If you’re looking to add a little extra magic to your Halloween decor this year, this DIY is one of my all-time favorites. It’s a self-stirring witch cauldron that’s a simple, affordable, and totally whimsical Halloween project that looks like it came straight out of a storybook. The bubbles shimmer, it stirs itself, and it’s guaranteed to be the centerpiece of your Halloween setup, indoors or out.
The best part? It’s so easy to make with just a handful of materials and a little creativity. And if you want to see it in action (trust me, you do!), you can watch the Instagram Reel here for the full bubbling, stirring effect.
What You’ll Need to DIY the Self-Stirring Witch Cauldron
- Cauldron (any size, but I used one that looks like a real cast iron cauldron — and it’s super affordable!)
- Iridescent ornaments (I used a 36-pack)
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- Purple twinkle lights
- Rotating platform (I used the 4.7 inch one)
- Cup
- Museum gel
- Wooden spoon
Tip: You can customize this DIY Witch Cauldron however you like by using clear ornaments for a more subtle look, changing up the light color, or even spray paint the cauldron to match your Halloween color palette.
How to Make a Self-Stirring Witch Cauldron
Step 1: Create the “Spilling Over Potion”
Start by hot-gluing the iridescent ornaments to the inside lip of your DIY witch cauldron, letting them cascade down the outside as if a magical potion is bubbling over.
- Hide the tops of the ornaments so they look like floating bubbles.
- Hold each one in place for a few seconds while the glue sets.
- Taper the ornaments as you work your way down to give the illusion of them spilling over.
Tip: If your cauldron has a handle, make sure you position the ornaments so you can still lift the handle when you’re done.
Step 2: Add the Bubble Layer Around the Cauldron
Next, glue ornaments around the entire perimeter of the cauldron’s lip. Think of this step as layering a bubbling potion right at the surface.
- Keep them clustered around the top and slightly inside the cauldron.
- Avoid having them spill over here. You want the main “spill” from Step 1 to be the star.
Step 3: Weave in the Twinkle Lights
Once all the bubbles are glued in place, it’s time to bring the magic to life. Wrap the purple twinkle lights around the ornaments.
- A wire-style cord makes this part super easy and helps keep the lights where you want them. Plus, you don’t see the wire cord once the lights are on.
- Instead of simply circling the bubbles, weave the lights over, under, and between them for a more immersive, enchanting glow.
- If you use outdoor-rated lights, you can display your cauldron on the porch.
Step 4: Make the “Self-Stirring” Magic Happen
This is the part that makes the project come alive. Place a bit of museum wax on the bottom of your cup and press it onto the rotating platform. Then, place the wooden spoon inside the cup. Place this in the middle of your cauldron and turn it on. As the platform turns, the spoon will rotate with it giving the illusion that your magical potion is stirring all by itself.
Style It for Maximum Impact
Now that your self-stirring diy witch cauldron is complete, it’s time to style it! Here are a few ideas to make it even more enchanting:
- Add a mister or fogger behind the cauldron for a bubbling, smoky potion effect.
- Place it on your front porch or in your entryway as a show-stopping Halloween decoration.
- Pair it with candles, spell books, or potion bottles for a complete witchy vignette.
- Use it as a craft night project for a Halloween party, a family DIY day, or a girls’ night in. It’s just as fun to make as it is to display!
And just like that, you’ve created a magical, self-stirring cauldron that’s every bit as whimsical as it is fun. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy tools or complicated steps to make something truly enchanting.
I can’t wait to see your versions of this DIY! If you make one, be sure to tag me @WithintheGrove so I can share it — and don’t forget to watch the Instagram Reel to see this cauldron come to life in motion. Happy crafting, witches!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Self-Stirring Cauldron DIY
Can I use different types of lights for this cauldron?
Absolutely! I love the look of purple twinkle lights because they add that whimsical, magical glow, but you can use any color you’d like. Green gives a more classic witchy vibe, orange feels festive and warm, and even color-changing lights look amazing if you want the potion to feel alive. Just make sure your lights have a flexible wire so they’re easy to weave through the ornaments.
Can I use this cauldron outside?
Yes! As long as the lights you’re using are rated for outdoor use, you can absolutely display this cauldron on your front porch or in your yard. I love placing mine by the front door so it’s the first thing guests and trick-or-treaters see. Just remember to bring it inside if heavy rain is in the forecast.
What if I can’t find iridescent ornaments?
No problem! Clear ornaments work beautifully too, and you can even spray-paint them with a frosted or pearl finish to get that magical, bubbling look. The key is layering and building up the bubbles, so any ornament that catches the light will do the trick.
Can I make this without a rotating platform?
You can! It just won’t have the stirring motion. Even without the platform, this cauldron looks incredibly magical and makes a statement piece. But if you want that extra wow factor, the illusion that the potion is truly brewing, the rotating base and spoon are worth it.
How can I make the cauldron even more magical?
Try placing a small mister or fogger behind it to create a swirling “steam” effect, or tuck in a few faux potion bottles and spell books around the base to complete the look. Half the fun is making it your own!
Check out some of these other Magical Halloween DIYs:
How to Create a Halloween Gallery Wall
Easy Halloween Projection DIY
DIY Extra Large Halloween Cauldron (Budget-Friendly!)
DIY Broom Parking Sign Tutorial for Halloween
