Standing nearly 8 feet tall, this lightweight but menacing figure is built with 1-inch PVC pipes for the frame.

The arms extend around 3 feet, giving it that signature reaching pose.

You can see a plastic skull, skeletal hands, and a roll of black garbage bags or tattered fabric form the Reaper’s haunting silhouette.

The design is simple enough to hang from a sturdy tree branch using rope or zip ties, yet detailed enough to look professional once it’s set up.

Materials Needed

• 1-inch PVC pipes (4 pieces, 3-4 ft each)
• Elbow and T-connectors
• Plastic skull and hands
• Black garbage bags or lightweight black fabric (10-12 ft)
• Strong twine or zip ties
• Spray paint (black and gray)
• Drill or small screws for securing joints

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Build the frame using PVC pipes to create the torso, arms, and shoulders.

Use T-connectors to attach the arms so you can bend or angle them later.

Step 2: Attach the skull to the top pipe using glue or screws, and add the hands to the ends of each arm.

Step 3: Spray the PVC frame with matte black paint for a uniform, shadowy base.

Step 4: Drape the black garbage bags or fabric over the frame, layering them to create depth. Then tear and fray the edges for a worn, ghostly effect.

Step 5: Use rope or zip ties to secure your Grim Reaper to a sturdy tree branch, letting the robes flow naturally with the wind.

Tips:

For added drama, install a solar spotlight beneath it, so when night falls, your Reaper glows faintly through the darkness, watching over your haunted yard.