19 Ways to Pose a Skeleton for Halloween
No bones about it, these life-size skeleton poses will make your home the most hilarious haunted house on the block this Halloween. We'll show you where to buy posable skeletons, how to secure them in your yard, plus share easy-to-replicate ideas for posing them.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Skeleton inside large window with a sign that says "help."](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-captive.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798219261.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
![](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/editorial/profiles/editors/jennie-andrews/190502_DLS_IceCreamMakerCocktails_3244_cre_pp_e.jpeg.rend.hgtvcom.91.91.suffix/1643906802138.jpeg)
Halloween decor doesn't have to be dark and creepy all the time. For a fun twist on the usual Halloween yard decorations, look no further than life-size pose-and-stay skeletons. These skeletons have articulating arms and legs that allow them to be posed, giving you endless opportunities for skeletal antics. Pose them once and leave them all season, or if you are super committed, you can change their poses daily or weekly, keeping neighbors on their toes.
Where Do I Buy Posable Skeletons?
The surge in popularity of large posable skeletons means that they are readily available for purchase at big box stores as well as online. Most large skeletons are around 5 feet tall and come with movable arms and legs.
Shop Pose-and-Stay Skeletons
How to Make a Skeleton Stand Up
While the joints of these posable skeletons are stiff enough to hold up their own arms, they are often not stiff enough to hold up their full body weight (or any props). Making them stand, though, is easy enough. We used bamboo stakes or garden stakes paired with floral wire. Push the stake into the ground, place the skeleton legs against the stake (Image 1), and then secure with floral wire (Image 2 + 3). You could also use white zip ties, but since we were changing our skeleton's poses often, wire was easy to use and cost less. We also used the wire to attach any props to the skeleton (Image 4). For a few poses, we also used a bit of clear tape.
![How to Make a Posable Skeleton Stand](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-9035.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798131128.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
![How to Make a Posable Skeleton Stand](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-9034.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798123005.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
![How to Make a Posable Skeleton Stand](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-9037.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798160072.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
![How to Make a Posable Skeleton Stand](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-9033.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798112018.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
Props and Posing Tips
The best thing about these funny Halloween skeletons is that even posed alone with no props they are still funny. Think of a skeleton hanging from a tree, peeping over a fence, chasing another skeleton around the yard or just sitting on the porch. However, adding some props definitely ups the game: You can use small items you already have on hand, like rain boots and an umbrella, or pose a skeleton so it interacts with larger items, like your grill or lawn mower. The skeletons are easiest to pose standing if their hands are wired to a prop. These Halloween skeleton ideas are sure to give you lots of inspiration for your own boney creations.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Peeping Skeleton peeping over a fence.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-peeping1.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798501230.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
Halloween Skeleton Ideas
Ready to start decorating? These Halloween skeleton ideas are sure to give you lots of inspiration for your own bone-chilling creations.
1. Gardener Skeleton
We really dig this gardener skeleton complete with overalls and a plant. We just hope he doesn't work his fingers to the bone. Skeletons that are sitting or squatting, like this guy, can often be posed with no additional support, making it an easy option.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Gardener Skeleton dressed in overalls working in a garden](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_Halloween_Skeleton-Poses-gardener.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798077535.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
2. Bride and Groom Skeleton
It's 'til death do us part for this romantic duo. An inexpensive veil, faux flowers and a top hat and you have yourself the cutest (creepiest?) couple on the block. A metal fence provides simple support for these two skeletons.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Bride and Groom Skeletons dressed as a bride and groom](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_Halloween_Skeleton-Poses-bride-groom.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798028972.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
3. Sunbathing Skeleton
This boney buddy is working hard on his skele-tan. Place your skeleton in a lawn chair with a beach umbrella and some sunglasses so he can soak up rays. You could also lie him down on a beach towel with a cooler for a similar summer vibe.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Sunbathing Skeleton sitting in a sun chair with an umbrella and drink](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-sun-bathing.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798676158.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
4. Peeping Skeleton
An easy and quick pose, this skeleton has been caught "spine" on the neighbors. Wire the skeleton's hands to the fence making it appear that he is a peeping Tom.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Peeping Skeleton peeping over a fence.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-peeping1.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798501230.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
5. Porch Skeleton
This skeleton is an homage to the glory of crisp fall mornings. Adorn him with a beanie and blanket while he peruses the obituaries and sips his coffee in a cozy porch chair. He is a perfect option for a covered spot on a rainy day.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Front Porch Skeleton reading a magazine and drinking coffee](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_Halloween_Skeleton-Poses-porch.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798089482.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
6. Yogi Skeleton
While it isn't exactly the "corpse" pose, a handstanding skeleton is an easy yoga pose to master. Stakes and wire easily hold him vertical as his hands provide additional stability. You could also try other simple yoga poses like downward dog or warrior.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Skeleton doing a handstand in the front yard.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-headstand.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798412821.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
7. Grilling Skeleton
Turn your skeleton into a grill master by propping him up against a grill (We used wire to attach his hand to the handle.) and adding a chef's hat and apron. Spare ribs, anyone?
