Want to know how to make the cutest DIY Halloween decor? Here are 19 easy-to-copy DIY Halloween Decor ideas that will leave your jaw on the floor (yes, they’re that good!).
As crazy as it is, spooky season is right around the corner! And one of the best ways to get into the Halloween spirit, is decorating your house.
Yes, you can obviously go to Amazon or Target to find some cute Halloween decor. But, what’s even better, is making your own!
Now, I know some of you might be a little nervous to pull out the crafting supplies. But I promise you, these DIY Halloween decor ideas are super easy to recreate (coming from a not-so-artsy person :)).
It’s also super rewarding knowing that you made your own Halloween decor. Well, at least some of your own.
You’re going to learn how to make the cutest DIY Halloween decor ideas from DIY Halloween decor ideas outside, Halloween room decor ideas DIY projects, DIY indoor Halloween decor ideas, and more.
You can even save a couple of these DIYs to do with friends or family. It’s always more fun when you’re doing it with other people!
And when you see how cute these DIY Halloween decor ideas are, you won’t be able to resist trying out a couple of them for yourself!
This post is all about the best DIY Halloween decor ideas so simple, it’s practically magic.
The Best DIY Halloween Decor Ideas:
1. DIY Paper Ghost Garland
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Supplies Needed:
- White printer paper or cardstock (will hold-up better)
- Pencil
- Scissors
- Hole punch (or tape)
- Black marker or pen
- String, yarn, or twine
Steps:
1. Fold Your Paper:
- Take a sheet of white paper and fold it accordion-style (back and forth, like a fan). Each fold should be about 3–4 inches wide.
2. Draw the Ghost Shape:
- On the top fold, sketch a simple ghost outline (kind of like a rounded head with a wavy bottom).
- Make sure the arms or sides of the ghost touch the paper’s edge so they’ll stay connected once cut.
3. Cut It Out:
- Carefully cut along your ghost outline while keeping the folded paper stacked.
- When you unfold it, you’ll have a chain of connected little ghosts.
4. Add Faces:
- Use a black marker to draw cute, spooky, or funny ghost faces on each one. You can mix it up—some smiling, some surprised, some scary.
5. Attach to String:
- If you want your garland to be sturdier, punch small holes at the tops of each ghost and thread string through.
- Or, simply tape the backs of your ghosts to twine for a faster option.
6. Hang & Style:
- Drape across a mantle, along a doorway, or around a window for a fun Halloween accent.
2. DIY Painted Pumpkins (Easy Step-by-Step)
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Supplies Needed:
- Real or faux pumpkins (any size)
- Acrylic paint (matte looks chic, metallic adds glam)
- Paintbrushes (foam brushes work well for smooth coats)
- Painter’s tape or stencils (optional)
- Sealant spray (for real pumpkins, to make paint last longer)
Steps:
1. Prep Your Pumpkin
- Wipe down your pumpkin to remove dirt or waxy residue so the paint sticks better.
- If it’s a real pumpkin, make sure it’s completely dry.
2. Base Coat
- Paint the whole pumpkin in a solid color (like matte white, sleek black, or cream) to create a clean canvas.
- Let dry for 30–60 minutes.
3. Add Your Design (Choose one or mix!)
- Minimalist Chic: Use painter’s tape to make stripes or color-block patterns.
- Polka Dots: Dip the end of a sponge or eraser into paint and dab on spots.
- Metallic Accents: Paint the pumpkin stem gold or silver for a luxe look.
- Celestial: Paint moons, stars, or constellations with a fine brush in white or metallic.
- Spooky Cute: Add little ghost faces, bats, or spiderwebs with black paint.
4. Seal (Optional but Recommended)
- If using real pumpkins, spray with a clear sealant to help prevent chipping and extend their life.
5. Display
- Group different sizes together on your porch, mantle, or table for an instant Halloween vibe.
3. DIY Halloween Doormats
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Supplies Needed:
- Plain coir doormat (Target, IKEA, or Amazon have cheap ones)
- Acrylic outdoor paint or spray paint (black, white, orange, metallics)
- Stencils (letters, bats, ghosts, pumpkins — you can print and cut your own)
- Painter’s tape
- Foam brush or stencil brush
- Clear outdoor sealant spray (to protect from weather)
Steps:
1. Prep the Mat
- Lay your coir doormat on a flat surface (outside or with newspaper underneath).
