Okay, hear me out. Tiny cauldrons are adorable, but sometimes a witch just needs a BIG brew. That’s why I made this oversized cauldron. It looks like it cost a fortune (spoiler: it didn’t), and it instantly makes your space look like the set of Hocus Whether you’re decorating for a witchy porch setup, creating a spooky focal point in your yard, or adding to your “School of Witches” collection, this oversized DIY Halloween cauldron makes a big, magical statement without breaking the bank.
And the best part? It’s made with everyday items like a storage tub, pool noodle, and cardboard. With a little creativity, you’ll have a durable DIY cauldron that looks aged, weathered, and ready to bubble over with potions.
What You’ll Need to Make Your Large DIY Halloween Cauldron:
- 17 gallon storage tub
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- Foam brush
- X-acto knife or scissors
- Cardboard
- Duct tape
- Pool noodle (I found my small black one at the Dollar Store)
- Newspaper
- Black Flex Seal
- Oatmeal
- Glue
- Mod Podge
- Black, gold, and green acrylic paint
Let’s Make a Large DIY Halloween Cauldron! Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: Build the Cauldron Shape
Cut cardboard into 15-inch long arched strips, each curving to about 4 ½ inches tall. These will form the ridges of your cauldron. Cut about 40-45 strips to go around the tub, spaced 1 inch apart. You’ll also need 1-inch cardboard squares for support between each strip.
Step 2: Attach the Arches
Using a hot glue gun, glue the arched strips around the tub, spacing them evenly. Add a cardboard square between each strip to reinforce the shape.
Step 3: Secure with Duct Tape
Wrap duct tape horizontally around the entire cauldron, covering the cardboard completely. This creates the solid structure.
Step 4: Add the Lip to the Cauldron
Cut your pool noodle to the size of the perimeter of the top of the storage tub. Cut a slit down one side of the pool noodle with your X-Acto knife. Apply hot glue to the top lip of the storage tub, then press the noodle (slit side down) onto the tub’s edge. Hold in place until secured.
Step 5: Paper Mâché Layer
Mix equal parts glue and water in a bowl. Dip strips of newspaper in the mixture, then layer over the cauldron. Start by wrapping around the pool noodle lip, pressing into the groove underneath to keep the shape. Cover the entire cauldron with newspaper, let dry, then repeat for a second coat.
Step 6: Flex Seal Finish
Coat the entire cauldron with two layers of Black Flex Seal. This waterproofs the cauldron and creates a smooth black finish. For extra detail, over-apply near the lip to create drip textures, like spilled potion.
Step 7: Add Age with Texture
Mix oatmeal and Mod Podge, then apply in random spots on the lip and body. Seal with more Mod Podge once dry.
Step 8: Paint for a Rusty and Used Look
Paint over the oatmeal texture with black acrylic paint. While still wet, brush in touches of gold to create a rusty, aged effect. Water down sage green paint (mix green + black acrylics). Dab along the lip and let it drip down the sides to mimic an overflowing brew. This also adds to the aged look.
Step 9: Add the Mist
Place a cake pan filled with water inside the cauldron, add your mister(s), and watch the spooky fog roll out.
Ways to use your Extra Large Cauldron
- Place with your DIY Halloween Witches
- Place fairy lights or glowing orbs inside for a magical nighttime effect.
- Fill with candy for trick-or-treat night.
- Surround with faux bones, branches, or moss for an extra eerie vibe.
- Pair with your smaller cauldrons or witch décor for a layered look.
And that’s it! You’ve just created a giant, statement-making cauldron that will wow guests or anyone driving by. It helps bring all the spooky vibes to your Halloween display. If you make this, tag me @WithintheGrove on socials. I’d love to see your version! You can also check out my Instagram Reel to see how I’ve styled it!
