When October rolls around, nothing captures the playful spookiness of Halloween quite like ghost decorations. These floating, ethereal figures have become iconic symbols of the season, offering the perfect balance of not-too-scary fun that kids absolutely love. The best part? Creating your own Halloween ghost crafts with children isn’t just budget-friendly—it’s a fantastic way to spark creativity and build excitement for the holiday.
Whether you’re looking for classroom activities, rainy day projects, or ways to deck out your home with handmade Halloween charm, ghost crafts deliver versatile options for crafters of all ages and skill levels. From simple tissue paper ghosts that toddlers can manage to more elaborate yard displays that will impress the neighbors, these ghostly creations are guaranteed to become cherished Halloween traditions.
5 Easy Halloween Ghost Crafts Kids Will Love
Ready to conjure up some not-so-spooky spirits with your little ones? These five ghost crafts use simple materials you likely already have around the house, making them perfect for last-minute Halloween activities that won’t break the bank.
1. Classic Floating Tissue Ghosts
This timeless ghost craft remains popular for good reason—it’s incredibly simple yet wonderfully effective. The delicate tissue creates that perfect ethereal ghost look that actually seems to float in the air.
You’ll need: White tissue paper, black marker, string or fishing line, and a small ball of cotton or wadded paper for the head.
How to make it: Place the cotton ball in the center of a tissue sheet. Gather the tissue around it, twist slightly below the “head,” and tie with string. Draw simple ghost eyes and mouth with black marker. Hang from ceilings, doorways, or tree branches for a ghostly effect that sways with the slightest breeze.
2. Handprint Ghost Garland
This craft doubles as a keepsake, preserving those adorable little handprints while creating a festive decoration.
You’ll need: White construction paper, black marker, scissors, and string.
How to make it: Trace each child’s hand on white paper and cut out the shapes. Draw ghost faces on the palm portion of each handprint. Punch holes at the base of each “ghost” and string them together to create a charming ghost garland perfect for mantels, windows, or classroom displays.
3. Glowing Ghost Jars
These illuminated ghost decorations create a magical nighttime effect that kids find absolutely mesmerizing.
You’ll need: Clean glass jars, white tissue paper or white paint, black construction paper, glue, scissors, and battery-operated tea lights.
How to make it: Either paint the jars white or cover them with white tissue paper and glue. Cut ghost eyes and mouths from black construction paper and attach to the jars. Place LED tea lights inside for a spooky glow that’s perfectly safe for children. These make excellent Halloween night luminaries for walkways or tabletop decorations.
4. Cheesecloth Ghosts
For a slightly more sophisticated ghost with wonderful texture, cheesecloth creates the perfect wispy, ethereal look.
You’ll need: Cheesecloth, liquid starch or white glue diluted with water, balloons, black buttons or felt, and string.
How to make it: Blow up balloons to your desired ghost size. Dip cheesecloth in liquid starch or glue mixture, then drape over the balloons. Let dry completely (usually overnight). Pop and remove the balloons. Attach black buttons or felt pieces for eyes. Hang with fishing line for a truly ghostly effect that seems to float in mid-air.
5. Lollipop Ghosts
These adorable ghost treats double as decorations and sweet surprises—perfect for Halloween parties or classroom celebrations.
You’ll need: Round lollipops, white tissues or small white handkerchiefs, rubber bands or ribbon, and a black marker.
How to make it: Place a lollipop in the center of a tissue. Gather the tissue around the candy, leaving the stick exposed. Secure with a rubber band or ribbon just below the candy. Draw ghost faces on the front. Display in a decorative jar or hand out as party favors. These edible ghost decorations are always a hit with kids!
Halloween Ghost Decoration Tips for Success
While these ghost crafts are wonderfully simple, a few expert tips can help ensure your Halloween ghost decorations turn out hauntingly perfect every time.
Choosing the Right Materials
Not all white fabrics and papers are created equal when it comes to ghost crafts. The material you choose significantly impacts the final look of your Halloween ghost decoration.
