Day 26: DIY Prop – Suspect Boards for Killer Photo Ops
Halloween is creeping closer, and it’s time to step up your murder mystery party props game! Day 26 of our countdown is all about one of the most fun (and most photographed) additions you can make to your party: DIY Suspect Boards.
These aren’t just decorations—they’re interactive mystery photo booth props that double as entertainment and unforgettable keepsakes. After all, what’s a Halloween murder mystery party without a few “mugshots” of your shady suspects?
Why Suspect Boards Are a Party Must
A murder suspect board instantly transforms any corner of your party into a mystery-themed photo booth. Here’s why you’ll want them:
- 🎭 Immersive Fun – Guests feel like they’ve stepped into the role of their character.
- 📸 Picture-Perfect – Provides hilarious and Instagram-worthy Halloween party photo ideas.
- 🕵️ Memorable Keepsakes – Everyone leaves with “evidence” of their night in mystery.
At Night of Mystery, we take things one step further—each of our party kits comes with professionally designed Suspect Boards tailored to the theme. But if you love a good DIY challenge, here’s how to create your own.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Sturdy foam board or poster board (black or white works best)
- White paint pen, vinyl letters, or chalk markers for text
- Ruler and pencil for spacing
- Optional: clip-on LED light or string lights for dramatic effect
- Camera or phone tripod for steady photos
How to Make DIY Suspect Boards
- Cut Your Board – Standard size is about 20×30 inches, but go larger if you want.
- Add the Height Lines – Use your ruler to mark horizontal lines every 6 inches, numbering from 4’ to 7’. This creates that “police lineup” feel.
- Write the Details – Add a “Department of Mystery” name, a case number, or even your party’s theme (e.g., “Margaritaland Police Dept.”).
- Customize for Characters – Leave a blank space where guests can write their character’s name or crime with chalk or dry-erase markers.
- Set the Stage – Hang the board on a wall or prop it on an easel in a well-lit corner of your party.
Budget-Friendly Hacks
- Use wrapping paper or a printed backdrop if foam board isn’t in the budget.
- Print premade templates (like those included in Night of Mystery kits!) to save time.
- Add accessories—fake handcuffs, magnifying glasses, feather boas—for extra flair.
How It Elevates Your Murder Mystery Party
Suspect boards aren’t just murder mystery party picture ideas—they become part of the investigation. Encourage guests to pose when they’re “accused” or “arrested.” Use the photos as evidence during the reveal, or post them to a shared album after the party so everyone can relive the night of mayhem.
Tomorrow’s Mystery Awaits…
Your guests will love striking a pose with their new “criminal record,” and it’s a guaranteed way to add laughs to the night. Tomorrow, we’re serving up something that will make your drinks as eerie as your décor—Day 27: Glow-in-the-Dark Tonic Cocktails. You won’t want to miss this one!
👉 Want more spine-chilling inspiration? Browse our Murder Mystery Party Kits and discover the professionally designed Suspect Boards we include with every theme.
✨ Share your DIY mugshots with us using #31DaysOfMystery #NightOfMystery #HalloweenCountdown #MurderMysteryParty