- Tape off any areas you want to keep clean.
2. Choose Your Design (some easy ideas):
- Spooky Words: “Boo!”, “Trick or Treat”, “Enter if You Dare”
- Cute Minimalist: A row of little ghosts or pumpkins along the bottom edge
- Creepy Chic: Black bats “flying” across the mat
- Witchy Fun: “Hey Witches” or “Come in for a Spell”
3. Stencil It On
- Place your stencil flat on the mat.
- Use a foam brush to dab paint into the fibers (don’t brush or it’ll bleed).
- Lift stencil carefully and repeat as needed.
4. Add Fun Details (Optional)
- Paint the pumpkin stems metallic gold or orange.
- Layer different sized bats or ghosts for dimension.
- Use glow-in-the-dark paint for spooky nighttime vibes.
5. Seal It
- Once dry, spray with a clear outdoor sealant to protect from rain and foot traffic.
6. Style & Layer
- For a cozy look, layer your doormat on top of a buffalo plaid or striped outdoor rug.
4. DIY Oversized Bucket List
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Large brown kraft paper roll (butcher paper or packing paper works too)
- Wooden dowel, curtain rod, or stick (to hold the paper roll at the top)
- Twine, rope, or ribbon (for hanging)
- Scissors
- Black marker, chalk marker, or paint pen (for writing)
- Washi tape or clips (optional, to secure paper at the bottom)
- Seasonal garlands (leaf garland, pom-poms, or fairy lights) for decoration
- Push pins, hooks, or nails (for hanging on the wall)
Steps:
1. Prep the Paper Roll
- Cut a length of brown kraft paper that’s tall enough to make a bold wall display.
- Leave extra at the bottom to roll up or secure.
2. Secure to the Dowel
- Thread the paper through or tape it onto the wooden dowel/rod at the top.
- This will give your bucket list structure and make it look polished.
3. Hang Your Roll
- Tie twine or rope to each end of the dowel.
- Hang it securely on your wall with hooks, nails, or push pins.
4. Create Your Bucket List
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Using a black marker or chalk pen, write a fun seasonal title at the top, like:
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“Fall Bucket List”
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“Halloween Fun List”
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“Winter To-Dos”
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Write a list of activities down the paper, leaving space to check them off.
5. Add Decorations
- Hang garlands around the roll — drape leaf garlands, pom-poms, fairy lights, or paper bats to frame it.
- Clip or tape small seasonal cutouts (pumpkins, ghosts, snowflakes, etc.) along the sides for extra charm.
6. Use It!
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As you complete items, check them off with a marker, or tape little photos/mementos next to them.
5. DIY Felt Bat Branches
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Black felt sheets
- Scissors
- Bat template (printed or hand-drawn)
- Pencil, chalk, or fabric marker (for tracing)
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks (or strong craft glue)
- Real tree branches (or faux craft branches)
- Vase, jar, or container (to display branches)
Steps:
1. Gather Your Branches
- Collect dry branches from outside, or buy faux ones from a craft store.
- Place them in a vase or jar to get an idea of how full you want your arrangement.
2. Make Your Bat Cutouts
- Print or draw a simple bat silhouette.
- Trace the bat shape onto black felt using chalk or a fabric marker.
- Cut out several bats (variety in size looks best — small, medium, and large).
3. Attach the Bats
- Apply a small dab of hot glue to the center of each bat’s body.
- Press the bat onto a branch, holding it in place until the glue sets.
- For a flying look, fold the bat’s wings slightly before gluing so they “pop out.”
4. Fill Out Your Branches
- Space bats out naturally across the branches.
- Mix in larger bats toward the bottom and smaller ones toward the top for balance.
5. Style Your Arrangement
- Place the branches back into your vase or jar.
- Optionally, add moss, fairy lights, or faux cobwebs around the base for extra spooky vibes.
6. DIY Air-Dry Clay Floral Ghosts
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- White air-dry clay (Crayola or DAS work well)
- Rolling pin (or a smooth glass bottle)
- Small bowl or cup (to help shape the ghost “drape”)
- Sculpting tools or toothpicks (for details)
- Black paint or fine-tip marker (for ghost faces)
- Dried flowers or faux mini florals
- Craft glue or Mod Podge (optional, for attaching flowers)
- Clear sealant spray (optional, to protect)
Steps:
1. Prep Your Clay
- Take a chunk of air-dry clay and knead it until soft and smooth.
