Peek‑a‑Boo Paws Halloween Workshop

Turn a couple of boards into festive Halloween decor — step by step, beginner‑friendly, and totally doable with just a few basic tools.

Boards to Boo-tiful:
An Easy Halloween Project You Can Do

Not sure where to begin? Maybe you’ve messaged me (or just thought to yourself) that you haven’t found the courage to start woodworking yet.

This online workshop is designed with you in mind. Together, we’ll build a simple fall décor project, so you can feel confident about picking up your tools.

No fancy shop or special tools required — I’ll guide you through cutting, sanding, painting, and final assembly — step by step.

🎃 Bite‑sized video lessons + replays

🎃 Printable full‑size templates included

🎃 Beginner‑friendly, with a focus on safety‑first

🎃 Rustic finishing techniques for an authentic handmade look

Only $9.99!

Yes, You Can Build This!

In this video-based workshop, you’ll turn basic boards into a festive silhouette — a curious kitty peeking around a pumpkin. You’ll cut, paint, and layer the details — paws and all — into a rustic décor piece ready to bring Halloween charm to your porch, mantel or tablescape.

Skill level:

First-time builder (you can do this!)

Time:

One weekend afternoon or a few short after‑work sessions

Tools required:

Just a few basics — you can build this with a scroll saw, glue, and a brad nailer

Three pumpkins and cats made from wood

Who This Workshop Is For

✅ You’re curious about woodworking and want a clear, confidence‑building first project

✅ You’re working with limited tools or a small workspace — whether that’s a porch, driveway, or compact shop

✅ You prefer straightforward instructions without jargon

✅ You want a fun, seasonal project you can proudly display, gift, or even sell at fall markets

What’s Inside:

Section 1 — Tools, Templates & Safety

  • Choose and inspect lumber: size explanations, checking for straightness, avoiding defects, and using knots strategically
  • Scroll saw overview: why it’s the best fit for this project, blade types, changing blades, and handling small pieces
  • Templates: how to prep and get them ready for tracing

Section 2 — Cutting & Sanding

  • Scroll saw basics: hand pressure, following your line, and handling inside corners
  • Cut smoothly: tips for curves and letting the saw do the work
  • Smooth and soften: removing saw marks and rounding edges for a rustic look

Paint, Distress & Detail

  • Clear the dust: remove sanding residue so paint sticks better
  • Pick your paint: options that give a rustic, timeworn finish
  • Distress the surface: sanding edges and faces so wood shows through
  • Add age and depth: layering stain or color for a warmer, vintage look

Final Assembly

  • Support and align pieces with scrap wood during assembly
  • Secure the cat to the pumpkin to prevent shifting before nailing
  • Fasten with a brad nailer for a quick, sturdy hold

What You Get

Printable, full‑size templates for the pumpkin, cat, and paws

Tool list & supply list to eliminate guesswork

Step‑by‑step printable instructions you can keep at the bench

Bite‑sized video lessons with replays

Access to a discussion area for questions and support

What Tools You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to follow along — nothing fancy, just a few basics you probably already have in your shop.

Essentials

Scroll saw, sanding block, glue, brad nailer, safety glasses, ear protection and dust mask

Nice‑to‑have

Miter saw or jigsaw for cutting boards to length

FAQ

Q: Is this a video course?

Yes. The workshop is taught through video lessons, so you can watch me cut, sand, paint, and assemble the project. Each lesson is bite-sized and replayable, so you can follow along at your own pace.

Q: Is this beginner-friendly?

Yes. This workshop is designed for first-time builders. I’ll walk you through each step. The lessons are bite-sized and replayable, so you can pause, rewind, and build along at your own pace.

Q: Do I need a big workshop?

Not at all. My shop is just 12×13 feet, and all of my tools are on wheels. You can build this project in a compact shop, a garage, or even on a folding table.

Q: How do the templates work?

I’ll show you how to print the included templates and transfer them to your boards. You can use carbon paper, or my preferred method — attaching them to a manila folder for easier, more accurate tracing.

Q: How long will this project take?

Plan for one weekend afternoon, or spread it out over a few short after-work sessions. If this is your first time doing a project like this, give yourself a little extra time to go step by step.

Q: Do I need fancy finishes?

No. I’ll show you simple paint and stain options, along with easy distressing techniques to get that rustic, handmade look.

Q: Will I be able to keep up?

Yes. The lessons are bite-sized and replayable, so you can pause, rewind, and follow along at your own pace.

Q: Will there be replays?

Yes, you’ll have replay access. Perfect if you like to watch, build, then rewatch.

Q: What if I have questions or hit a roadblock?

Each section includes a discussion area where you can post questions. I’ll be there to help, and you can also learn from answers to questions other students have asked.