For indoor ghost decorations, tissue paper, printer paper, and lightweight fabrics like gauze work beautifully. If you’re creating outdoor ghost decorations, however, you’ll want to opt for weather-resistant materials like plastic tablecloths, lightweight white shower curtains, or even old white pillowcases that can withstand a bit of wind and weather.
Remember that the sheerer the material, the more ethereal and ghostly your creation will appear—especially when backlit or in motion. This is why professionals often choose materials like cheesecloth for that perfect ghostly effect.
Creating the Perfect Ghost Face
The expression you give your ghost can completely change its character—from friendly and cute to genuinely spooky. For younger children, stick with simple round eyes and happy smiles for ghost Halloween decorations that won’t frighten them.
For a more traditional spooky look, oval eyes with downturned mouths create that classic “wooooo” expression. If you’re feeling artistic, try cutting different eye shapes from black felt rather than just drawing them—the dimensional effect adds wonderful depth to your ghost decor for Halloween.
Pro tip: Less is more when it comes to ghost faces. Two simple eyes can often be more effective than elaborate facial features. This minimalist approach actually makes your ghost decorations look more authentic and eerie.
Displaying Your Ghost Creations
Where and how you display your ghost for Halloween decor can dramatically enhance their impact. For hanging ghosts, varying the heights creates visual interest and makes them appear to be floating at different levels. Try hanging some from trees, others from porch ceilings, and perhaps a few peeking out from bushes.
For glowing ghost decorations, strategic lighting makes all the difference. Place LED lights behind or underneath your ghosts to create dramatic silhouettes. For outdoor displays, consider using solar-powered stake lights beneath ground-level ghosts for an energy-efficient spooky glow that automatically activates at dusk.
Group your ghosts in odd numbers (3, 5, or 7) for the most visually appealing arrangements—this is a designer’s trick that creates more natural-looking displays than even-numbered groupings.
Taking Your Halloween Ghost Crafts to the Next Level
Once you’ve mastered these basic ghost crafts, you might be ready for some more advanced ghost decoration for Halloween projects that will truly impress trick-or-treaters and party guests alike.
For a truly spectacular yard display, consider creating life-sized sheet ghosts using tomato cages as the structure. Simply place a white sheet over a tomato cage, add a styrofoam ball or balloon for the head, secure with rope or twine at the “neck,” and add a face. Position several of these throughout your yard for a ghostly gathering that’s visible even from a distance.
Want something truly unique? Try creating ghost silhouettes for windows using black construction paper cut into ghostly shapes and taped to windows. When your indoor lights are on at night, these create dramatic shadows that can be seen from the street—a simple yet effective ghost Halloween decoration technique that uses minimal materials.
DIY Halloween Ghost Decor Ideas
When it comes to creating the perfect spooky atmosphere, nothing beats handmade ghost decorations. These ethereal figures can transform any space into a haunted haven, and the best part? You don’t need to be a crafting expert to create impressive Halloween ghost decor that will have the neighborhood talking.
Why Make Your Own Ghost Decorations?
Creating your own ghost decorations allows for complete personalization – you control how scary or friendly your ghosts appear. Plus, DIY ghost decor for Halloween typically costs a fraction of store-bought options, leaving more room in your budget for candy and halloween costumes. Most importantly, crafting together creates lasting memories and family traditions that children will remember long after the holiday has passed.
Essential Materials for Halloween Ghost Crafts
Before diving into your ghostly creations, gather these basic supplies that form the foundation of most Halloween ghost decorations:
- White sheets, cheesecloth, or muslin fabric (the more worn, the better!)
- Balloons, foam balls, or tomato cages for structure
- Black markers, fabric paint, or felt for faces
- Fishing line or clear thread for hanging ghosts
- LED tea lights for creating glowing effects
- Basic craft supplies: scissors, glue, tape, and wire
Giant Yard Ghosts That Wow
Make a dramatic statement with oversized ghost decorations for Halloween that will stop traffic and delight trick-or-treaters. These impressive creations are surprisingly simple to make but deliver maximum impact.
Start with a tomato cage as your base structure – flip it upside down so the wider part is at the top. Drape a king-sized white sheet over the entire cage, allowing excess fabric to pool dramatically on the ground. Secure a balloon or foam ball at the top to create a defined head, then use black felt to craft expressive eyes. For added drama, position a small fan behind your ghost to create gentle movement on breezy October nights.
