Tips and tricks

Scarecrow makers never cease to amaze on-lookers with the vast and sometimes bizarre selection of unconventional materials put to use. A Tin man was composed of empty milk jugs, whilst a pair of life size trolls were painted paper mache.

A floating sea monster was constructed from wood and black PVC piping, wine corks brought together a romantic couple, white witches formed from chicken wire and PVA glue, a parliament of knitted owls perched in the Postal Office window, fallen branches made looming chainsaw man, and bales of straw became a gigantic terrifying teddy bear.

Consider using natural & eco-friendly material

Rather than buying new materials, all our makers recommend the use of natural materials and all sorts of eco-friendly materials such as straw, wool, newspaper, wood chipping, the list is endless!. Take a look at some of our 2018 creations for some ideas and examples.

Inspiration

Selecting a theme for your scarecrow can be challenging, you can begin by combining materials to see if any frightening or funny combinations appear.

Another approach is to choose a subject you are inspired by or drawn to; for instance a funny story, a character from a fairytale, a fantasy or folklore hero, superhero, a book, cartoon, pop star, political figure – let your imagination run wild!

The vital step after deciding on the idea for your scarecrow is scouting out the ideal setting. Taking a walk around Leap to help you imagine where your scarecrow might fit best. Next, begin gathering the materials and make a frame out of wood, branches, chicken wire, pipes, whatever will best serve your scarecrows frame. And then let your imagination do the rest

Tips from the festival’s winners.

Follow Joy Lawlor, the 2015 winner , in making the White Witch.

Follow Michael Greenlaw, winner in 2016, in making the Chaincrow, the Scary Crow and the Sea Horse.

Follow Kloe and Adam, winning couple in 2017, in making the Glen.

Follow Tomas and Daniel, winners in 2018, in making cycling & recycling.