Trunk or treat events offer a creative alternative to traditional trick-or-treating, transforming the back of a vehicle into a themed display. Among the most recognizable and enjoyable themes is the beloved Cookie Monster, whose simple, furry design translates well to a car trunk setup. This guide provides instructions for building a memorable and structurally sound display that captures the character’s enthusiastic appetite. Focusing on accessible materials and straightforward construction techniques ensures the project is fun to create, utilizing the trunk’s natural opening to simulate the monster’s wide, cookie-craving mouth.
Gathering Supplies and Planning the Layout
Successful execution begins with gathering the right materials and taking precise measurements of the vehicle’s trunk opening. Primary supplies include a large sheet of rigid foam board or corrugated plastic sheeting to serve as the structural base for the face. Approximately three to four yards of inexpensive, bright blue faux fur or flannel fabric will provide the signature texture and color, depending on the size of the vehicle. For the eyes, acquire two large white poster boards and two smaller black poster boards, or purchase two oversized novelty googly eyes, often measuring 12 to 18 inches in diameter.
Structural attachment requires heavy-duty tools like a hot glue gun with ample glue sticks, strong black or blue duct tape for reinforcement, and bungee cords or thick zip ties for securing the final piece. Before any construction, measure the height and width of the trunk opening while it is fully open, noting the precise dimensions the face must cover. This initial planning determines the final size of the foam board base and the necessary fabric yardage.
Constructing the Cookie Monster Face
Begin by cutting the foam board base into a rough, irregular oval shape that slightly exceeds the pre-measured dimensions of the trunk opening. This allows the face to overlap the edges of the trunk, creating a more immersive and three-dimensional effect once mounted. Once the base shape is established, drape the blue faux fur or fabric over the board, ensuring the texture runs in a consistent direction for a uniform appearance. Secure the fabric to the back edges of the foam board using a heavy-duty hot glue gun, pulling the material taut to prevent sagging or wrinkling on the front surface.
The mouth opening is central to the design and should be cut into the foam board before the fabric is attached, creating a large, horizontal crescent shape. After the blue fur is applied, carefully cut the fabric over the mouth opening and fold the edges inward, gluing them to the back of the foam board to create a clean, finished edge. This black void of the mouth provides the perfect contrast to the blue fur and serves as the functional entryway for the treat delivery system.
Next, focus on creating the monster’s distinctive, off-centered eyes. If using poster board, cut two large white circles (about 15 inches) and two smaller black circles (about 6 inches) for the pupils. Glue the black pupils slightly askew onto the white circles to give the eyes an excited look, avoiding a perfectly centered placement. Affix the completed eyes to the upper portion of the blue face using a generous amount of hot glue and duct tape reinforcement. Positioning the eyes close together and slightly higher than the center enhances the cartoonish proportions of the character.
Incorporating the Cookie Treat Delivery System
The functional element of the trunk or treat display centers on making the act of receiving candy look like a fun interaction with the monster. One effective method is creating a simple chute system hidden within the black mouth opening, directing the candy toward the hands of the waiting children. Construct this chute using a lightweight, rigid material like cardboard tubing or a section of PVC gutter downspout, sized to fit discreetly inside the mouth. Angle the chute so that treats dropped in the back of the trunk slide forward and out the bottom lip of the mouth opening, allowing for easy retrieval.
Another approach is to utilize the entire base of the trunk as a functional serving tray, which is especially effective for larger vehicles with deep trunk spaces. Line the floor of the trunk with a large, clean, dark-colored cloth to simulate the inside of the monster’s throat and place the treats directly on this surface. This allows children to reach into the mouth opening to retrieve their candy, making the interaction tactile and fun.
To visually enhance the theme, create several large, faux cookies out of brown felt or cardboard, adding small brown or black circle cutouts for the chocolate chips. These decorative elements can be strategically placed around the mouth opening, glued to the blue fur, or hung from the inside of the trunk lid. The use of these lightweight props maintains the illusion without adding significant structural weight to the display.
Securing the Display and Event Safety
Attaching the constructed foam board face securely to the vehicle is the final, safety-focused step before the event begins. Use strong, adjustable bungee cords or ratchet straps, looping them through holes poked near the edges of the foam board and securing them around the inside frame of the trunk lid. Alternatively, heavy-duty magnetic strips with adhesive backing can be used on the foam board to attach the display directly to the metal of the trunk’s inner surface.
Ensure the display does not obstruct the driver’s view or cover the vehicle’s taillights or license plate if the trunk must remain closed or partially open for transport to the event. On the event site, confirm that all electrical wires for any optional lighting are safely tucked away and secured with tape to prevent tripping hazards for children. Position the vehicle in a way that provides clear, level access for children, ensuring the treat delivery area is easily reachable and stable throughout the event. The stability of the display is crucial for safety, especially in high-traffic areas.