As seasoned DIY crafters Joanne Palmisano and photographer Susan Teare demonstrate, crafting a haunted hotel sign adds authentic vintage chill to your Halloween setup. When selecting a vintage post, ensure it has a flat section for secure mounting. Choose a corbel with a precise 90-degree right angle—skip sloped ones designed for porch roofs.
Cut one plywood piece into two: one 12" x 11" for the inn name and one 3" x 12" for the "Vacant" section. Sand all edges smooth. On the 12" x 15" piece, trace curved top corners using a plate and ruler for symmetry—or a compass for precision.
Use a hacksaw to cut the decorative corners, then lightly sand for a clean finish.
Pre-drill holes in the corbel for easy mounting. Secure it to the post's flat side with wood screws.
Prop the post on bricks or scrap wood. Position the uncut plywood base at the bottom for stability.
Once all pieces—including the post and signs—are prepped, apply white paint. Allow full drying, then distress by sanding lightly for that weathered, aged patina.
Trace your chosen name onto the main sign using letter templates and a ruler. Opt for creepy classics like "Bat Barn Inn," "Black Crow's Nest," or "Ogre and Owl Inn."
Fill in the letters with black paint using a fine brush for sharp, striking results.
Pre-drill holes: top of the "Vacant" sign and bottom of the main sign. Align and insert teacup hooks, then link with chain. Repeat to hang the main sign from the corbel.
Joanne Palmisano and Susan Teare
Embellish with owls, ravens, and bats for extra haunt. Hang your creation and delight in 'checking in' Halloween guests.