Pro tip: Use glow-in-the-dark fabric paint to outline your ghost’s features for an extra spooky effect after dark. These yard ghosts work particularly well in groups of three, creating the illusion of a ghostly gathering on your lawn.
Floating Indoor Ghosts
Create an otherworldly atmosphere inside your home with ghosts that appear to float mysteriously in mid-air. These ghost Halloween decorations add instant ambiance to any room.
For the classic floating ghost, inflate a small white balloon and cover it with a square of cheesecloth or gauze that’s about three times larger than the balloon. Secure the fabric around the balloon with clear fishing line, leaving the excess to drape down like a ghostly body. Add a simple face with black marker or small pieces of black felt, then hang from the ceiling using clear fishing line.
For a more dramatic effect, create a ghost swarm by hanging multiple ghosts at varying heights. The key to making this look professional is using fishing line or clear thread that virtually disappears, creating the illusion that your ghosts are truly floating unsupported through your home.
Illuminated Ghost Decorations
Adding light elements to your ghost decorations transforms them from simple to spectacular. These glowing ghost Halloween decorations create magical effects after dark.
Create ghost luminaries by covering glass jars with white tissue paper secured with decoupage glue. Cut simple ghost faces from black construction paper and attach them to the jars. Place battery-operated tea lights inside for a safe, flickering glow. Line these along walkways or cluster them on mantels for a ghostly glow that’s both spooky and sophisticated.
For a show-stopping window display, create “ghost silhouettes” by taping white fabric to window frames and positioning a bright light behind them. Cut eyes from black paper and attach them to the fabric. From outside, passersby will see glowing ghost figures watching from your windows – a classic ghost decoration for Halloween that never fails to impress.
Halloween Ghost Shadows: Creating Spooky Effects
Take your Halloween ghost decorations to the next level by playing with light and shadow. These techniques create dramatic, immersive effects that transform your entire space into a haunted experience.
Creating Ghostly Projections
Shadow play is one of the most effective ways to create truly spooky ghost decorations for Halloween. These techniques use simple materials but create professional-looking effects.
For basic ghost shadows, cut ghost silhouettes from black cardstock or poster board. Attach these cutouts to the front of a flashlight or lamp, and aim at a blank wall to project giant ghost shadows. For more sophisticated effects, position a bright lamp behind a white sheet with ghost cutouts attached to create shadowy apparitions that seem to float across your walls.
Digital projectors offer endless possibilities for ghost Halloween decorations. Many affordable Halloween projection systems are available that can display moving ghost images across your home’s exterior. Alternatively, create your own animated ghost sequence using presentation software and project it through windows or onto garage doors for an impressive display that appears professionally designed.
Interactive Ghost Decorations
Take your ghost decor for Halloween to the next level by adding interactive elements that surprise and delight visitors. These ghost decorations respond to movement or sound, creating memorable experiences.
Create motion-activated ghosts by attaching lightweight ghost figures to fishing line strung across walkways at head height. When triggered by approaching visitors, the ghosts appear to “fly” toward them. For a high-tech version, incorporate motion sensors connected to small fans that activate when someone approaches, causing your ghost decorations to suddenly move and “come alive.”
Sound-responsive ghost decorations add another dimension of interactivity. Connect small speakers playing ghostly sounds to your decorations, or use smart home devices to trigger spooky audio when motion is detected near your ghost displays. These multi-sensory experiences transform simple ghost Halloween decorations into immersive haunted attractions.
Ghost Costumes: Becoming the Decoration
Why just decorate with ghosts when you can become one? Ghost costumes remain perennially popular for Halloween because they’re easy to create yet offer endless possibilities for personalization and creativity.
Classic Sheet Ghost Costumes
The traditional sheet ghost costume has been a Halloween staple for generations, but with a few clever modifications, this simple concept can become truly impressive.
For the perfect sheet ghost, start with a lightweight white sheet (twin size works well for most people). Cut eyeholes slightly larger than needed, then reinforce the edges with fabric glue to prevent tearing. Create structure by wearing a baseball cap underneath – this keeps the sheet from collapsing onto your face and helps maintain that classic ghost silhouette.
