Turn a brain jello mold into a spooky Halloween candle holder! Learn how to make a brain craft with plaster and paint for creepy Halloween decor.
For nearly 20 years, I’ve been making brain jello every Halloween. It’s become one of those traditions my family has come to expect…
Although “appreciate” or “look forward to” might be stretching it!
So when I found another brain jello mold at Dollar Tree, I couldn’t wait to make something that would last a whole lot longer than dessert.
After all, my family never seemed to appreciate my Halloween brain jello nearly as much as I did. I’m pretty sure they are going to appreciate a permanent brain sitting around the house even less!
This time, instead of another creepy treat, I used this brain mold to make a spooky candle holder that’s perfect for Halloween decorating.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make a brain decoration that you can use year after year (no brain rot here), this easy brain craft is a fun way to do it.
Here is the Brain Jello Mold Halloween Candleholder Video Tutorial
Be sure to follow me on YouTube!
Supplies You Will Need
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- Brain jello mold
- Plaster of Paris
- Battery-operated candle
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Acrylic paint (white, red, coral, black, purple, green, brown)

How to Make a Brain Candle Holder Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Brain Jello Mold
Take apart the battery-operated candle so you’re left with just the base. Fill the opening with Silly Putty to keep the plaster from getting inside, then cover it with a small piece of tape so the putty stays in place.

Using a little hot glue, attach the candle base to the inside of the brain jello mold where you want your candle to sit when the project is finished.
Step 2: Cast the Brain
Mix the Plaster of Paris according to the package directions and carefully pour it into the brain mold.

Once it’s filled, gently tap the mold on your work surface several times. This helps air bubbles rise to the surface for a smoother finished Halloween brain…and who doesn’t want a smoother brain?
Allow the plaster to dry completely before removing it from the mold.
Step 3: Remove and Clean Up
Carefully pop the plaster brain out of the mold.

If any plaster has flowed over the candle base, use a screwdriver or small tool to chip it away.
Remove the Silly Putty from inside the candle opening and test fit your battery-operated candle to make sure it slides in easily.
Step 4: Paint the Brain
Now comes the fun part!

Start with a base coat using pink, gray, and a little green. Don’t worry about making it perfect – real brains aren’t one solid color! (I think).
Once the paint dries, lightly dry brush a peach or coral color over the raised areas to bring out all the details in the brain craft.
Step 5: Add the Creepy Details
Paint the candle with red acrylic paint.

Next, use your hot glue gun to create drips running down the candle. Once the glue cools, paint over it with red paint and add just a touch of purple in places to give the “blood” a darker, more realistic look.
Insert our battery-operated candle, turn off the lights, and enjoy your spooky new Halloween brain decoration.!

Now What?
I love finding new ways to use everyday items, and this brain jello mold was just begging to become something other than Halloween brain jello.
It’s an inexpensive project, it’s easy to make, and best of all, I can enjoy this creepy brain craft every Halloween without wondering who’s actually going to eat it!
If you make one, I’d love to see it! Share your creations with me on social media or leave a comment below.
Beyond the Brain Halloween Crafts
I have so many Halloween DIYs I know you will love!
- Halloween Resin Eyeball Coasters DIY
- Cheesecloth Ghost Craft Tutorial
- Halloween Witch Ornament Craft Tutorial
- Glitter Bat Craft Tutorial
Thanks for stopping by! Remember: Life’s too short not to shimmer, so grab your glue gun and your glitter!™
Mona