Glow-in-the-Dark Ghost Jars: A Spooky & Easy Halloween DIY

Halloween is the perfect time to get creative with eerie yet adorable decorations. These Glow-in-the-Dark Ghost Jars are a fun, kid-friendly craft that adds a hauntingly cute touch to your home. Made with simple materials like mason jars and glow-in-the-dark clay, these little phantoms float mysteriously inside their jars, casting an eerie glow at night.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, share some spooktacular tips, and answer common questions to help you make the most enchanting ghost jars for Halloween!

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather these supplies:

• Glow-in-the-dark polymer clay (for the ghost’s body)
• Black polymer clay (for the eyes)
• Black & orange felt (for decorating the jar lid)
• Moss (to add a creepy texture)
• Mason jar (the ghost’s haunted home)
• Fiber fill or cotton balls (for a misty effect)
• Fishing line or clear cord (to make the ghost float)
• Pony beads (optional, for extra decoration)
• Glue (to secure moss and felt)
• Scissors
• Baking tools (if required by clay instructions)

Step-by-Step Method

1. Shape Your Ghost

• Roll the glow-in-the-dark clay into a sheet about ¼-inch thick.
• Pinch the edges to create ruffled, wavy details for a ghostly effect.
• Sculpt the bottom so it looks like a floating specter.
• Bake the clay according to the package instructions.

2. Add the Eyes

• Roll tiny balls from the black polymer clay to make the ghost’s eyes.
• Press them onto the ghost’s face.
• Use a toothpick or needle to poke a small hole at the top (this is where the fishing line will go).

3. Create a Haunted Base

• Trace the mason jar lid onto black or orange felt and cut it out.
• Glue moss and fiber fill (or cotton balls) onto the felt to create an eerie, misty look.
• Place this inside the jar lid.

4. Hang Your Ghost

• Thread fishing line or clear cord through the hole in the ghost’s head.
• Add a pony bead (optional) to secure the knot.
• Tie it tightly so the ghost hangs at your desired height.

5. Assemble the Jar

• Lower the ghost into the jar and thread the fishing line through the lid.
• Adjust the ghost’s height, then secure the line with tape on the underside of the lid.
• Cover the lid with the felt circle you prepared earlier.
• Screw the ring back on—your ghost jar is complete!

Boo-nus Tips for Extra Spookiness

• Charge it up! Shine a flashlight on the ghost before displaying it for a brighter glow.
• Mix & match – Create multiple ghosts in different sizes and poses for a phantom party effect.
• Storytime fun! Use a flashlight to create shadow puppet ghost tales with your jars.
• Try different colors – Use glow-in-the-dark paint on clear jars for an extra eerie effect.

FAQs About Glow-in-the-Dark Ghost Jars

1. How long do the ghosts glow?

Most glow-in-the-dark clay or paint will glow for several hours after being exposed to bright light. For best results, charge them under a UV light or flashlight before displaying.

2. Can kids help make these?

Yes! This is a kid-friendly craft, though younger children may need help with baking the clay and tying the fishing line.

3. What if I don’t have glow-in-the-dark clay?

You can use glow-in-the-dark paint on white clay or even white fabric ghosts with glow paint details.

4. How do I make the ghost hang straight?

Adjust the fishing line length and secure it tightly with tape inside the lid. If it tilts, reposition the knot.

5. Can I reuse the jars after Halloween?

Absolutely! Remove the ghost and repurpose the jar for storage, candles, or other seasonal crafts.

Final Thoughts

These Glow-in-the-Dark Ghost Jars are a simple, fun, and budget-friendly way to add some spooky charm to your Halloween decor. Whether you’re crafting with kids or just love a good DIY project, these little phantoms will light up the night with their eerie glow.