DIY Happy Fall Scarecrow Magnet with Paint Sticks

Fall is the ideal time of year to get artsy, creative, and comfortable. This paint stick-made DIY Happy Fall Scarecrow Magnet is the ideal way to greet the fall season if you enjoy rustic décor, tiny seasonal projects, or a fun afternoon pastime. It’s simple, affordable, and great for both kids and adults. Let’s jump in!

Why Make a Scarecrow Magnet for Fall?

Fall is a time of warm weather, nostalgic customs, and vibrant hues. One of the most iconic symbols of autumn is the scarecrow, which was traditionally used to protect crops but is now beloved as a cheerful decoration that evokes the spirit of harvest time and rural charm. Creating a scarecrow magnet is a creative way to bring this timeless symbol into your home or workspace in a small, manageable form.

Here’s why making a scarecrow magnet is a fantastic fall craft:

Compact and Convenient: Unlike larger decorations, these magnets fit perfectly on refrigerators, lockers, or any magnetic surface, adding seasonal cheer without clutter.
Family-Friendly Activity: This simple craft is suitable for all ages, making it perfect for family bonding or classroom projects.
Personalized Seasonal Décor: Handmade scarecrow magnets add a unique, cozy touch that store-bought decorations can’t match.
Budget-Friendly and Eco-Friendly: Utilizing repurposed paint sticks and simple supplies helps keep costs low while promoting sustainable practices through upcycling.
Mindful and Creative: Crafting these magnets provides a relaxing and creative outlet to celebrate the season intentionally.

Key takeaway: Creating a scarecrow magnet for fall is an easy, space-saving way to celebrate the season, personalize your décor, and enjoy a fun, budget-friendly craft that everyone can participate in.

What You’ll Need: Simple Supplies for a Budget-Friendly Craft

One of the best aspects of this DIY Happy Fall Scarecrow Magnet project is how easily and affordably it is to gather the supplies. You likely already have many of these items at home, or you can find them inexpensively at local craft or hardware stores. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need, along with some helpful tips for sourcing and substituting materials:

Paint Stick (or Craft Stick): Paint sticks are perfect for the base of your scarecrow due to their sturdy, flat surface and ideal size. You can often find leftover paint sticks for free at local hardware stores or home improvement centers. If paint sticks aren’t available, jumbo craft sticks work well, too—they just might be slightly smaller.
Acrylic Paints: Choose fall-inspired colors like tan or beige for the face, orange for the nose, and black and white for facial details. Use warm tones like red, brown, or green for the hat. Acrylic paint dries quickly, providing bright, lasting color. You only need small amounts, so a beginner’s paint set works fine.
Small Square of Burlap or Fabric: This will become the scarecrow’s hat. Burlap adds a rustic, farmhouse vibe, but you can substitute it with any fabric scraps, such as felt, cotton, or even an old piece of flannel. If you don’t have fabric, consider using colored paper or felt sheets from a craft store.
Googly Eyes or Black Buttons: Adding googly eyes gives the scarecrow a playful look. If you don’t have googly eyes, small black buttons, or simply painted eyes will work just as well.
Hot Glue Gun or Craft Glue: You’ll need a strong adhesive to attach the fabric hat, eyes, and magnet securely. Hot glue is ideal for a firm hold, but craft glue works well for kids or more delicate materials—allow extra drying time.
Small Magnet: Choose a flat magnet that’s strong enough to hold the scarecrow on metal surfaces. Magnets can be salvaged from old fridge magnets or purchased cheaply in craft sections.
Scissors: For cutting the paint stick to size and trimming the fabric hat.
Thin Twine, Raffia, or Yarn (Optional): These materials add extra decorative touches, like a bow tie or straw-like hair, enhancing the scarecrow’s personality.

Tips for Sourcing Supplies:

Reuse and Upcycle: Before buying new materials, check your recycling bin or craft drawer for leftover paint sticks, fabric scraps, or old magnets.
Dollar Stores: Great places to find inexpensive googly eyes, magnets, and craft glue.
Hardware Stores: Often have free or cheap paint sticks if you ask the staff or look near the paint mixing stations.

