DIY Apothecary Halloween Decor

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There’s just something magical about October—when my cozy fall home decor shifts into spooky season mode. One of my favorite ways to decorate is with apothecary Halloween decor. A few old jars, some creepy printable labels, and a touch of imagination can instantly turn your shelves into a witch’s apothecary!

Witch’s apothecary Halloween jars made from thrift store bottles styled with corks, spider webs, and candles.

If you love a hands-on seasonal project, you might also want to try making these no-sew fabric pumpkins or follow my easy fall wreath tutorial for a little extra autumn charm.

This post is updated to include a free printable set of apothecary labels you can use to make your own potion bottles at home, since the originals shown here are no longer available.

Why Apothecary Halloween Decor Works

Apothecary jars instantly add an eerie, vintage vibe to your space. They’re versatile—you can line them up on a mantel, style them into a Halloween bar cart, or even use them as part of your color scheme for a themed party. I love mixing mine in with pumpkin displays, candles, and spider webs for extra atmosphere.

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Creepy potion bottle display styled with Mod Podge labels, candles, and a spooky Halloween color scheme.

What You’ll Need For This Decoupage Project

  • Glass jars or bottles (I often find them at Goodwill or other thrift stores)
  • Printable Halloween apothecary labels (grab my free set!)
  • Decoupage medium (a matte finish works best—Mod Podge is my go-to)
  • Craft brush
  • Rubbing alcohol & dishcloth (for prepping jars)
  • Scissors (to cut out labels)
  • Corks or lids to seal your bottles
  • Optional fillers: water + food coloring, faux moss, plastic spiders, spider webs, or anything creepy you have on hand.

Step-by-Step: DIY Apothecary Halloween Decor

Add colored water, faux insects, moss, or spooky trinkets to complete the look. You can even place jars under cloches, pair them with pumpkins, or nestle them among candles for a haunting effect.

  • Step 1 – Prep your bottles– Wash jars thoroughly, remove any stickers, and wipe down with rubbing alcohol so the labels will adhere smoothly.
  • Step 2 – Apply labels– Cut out your chosen printable apothecary labels. Brush a thin coat of Mod Podge or other decoupage medium where you want the label to go, then apply the label. Brush another light coat of medium over the top to seal it. (Tip: less is more—a little goes a long way.)
step1

decoupage-label
  • Step 3 – Smooth and dry– Wipe away excess medium with a damp cloth, being careful not to rub the label. Allow jars to dry for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results.
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wash-eyeballs

Step 4 – Fill with creepiness– Add colored water, faux insects, moss, or spooky trinkets to complete the look. You can even place jars under cloches, pair them with pumpkins, or nestle them among candles for a haunting effect.

Martha Stewart Halloween Apothecary labels- DIY Decoupage project. Make in minutes! fynesdesigns.com #MSHalloween

Tips for Styling Halloween Apothecary

For a subtle glow, tuck a strand of battery fairy lights around or under cloches.

  • Group jars in odd numbers for a more balanced display.
  • Place them on a tray, shelf, or even inside display cases for a curated look.
  • Mix different shapes and heights of bottles for interest.
  • Add texture with spider webs, cork stoppers, and candles for an authentic witch’s apothecary vibe.
Halloween vignette- DIY decoupage Apothecary jars #MSHalloween

FAQs About Apothecary Halloween Decor

Do I have to use glass jars?

No—plastic works too, but glass has a more authentic vintage look, especially with cork tops. Dollar Tree and Target Dollar Spot often have small jars that would work perfectly.

How do I make labels look aged?

Try brushing tea or coffee on the paper edges and allow to dry before applying.

Can I reuse the jars after Halloween?

Yes! The decoupage finish is durable but can be removed with warm water and scrubbing if you’d like to repurpose the jars. I keep mine tucked away with my other Halloween decorations to use year after year.

Where should I display them?

Mantels, bookshelves, bar carts, or tucked under cloches with candles for dramatic effect.

DIY Halloween Apothecary with Martha Stewart decoupage- *Tutorial* Create in 3 easy steps  #MSHalloween

Bring the Spooky Pharmacy Home

With just a few supplies, some Goodwill or thrift store finds, and my free printable apothecary labels, you can create budget-friendly Halloween decor that feels straight out of a witch’s workshop.

DIY apothecary Halloween decor with printable potion labels on glass jars filled with spooky ingredients.

Have fun creating your own creepy collection, and let me know in the comments what spooky “ingredients” you plan to put in your jars!

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13 Comments

  1. WOW! As usual, fantastic!

  2. See, this is what I get for not checking my email on time. I would have LOVED that set! What a great job. Totally envious. I want to steal them all.

  3. I love these jars! I’ve been wanting to make some of these for awhile now. Great to see all the creative ideas all of the #MSHalloween bloggers have come up with! Happy Halloween!

  4. Many Halloween decorations tend to be pretty tacky, but I really love this. It’s in the spirit of things, and it’s very classy. Thanks for sharing! I can’t wait to try this.

    1. THanks Tess! I agree on the tacky, its such a short season that you really need just a few statement decorations!

  5. Super cool! I made some spooky laboratory bottles, too, and I love them!! Thank you for linking up at Snickerdoodle Sunday and hope to see you again this weekend. 🙂

    Sarah (Sadie Seasongoods)

  6. It would not open the pdf file to download.

  7. I tried to download the labels and it seems to be a damaged pdf file – can’t see any labels. Just wanted you to know the link doesn’t seem to work. They look so good!

    1. THanks for the heads up Faye. Should be resolved now! Happy Halloween