Halloween is just around the corner, and while there's no shortage of pirate costumes, gory masks and creepy lawn ornaments, we thought we'd scare up some more creative decorations offered by area shops and museums. Here are some items we found:

1. String Witch Doll

Price:

$10

Where to get it:

Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, 443-573-1700

Why we like it:

Handmade in Thailand from one continuous piece of string, this delightful green doll is about 4 inches tall. She's topped with a felt hat and carries a little broom. She also comes with a message: "Witchy Woman. She helps you get where you're going as fast as witchily possible."

2. Tin green skeleton

Price:

$12

Where to get it:

American Visionary Art Museum gift shop, 800 Key Highway, 410-244-1900.

Why we like it:

More whimsical than frightening, this tin man is handmade in Mexico. Hang him on the porch to greet your trick-or-treaters with a cheerful tinkle.

3. Haunted House Table Decoration

Price:

$48

Where to get it:

In Watermelon Sugar, 3555 Chestnut Ave., Hampden, 410-662-9090

Why we like it:

Handmade by Nebraska artist Cody Foster, these spooky houses are made from cardboard and come complete with a front-yard cemetery and tiny tealights in the windows.