This simple, budget-friendly supply list makes this craft accessible for everyone, whether you’re crafting solo, with kids, or as part of a group activity.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Build Your Paint Stick Scarecrow

Creating your own Happy Fall Scarecrow Magnet is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to transform basic supplies into a charming fall decoration:

Prepare and Cut the Paint Stick: Trim the paint stick to approximately 5 to 6 inches in length, an ideal size for your magnet. Sand any sharp edges for a smooth finish, and use scissors or a tiny saw sparingly.
Paint the Base Colors: Paint the lower portion of the stick tan or beige for the face. Let it dry completely, then paint the top part in a fall color, such as orange, brown, or deep red, to create the hat. Add texture or streaks for a rustic effect. Allow drying between layers.
Add Facial Features: Glue on googly eyes or paint eyes using black and white paint. For the nose, paint a tiny orange triangle. Use black paint or a fine-point marker to draw a stitched smile, freckles, or rosy cheeks to add personality.
Create and Attach the Hat: Cut a small piece of burlap or fabric into a square or triangle shape. Fold and shape it as a hat, then glue it to the top of the paint stick. Add a raffia bow or glue a faux leaf on the hat for extra charm.
Add Final Details: If desired, glue thin twine or raffia to mimic straw hair or a scarf. Add paint patches or tiny buttons to customize your scarecrow.
Attach the Magnet: Once everything is dry, glue a small flat magnet to the back of the paint stick. Center the magnet for good balance on metal surfaces.

Drying and Display Tips

Let your scarecrow dry thoroughly—overnight drying is best. Then place it on your fridge, locker, or any magnetic surface for a cozy fall accent.

Key takeaway: These easy-to-follow steps help you create a personalized, charming scarecrow magnet that brings warmth and fun to your fall décor.

Creative Decorating Tips: Give Your Scarecrow Some Personality

One of the best parts of this craft is making your scarecrow truly your own. Small details can bring out lots of character and make each magnet unique. Here are some simple ideas to inspire your creativity:

Play with Fabric Choices: Instead of just burlap, try using plaid, denim, or flannel scraps for the hat to give your scarecrow a cozy, rustic vibe. Mixing textures adds visual interest.
Add Fun Accessories: Glue on mini buttons, tiny leaves, or small pieces of twine as hair or scarves. A little bow or patch can make your scarecrow feel extra charming.
Paint Details for Expression: Use paint or markers to create freckles, rosy cheeks, eyelashes, or a stitched smile. Different facial expressions give your scarecrow personality—from cheerful to shy or silly.
Use Seasonal Embellishments: Add small faux pumpkins, acorns, or even tiny pinecones, glued to the hat or body, for a truly fall feel.
Mix and Match Colors: To capture the spirit of fall, try warm autumn tones like burnt orange, deep red, mustard yellow, and earthy browns for your paint and decorations.

Encourage kids or friends to experiment with these ideas to create a whole family of unique scarecrows, each with its look and story.

Fun Ways to Display Your Fall Scarecrow Magnet

Once your scarecrow magnet is complete, there are plenty of creative ways to show it off and spread some fall cheer around your home or workspace:

Fridge Décor: Stick your scarecrow on the refrigerator alongside other seasonal magnets and family photos to create a festive fall collage.
Office or Classroom: Brighten up your workspace or classroom whiteboard by adding a touch of autumn with your handmade magnet.
Magnetic Doors and Lockers: Give lockers, filing cabinets, or magnetic doors a cozy seasonal upgrade.
Gift Ideas: Attach your scarecrow magnet to a small gift bag or use it as a cute party favor for teachers, neighbors, or friends.
Photo Holders: Use the magnet to hold up fall-themed recipes, notes, or family photos, combining function with festive décor.

Key takeaway: Your scarecrow magnet is a versatile and charming decoration that can brighten any magnetic surface and make a thoughtful, handmade gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use jumbo craft sticks instead of paint sticks?

Yes! Jumbo sticks work well and don’t require cutting.

What glue is best for attaching the magnet?

Hot glue provides a strong hold, but craft glue also works, provided you allow sufficient drying time.

Can kids make this on their own?

With some supervision (especially for cutting and gluing), it’s a great activity for kids.

How long does it take to make one scarecrow magnet?

Approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on the drying time and any additional details.

What other fall characters can I make with paint sticks?

Try pumpkins, black cats, turkeys, or even little pilgrims for variety!

Conclusion

This DIY Happy Fall Scarecrow Magnet is a quick, joyful way to celebrate the season. It’s easy to make, full of charm, and perfect for all ages. Whether you’re crafting with kids, decorating your home, or making heartfelt gifts, this little scarecrow is sure to bring a smile.