Introduction: Ensure Trick-or-Treaters Only Take One From the Please-Take-One Bowl

I have a daughter. She's almost 3. A Halloween dilemma that I have in my house this year is whether to go trick-or-treating with her and my wife or to stay home and give out candy. If I go with my daughter and wife then I would need to leave a "just take one" bowl on the porch and hope that the neighborhood kids have some semblance of honesty. I decided I would make a deterrent to keep the candy distribution to one piece per trick-or-treater.

This Instructable shows you how to create a quick, cheap, and easy solution to the "just take one" bowl pillaging that the neighborhood kids are capable of. By creating a convincing sign to put near your candy bowl you can limit your candy loses.

Step 1: Materials and Supplies

In addition to the actual bowl of candy, you'll need:
  • Computer with word-processing software
  • Printer
  • Spray adhesive
  • Cardboard
  • Paint stirring stick
  • White glue
  • Razor knife

Step 2: Messaging and Signage

First you want to create your message using word processing software. Start with "Please, only take one" a the top of the page. Underline the word one. It emphasizes that they shouldn't take more than one. Now you'll want to explain why they shouldn't take more than one. Don't bother saying there is a camera watching the bowl. The kids are in costumes. So even if there really was a camera if wouldn't show anything more than a werewolf stuffing a handful of Snickers in his pants. The kids will be able to tell you're lying. Try to play to children's fears. They're afraid of death, losing their cell phones, Facebook hacking...stuff like that. Be creative.

You can also add some spooky clipart to really make your sign pop.

Format so it takes up about half a page and print it out.

(You can download the pre-prepared sign attached.)

Step 3: Mounting the Sign

Using spray adhesive, mount the sign on a sheet of cardboard. Smooth it out to remove any air bubbles. Allow it to dry.

Step 4: Add a Stick

Trim excess paper and cardboard from the sign using a razor blade.
Glue a wooden paint stick to the back of the sign. Allow to dry.

Step 5: Display the Please-take-one Bowl

During trick-or-treat hours, place a bowl of candy on your front porch. Place the sign near or in the bowl of candy.

Halloween Decorations Challenge

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