18. Gothic Stone Archway
Make a grand, dramatic statement by building a gothic stone archway over your front gate or entryway. This impressive architectural feature looks like heavy, ancient masonry, but it is actually constructed from lightweight cardboard boxes and carved pool noodle “stones.”
Build the basic arch structure using large cardboard boxes taped securely together. To create the realistic stone facade, slice grey pool noodles in half lengthwise, and then cut them into rectangular block shapes. Glue these foam blocks across the entire surface of the cardboard arch, leaving small gaps between them to represent mortar lines. Spray the entire arch with textured stone spray paint in shades of grey and charcoal. Highlight the edges with a lighter grey paint to give the “stones” a weathered, three-dimensional look. Drape the finished arch with faux ivy and cobwebs for an unforgettable entrance.