Want something more elaborate? Try a layered ghost costume using multiple sheer white fabrics of different textures. Combine cheesecloth, gauze, and lightweight cotton for a dimensional ghost effect with beautiful movement. Add subtle details like frayed edges or strategic tatters for an “aged” appearance that suggests your ghost has been haunting for centuries.
Modern Ghost Costume Ideas
Contemporary ghost costumes go beyond the simple sheet while maintaining that iconic ghostly essence. These updated interpretations make perfect ghost Halloween costumes for those wanting something more fashion-forward.
Create a “Victorian ghost” by wearing all white clothing with vintage styling – high collars, lace details, and period-appropriate silhouettes. Add white face makeup with subtle gray shading around the eyes, and dust hair with temporary white spray. This elegant ghost interpretation offers a sophisticated alternative to traditional ghost costumes.
For a unique twist, try a “ghost bride” or “ghost groom” costume using thrifted formal wear in all white. Add tattered edges, subtle gray airbrushing to suggest age and otherworldliness, and perhaps a vintage veil or top hat. This concept works beautifully for couples’ costumes and can be as elaborate or simple as you prefer.
Group Ghost Costumes
Ghost themes work wonderfully for family or group costumes, allowing for coordinated looks while accommodating different ages and preferences. These ghost Halloween costumes create maximum impact when seen together.
Create a “ghost family through the ages” with each person representing a ghost from a different historical period – a Victorian ghost, a 1920s flapper ghost, a 1950s greaser ghost, and so on. Unify the look with consistent white/gray color palettes and makeup, while varying the clothing styles to represent different eras.
For a playful twist, try a “ghost emotions” theme where each person represents a different ghostly mood – the happy ghost, the sad ghost, the angry ghost, etc. Use simple white base costumes with expressive face paint or masks to distinguish each character. This concept works particularly well for families with young children who might find traditional “scary” ghost costumes too frightening.
Looking for a truly unique group costume? Consider a “ghost of Christmas past/present/future” theme inspired by Dickens’ classic tale. Each ghost can have distinctive accessories while maintaining a cohesive ghostly appearance through white clothing and ethereal makeup effects.
Conclusion
Whether you’re crafting simple paper ghosts with children or creating elaborate yard displays that wow the neighborhood, ghost decorations offer endless creative possibilities for Halloween. The beauty of ghost decor lies in its versatility – these ethereal figures can be adorably cute or genuinely spine-chilling depending on your preference. By combining different techniques and materials, you can create a haunted atmosphere that perfectly matches your Halloween vision while making memories that last long after the decorations are packed away.
Halloween Ghost Crafts: 5 Easy DIY Projects For Kids
Ghost crafts aren’t just for adults – they’re perfect for little hands too! These kid-friendly ghost projects are simple enough for children to create with minimal supervision but impressive enough to proudly display as part of your Halloween ghost decorations.
Tissue Paper Ghosts
These adorable ghost decorations for Halloween require just a few basic supplies and can be completed in under 30 minutes. Start with a wadded-up piece of tissue paper or cotton ball for the head. Drape a square of white tissue paper over it and secure with a rubber band or string around the “neck.” Let kids decorate the faces with markers or googly eyes. Once dry, hang these cute ghost Halloween decorations from doorways, windows, or a special “ghost tree” made from branches in a vase.
For a variation that younger children will love, try using lollipops as the base. Simply drape tissue paper over the candy, secure with a ribbon, and add a face. These “ghost lollipops” double as treats and ghost decor for Halloween parties!
Handprint Ghosts
Transform little handprints into adorable ghost Halloween decorations with this craft that doubles as a keepsake. Have children press their hands onto white paper or fabric paint and then onto black construction paper. Once dry, add simple ghost faces to the palm area of each handprint. The fingers become the wispy, waving bottom of each ghost.
Create a family ghost display by including handprints from everyone in the household, from the smallest baby to adults. Label each with names and dates for a ghost decoration for Halloween that captures a moment in time and can be treasured for years to come.