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Grilling Skeleton wearing apron and grilling](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-grilling.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798283211.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
8. Rainy Day Skeleton
How did the skeleton know it was going to rain? He could feel it in his bones! This skelly is ready for a rainy day. All you need is an umbrella and some rainboots. The articulating ankle joints make putting shoes onto the skeleton easy, and the height of the boots provides some extra stability, so this skeleton stands tall with minimal support. To attach the umbrella, we wired the handle to his hand and the top of the pole to his shoulder. His head supported the canopy.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Rainy Day Skeleton with an umbrella and wearing yellow rubber boots](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-rainy-day.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798550639.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
9. Skiing Skeleton
Old sporting equipment hiding in the back of your closet can lead to some super creative ideas for poses. This bone-chilling skeleton is ready for the slopes in skis, a scarf and a beanie. Wire his hands to the ski poles to make him sturdy. Dust some flour on the grass to create "snow." No skis? Try a sled instead!
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Skiing Skeleton wearing snow skis, a beanie and a scarf](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-skiing.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798652173.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
10. Fire Pit Skeleton
Fall is "bone-fire" season, so pull up a cozy chair and break out the marshmallows! Some roasting sticks, a cozy blanket and a roaring fire complete this hot look that required no additional bracing. This skeleton would be a perfect accent to a backyard Halloween party.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Bonfire Skeleton roasting marshmallows around a firepit](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_Halloween_Skeleton-Poses-bonfire.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694797970588.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
11. Captive Skeleton
No need to even step outside to create this hostage situation. Simply scrawl HELP on a piece of scrap paper or cardboard and place him inside a window. Use clear tape to invisibly hold his hands (and the sign) in place. Try out different "humerus" messages on the sign to keep the neighbors laughing.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Skeleton inside large window with a sign that says "help."](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-captive.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798219261.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
12. Santa Skeleton
Are you one of those folks who just rolls right from Halloween decor into Christmas decor? This one is for you. It's the most "bone-derful" time of the year for this skeleton. Wearing a Santa hat and holding a strand of Christmas lights, he's a little bit spooky and a little bit festive.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Santa Life-size skeleton wearing a Santa Hat and holding Christmas lights](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-santa.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798561347.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
13. Dining Room Skeleton
No Halloween dinner party should be complete without a guest of honor. Seat a skeleton at the head of a spooky tablescape for an unexpected and whimsical touch. "Bone" appetit!
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Dining Skeleton sitting at a styled Halloween table](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-tablescape-skeleton-poses-dining.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798724422.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
14. Hanging Skeleton
He's hanging on for dear life! Hang a skeleton from a gutter or an upper window. Attach S-hooks to his fingers with wire. Make it extra funny by placing a crooked ladder just out of his reach.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Skeleton hanging from a gutter on the front of a house.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-hanging-around.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798368884.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
15. Fishing Skeleton
What do skeletons fish for? Bonefish! A child's fishing rod is the perfect size for a posable skeleton. Add a fishing hat, life jacket and a net to reel in big laughs.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Fisherman Skeleton wearing a life jacket, sitting in a boat with fishing rod](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-fishing.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798256583.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
16. Swinging Skeleton
If you have a swing in your yard, this idea is low-hanging fruit. Just place your skeleton on the swing and let him hang around. You may need to wire his hands to the swing if you plan on leaving him through the season.
![Skeleton Poses Swing Skeleton on a swing](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_Halloween_Skeleton-Poses-swing.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798107380.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
17. Weightlifting Skeleton
He's been working on his deadlift, but he's having a hard time bulking up. We made this lightweight barbell out of a spare piece of PVC pipe, Styrofoam balls and some paint and then wired it to his hands.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Dead Lift Skeleton standing with barbell in a front yard](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-dead-lift.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798235116.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
18. Swimming Skeleton
Keep those summer vibes going strong all the way 'til Halloween with this pose. A kiddie pool and some goggles are all you need to make a big splash.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Swimming Skeleton sitting in a kiddie pool wearing a snorkel and floaties](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-swimming.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798695297.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
19. Mowing Skeleton
The neighbors will laugh their "grasses" off when they see this skeleton hard at work. This pose is particularly funny when you dress your skeleton in the quinessential mowing outfit, including jeans, a bandana and a sun hat.
![Halloween Skeleton Poses Mowing Life-sized skeleton wearing jeans and mowing a yard](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2023/9/15/1/Original_Jennie-Andrews_halloween-skeleton-poses-mowing.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.suffix/1694798468603.jpeg)
Jennie Andrews
No matter how you pose them, these hilarious skeleton ideas for Halloween are sure to tickle your funny bone.
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