Halloween crafts don’t have to be complicated or expensive sometimes the simplest ones are the most fun. The Paper Plate Ghost is a perfect example: two paper plates, a bit of crepe paper, a black marker and kids get to help make a ghost that’s cute and spook-ready.
This project is quick, beginner-friendly, and a great activity for classrooms, playdates, or festive family time.
Why You’ll Love This Craft
- Super simple & cheap uses basic materials you probably already have
- Quick to make few minutes from start to finish
- Double sided option makes it more durable and fun
- Great for hanging or displaying makes fun decorations
- Hands-on for kids gives them a sense of creation and pride
Materials You’ll Need
- 2 paper plates (for double-sided look, optional but recommended)
- White crepe paper streamer
- Black marker
- Glue
- Hole punch (for hanging)
- Yarn or string (to hang the ghost)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Draw the face
Use the black marker to draw ghost eyes, mouth, or spooky expressions on the bottom (front) of one or both paper plates.
Add ghost “streamers”
Cut 4 strips of white crepe paper.
Glue these strips to the front side of one plate so they hang down (this will be the “body” of the ghost).
Combine plates
Place the second plate behind the first (face side inward if double-sided).
Staple or glue the plates together along the rims, aligning their edges.
Punch and hang
Use a hole punch at the top of the ghost (between the plates).
Thread yarn or string through and tie. Hang your ghost from ceilings, doorways, or walls.
Tips for Success
- Use lightweight paper plates so the ghost isn’t too heavy when hung.
- Cut the crepe paper strips long enough to flutter nicely but not so long they tangle.
- If placing indoors, glue works fine. For outdoor display, use stronger glue or tape.
- Let glue dry fully before hanging so nothing shifts.
- Customize the face — smile, ghostly “Oooh,” or silly expressions — make it fun.
Variations & Creative Ideas
- Colored ghosts: Use pale blue or purple crepe paper for a ghostly hue.
- Glow accents: Add glow-in-the-dark paint or stick small glow stickers.
- Layered ghosts: Use more plates front to back for thickness or dimension.
- Mini ghosts: Use smaller plates or paper circles for cute, dangling ghosts.
- Add eyes: Use googly eyes instead of drawing for more texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need two plates or can I use just one?
You can make it with one plate — the ghost will be lighter but not double-sided. Using two gives more sturdiness and a cleaner look.
Q: Can this craft go outside?
It’s possible, but use weather-resistant glue or tape, and protect from wind. Indoors is safer.
Q: What age is this good for?
Perfect for preschoolers to elementary school kids. Adults can help with staples or glue.
Q: How do I hang multiple ghosts?
String several ghosts at different lengths from a mobile frame or across a doorway for a spooky effect.
The Paper Plate Ghost is a delightful, no-fuss Halloween craft that kids will love making and displaying. With just a handful of materials, you get a fun, floating specter that brightens your space and gives children that joy of seeing their creation come to life.
Try it for your next Halloween party or classroom craft hour I bet it will become a staple each year.