Milk Jug Ghosts
Recycle empty milk jugs into glowing ghost decorations for Halloween that look spectacular at night. Wash and dry plastic gallon milk jugs, then use black permanent markers to draw simple ghost faces on the side opposite the handle. Cut a small hole in the bottom of each jug and insert battery-operated tea lights. Place these ghost Halloween decorations along walkways or porch steps for a spooky nighttime display.
For daytime appeal, let kids personalize their ghost decorations with unique facial expressions or by adding accessories like paper bow ties or hats. A collection of these ghost decor for Halloween creations with different “personalities” creates a charming ghostly community in your yard.
Paper Plate Ghosts
Paper plates transform into flying ghost Halloween decorations with just a few simple steps. Give each child a white paper plate and have them draw a ghost face on one side. Cut three or four 2-foot strips of white crepe paper or streamers. Staple or glue these to the bottom of the plate to create flowing “tails.” Punch a hole at the top and hang with fishing line to create the illusion of floating ghost decorations.
Encourage creativity by letting kids experiment with different ghost expressions – some silly, some spooky, some surprised. These ghost Halloween decorations can be hung at varying heights in a doorway or from a porch ceiling to create a playful ghost gathering that moves gently in the breeze.
Ghost Puppet Craft
Create interactive ghost decorations for Halloween that double as toys with this simple puppet craft. Cut ghost shapes from white felt or heavy paper, approximately 8 inches tall. Let children decorate their ghost with permanent markers, googly eyes, or felt scraps. Attach a craft stick to the bottom as a handle, or thread string through the top to create a marionette-style puppet.
These ghost Halloween decorations can be displayed in a decorative pot filled with floral foam when not in use. During Halloween gatherings, kids can use them for impromptu ghost puppet shows, adding an interactive element to your ghost decor for Halloween.
Halloween Ghost Parties: Hosting a Spooktacular Event
Take your love of ghost Halloween decorations to the next level by hosting a ghost-themed party that incorporates your handmade decorations. A ghostly gathering offers the perfect opportunity to showcase your creative ghost decor while creating memorable experiences for guests of all ages.
Ghost-Themed Food and Drinks
Complement your ghost decorations for Halloween with themed refreshments that continue the spectral motif. Create ghost-shaped cookies using simple round cookie cutters with the bottom pulled out slightly to create a ghostly tail. Decorate with white icing and black food coloring for faces. For a savory option, use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to make ghostly sandwiches or cheese slices.
Beverages can join the fun too – serve “ghost punch” by floating scoops of vanilla ice cream in white fruit punch or lemonade. For adults, create “ghostinis” with white chocolate liqueur and cream. Display these treats near your ghost Halloween decorations for a cohesive theme throughout your event.
Ghost Games and Activities
Entertain guests with ghost-themed games that complement your ghost decor for Halloween. Set up a “ghost bowling” station using white-painted plastic bottles with ghost faces as pins and a small pumpkin as the ball. Create a ghost scavenger hunt by hiding small ghost decorations throughout your space and offering prizes for the most found.
For a creative activity, set up a ghost decoration station where guests can make their own ghost Halloween decorations to take home. Provide pre-cut ghost shapes, decorative materials, and examples of your own ghost decorations for inspiration. This interactive element creates lasting memories while letting everyone contribute to the ghostly atmosphere.
Creating a Ghost Photo Booth
Design a ghost-themed photo area where guests can capture memories of your event. Create a backdrop using your most impressive ghost Halloween decorations, perhaps the floating ghost cluster or illuminated ghost display. Add props like ghost-shaped speech bubbles with spooky sayings, white boas, or ghost finger puppets.
For an extra-special effect, set up a “ghost portrait” station using a white sheet, a bright light, and a camera. Have guests pose behind the sheet while the light creates dramatic silhouettes. These unique ghost portraits make memorable keepsakes from your ghost decoration for Halloween celebration.
Final Thoughts on Halloween Ghost Crafts
From simple tissue paper ghosts to elaborate yard displays, ghost decorations offer endless possibilities for Halloween fun. Whether you’re aiming for cute or creepy, these versatile figures can match any party vibe. DIY ghost crafts are a great budget-friendly option, but if you want to make a big impression, check out our Halloween Morphsuits collection. These high-quality, breathable ghost costumes are a game-changer—no more slipping sheets or blocked vision—just spooky comfort all night long.
