed for Making Scarecrow Heads

Before we dive into the exciting process of making your very own scarecrow head, let’s take a look at the essential materials required for the task. To make a scarecrow head, you will need:

1. A Bunch of Straws

Straws are an integral component in the making of a scarecrow head as they provide the structure for the head and aid in keeping the entire project upright.

2. A Pillowcase

The pillowcase will serve as the skin of your scarecrow head, so make sure to choose one that is breathable, lightweight, and durable.

3. A Pair of Scissors

To cut and shape the straws and pillowcase efficiently, a good pair of scissors should come in handy.

4. A Needle and Thread

Thread and needle are necessary for sewing the pillowcase into shape, ensuring that your scarecrow head retains its form.

5. A Marker

Use a marker to outline the face on your scarecrow head and to guide you in cutting out facial features.

6. A Glue Gun

The glue gun is necessary for sticking the straws in place and attaching the facial features to the pillowcase.

7. Buttons or Beads for Eyes

For an authentic look, choose any button or bead that matches the size of the intended eyes and gives the scarecrow the perfect stare.

8. A Hat or Bandana

No scarecrow is complete without the perfect hat or bandana to top it off. Ensure that the hat or bandana is the correct size to fit on your scarecrow’s head.

9. Hay or Straw for Stuffing

To ensure that your scarecrow head has an authentic puffy feel, stuff it with hay or straw until it is firm.

10. A Little Creativity

Finally, let your imagination and creativity run free! Adding extra elements like fake blood, tattered clothes, and even tattoos can make your scarecrow head truly unique and personalized.

Now, you have all the necessary tools and materials to create your very own scarecrow head. So, let’s move on to the next section, where we will teach you how to shape and assemble the head in easy steps.

Section 2: Materials and Tools Needed

1. Straw or Hay

Straw or hay is the most crucial material required for making a scarecrow head. It lends the traditional touch of a scarecrow and is easily available. You can either use fresh hay or straw as per your preference. The fresh hay is softer and more flexible, making the work of stuffing easier, while straw is more durable and perfect for outdoor use. Ensure that the hay or straw is dry, or it might rot and attract pests.

2. Old Clothes

To add a human touch, you need to dress up your scarecrow. You can use any old clothes, such as jeans, shirts, jackets, and hats. Select clothes that are beyond repair or are not in use anymore. The best thing about using old clothes is that they make your scarecrow look old and worn out, adding to the rustic appeal.

3. Scissors and Needle with Thread

You’ll need a pair of scissors to cut the fabric and a needle with thread to stitch the clothes together. The stitches must be tight so that the hay or straw does not stick out.

4. Pillowcase or Burlap Sack

Using a pillowcase or burlap sack to make the head provides additional protection for the hay or straw inside. It also makes the stuffing process simpler and reduces the risk of falling apart.

5. Gloves

Wearing gloves while stuffing the scarecrow head avoids itching and allergenic reactions due to hay or straw. It is best to wear gloves made of rubber or latex that provide firm grip and do not interfere with work.

6. Twine or String

Twine or string is used for tying the head to the body. It should be strong enough to hold the head in place yet not too tight to restrict the body’s movement.

7. Paint and Brush

While painting is not a mandatory step, you can add additional details by painting your scarecrow’s face. You can also paint the clothes for a more vibrant and colorful appeal.

8. Glue

Using glue can help in securing the fabric together. You can use any glue that dries clear and is nontoxic.

9. Stuffing Tools

While stuffing the scarecrow head, you’ll need tools such as a stick or broom handle to push the hay or straw inwards. You can also use your hands, but tools make the process easier and more efficient.

10. Foam Balls and Hot Glue Gun

If you want a more realistic look, you can use foam balls as the eyes and a hot glue gun to stick them in place. It is a bit more challenging, but the results are worth the effort. You can also add other details to the head, such as a nose, mouth, and ears.

3. Materials and Tools Needed for Making Scarecrow Heads

Want to know what’s needed to make a scarecrow head that stands the test of time and looks like a pro made it? Here’s a list of the materials and tools required.

1. Straw: You can buy a straw bale from a local farmer or garden center. Alternatively, you can use another material, such as foam, cotton, or newspaper.
2. Head Form: You can buy pre-made, foam head forms or make your own using a balloon or Styrofoam ball.
3. Glue: You will need a strong adhesive that bonds well with the material you’re using. Hot glue guns and liquid glues work well for most materials.
4. Decorative Elements: You can add a hat, scarf, glasses, or other accessories to make your scarecrow head unique. These items can be made from fabric or purchased at a craft or Halloween store.
5. Tools: You will need a pair of scissors, a pencil, a ruler, and a serrated knife (if using foam).

3.1 Choosing the Right Straw

If you decide to use straw for your scarecrow head, it’s essential to choose the right type. Wheat straw is the most traditional option, but oat, barley, and rye straws are also suitable.

When selecting your straw, avoid anything that looks moldy, damp, or has weeds growing out of it. It’s best to select a bale with long, golden brown, and straight grasses. Cut the straw to the appropriate length before use.

3.2 Creating a Head Form

If you can’t find a pre-made foam head form, make your own using a balloon, a paper mache paste, or a Styrofoam ball. Cover the ball with masking tape, and then apply paper mache or paper clay mixture over the top.

Another option is to use a balloon as your base. Inflate it to the desired size, and then cover it with masking tape. Now, you have a mold—apply traditional paper mache or paper clay over it.

3.3 Securing the Straw

To attach the straw to the head form, use a strong adhesive, such as a hot glue gun or liquid glue.

Apply the glue in small sections, and press the straw into it. Start at the bottom of the head form and work your way up to the top, creating layers of straw.

If you’re using a Styrofoam ball head form, you can use a serrated knife to carve out small pockets for the straw to be inserted.

3.4 Decorating Your Scarecrow Head

Once you’ve covered your head form in straw or another material, it’s time to get creative with the decorations. You can add a hat, scarf, glasses, or any other accessories your heart desires.

For example, you can use a piece of burlap to create a scarf and then attach it to the neck area with glue. Hats can be made from felt, straw, or old clothing items.

It’s best to use fabric scraps since they can add a realistic touch to your scarecrow head.

3.5 Preserving Your Scarecrow Head

To help your scarecrow head last for years to come, you can spray it with a clear, sealant spray. Acrylic sealants work best and can help protect your scarecrow from the elements and insects.

Alternatively, you can store it in a plastic or cardboard box away from sunlight and moisture. If you’re planning to use your scarecrow for an event, make sure it’s stored in a cool, dry place and avoid direct sunlight.

That’s a Wrap on Making Scarecrow Heads!

Now you know just how easy it is to create your own scarecrow heads to add some fun and festive fall décor to your home or garden. Don’t forget to use your imagination and get creative with the materials you use – anything from old clothes to craft supplies can work wonders. Thanks for reading, and be sure to come back again for more DIY project ideas that can make your life feel a little more lifelike!