Looking for more Halloween inspiration? Explore our family-friendly costume ideas or dive into a fun DIY Beetlejuice costume. Hosting an adult party? Add a horror movie drinking game for some ghostly laughs. And for a quirky twist, find out what Spider-Man eats for breakfast—because even superheroes get hungry on Halloween!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the ghost of Halloween?
The ghost of Halloween is often considered a symbolic figure representing the spirits believed to roam the earth on October 31st. While there isn’t one specific ghost tied to Halloween, many stories and legends mention restless spirits and apparitions that people associate with the holiday’s eerie atmosphere. These ghosts are part of the folklore that blends ancient traditions with spooky storytelling.
Why Halloween is about ghost?
Halloween is about ghosts because it originated from ancient festivals like Samhain, where people believed the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred. This time was thought to allow spirits to return to the world of the living. Over time, these beliefs transformed into the modern Halloween tradition, where ghosts symbolize the connection between life, death, and the supernatural. Even today, ghost-themed Baby Halloween Costume options remain popular, reflecting these spooky roots in a fun and family-friendly way.
Who is the most famous ghost?
One of the most famous ghosts in popular culture is Casper the Friendly Ghost, known for his kind and gentle nature. Historically, famous ghost stories include figures like the Flying Dutchman or the ghost of Anne Boleyn. These spectral characters have captured imaginations around the world, becoming staples in ghost lore and entertainment.
Are ghosts of Halloween spicy?
Ghosts of Halloween are not literally spicy, but the term ‘spicy’ could playfully refer to how thrilling or exciting ghost stories and decorations can be during the holiday. The spooky tales and eerie costumes add a kind of ‘flavor’ to Halloween celebrations that make them fun and memorable. So, while ghosts themselves aren’t spicy, their stories definitely bring a kick of excitement!
Who called Halloween All Hallows Eve?
Halloween was called All Hallows Eve because it is the evening before All Hallows Day, or All Saints’ Day, which is celebrated on November 1st. The term ‘Hallow’ means ‘holy’ or ‘saint,’ so All Hallows Eve literally means the night before the holy day dedicated to saints. This name reflects the holiday’s roots in Christian tradition, blending with older pagan customs.
Who is the scariest Halloween person?
The scariest Halloween person is subjective and often depends on popular culture and personal fears, but classic figures like Michael Myers from the ‘Halloween’ film series are widely regarded as terrifying. Other scary characters include the Joker, Freddy Krueger, and iconic monsters like Dracula or the Headless Horseman. These figures embody the fear and thrill that make Halloween so captivating.
About the Author
Joe is the chief contributing writer for the MorphCostumes Blog.
MorphCostumes is the Costume Brand that gives you the costumes that make your best times in life even better.
We are the brand for people who want to make Halloween, Christmas, Easter, Birthdays or BBQ Parties even better with great costumes.
We know that many people have experienced having these events ruined by a rubbish costume they have bought online from a no-brand Chinese factory. The costume might turn up not looking like it was advertised, badly fitting, of poor quality so it tears easily. The material may be see-through, non-breathable or itchy. It also might be missing key accessories that complete the look.
MorphCostumes ensures that it makes your best times better by doing the following:
- Having thousands of innovative and unique costume designs.
- Ensuring fit by testing 30 or more separate measurements on each costume design.
- Guaranteeing quality by performing over 500,000 in-person quality checks each year.
- Always using 125 GSM or more material for a soft, breathable and quality feel.
- Always being clear on what is included in the costume so you are never disappointed.
Through sticking to these values since launching in 2009, we have won awards such as Disney Product of the Year, and the business has been recognised as an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year finalist (twice), featured on the FEBE 100 fastest growing companies list (twice), the Sunday Times Fast Track, and the Maserati Top Companies List.
We have also appeared across publications such as the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, BBC, Wired, BuzzFeed, The Times, The Telegraph, The Financial Times, and The Guardian.