2. Roll It Out
- Roll the clay into a flat circle (about ¼ inch thick).
- The size depends on how big you want your ghost — small ones are super cute for shelf decor!
3. Shape the Ghost
- Drape your clay circle over an upside-down cup or small bowl to create the ghost’s flowing sheet-like form.
- Let the edges fall naturally — wavy edges make it look spooky and cute.
4. Make Eyes (Optional Before Drying)
- Use the end of a straw or a toothpick to poke two little eyes.
- Or leave the surface smooth and paint eyes on later.
5. Add Florals
- While the clay is still soft, gently press dried flowers or petals into the body or around the base of the ghost.
- If the flowers don’t stick well, let the clay dry first, then glue them on with craft glue or Mod Podge.
6. Dry Completely
- Let your ghost dry 24–48 hours (check your clay’s instructions).
- Be sure to lift it off the bowl/cup gently once it hardens a bit to avoid cracks.
7. Paint Details
- Use black paint or a fine marker to give your ghost a simple face (two oval eyes and maybe a little “O” mouth).
- You can also leave them face-free for a more abstract, artsy vibe.
8. Seal (Optional)
- Spray with a clear sealant to protect the clay and flowers, especially if you’ll display them long-term.
7. DIY Halloween Treat Jars
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Large marshmallows (for ghosts)
- Black edible food marker or melted chocolate + toothpick (for ghost faces)
- Oreos (regular or double-stuffed)
- Orange candy melts (or white chocolate + orange food coloring)
- Green candy melts (or green M&M’s, sprinkles, or icing for stems)
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowls
- Glass canisters or jars (clear so the treats show through)
Steps for Marshmallow Ghosts:
1. Prep Marshmallows
- Lay large marshmallows on parchment paper.
2. Make the Faces
- Use a black edible marker to draw simple ghost faces (two oval eyes + an “O” mouth).
- If using melted chocolate, dip a toothpick in and dot on eyes + mouth.
3. Let Set
- Allow chocolate faces to harden for a few minutes before handling.
Steps for Pumpkin Oreo Cookies:
1. Melt Candy
- Melt orange candy melts (or white chocolate with orange food coloring) in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Stir until smooth.
2. Dip Oreos
- Using a fork, dip Oreos into the melted orange coating.
- Tap off excess and place on parchment paper.
3. Add Stems
- While still wet, place a green candy (M&M, sprinkle, or dab of green melted chocolate) at the top for a pumpkin stem.
4. Dry
- Let cookies harden completely at room temp or pop into the fridge for 10 minutes.
Assemble in Glass Canisters:
1. Layer the Treats
- Fill one glass canister with marshmallow ghosts.
- Fill another with pumpkin Oreos.
2. Style the Display
- Use multiple jars at different heights for a festive Halloween candy bar or kitchen counter decoration.
- Tie black or orange ribbon around the jars for extra flair.
8. DIY Haunted Mirror
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Mirror (any size, wall or tabletop)
- Stretchable cotton cobweb decorations (from dollar stores or Halloween aisles)
- Small plastic spiders
- Battery-operated fairy lights (warm white or orange for a spooky glow)
- Tape or push pins
- Optional: black spray paint or marker (for extra spider web detail)
Steps:
1. Prep Your Mirror
- Clean the mirror surface so cobwebs and lights stick better.
2. Add the Fairy Lights
- Wrap battery-operated fairy lights around the edges of the mirror.
- Use tape or small push pins to secure the wire if needed.
- Hide the battery pack behind the mirror or on a nearby shelf.
3. Stretch the Cobwebs
- Take the cotton spider web material and gently stretch it over the mirror and lights.
- Make it look uneven and wispy for a natural spooky effect.
4. Add Plastic Spiders
- Place plastic spiders strategically in the web and on the mirror frame.
- You can attach them with small dots of hot glue or just tuck them into the web.
5. Optional Extra Detail
- Use a black marker or thin black string to add extra web lines for dimension.
- Slightly drape some cobwebs over the fairy lights so the glow shines through the web.
6. Style & Display
- Turn on the fairy lights and place the mirror in a dimly lit corner, entryway, or mantle.
- Add additional Halloween decor nearby (pumpkins, candles, or spooky figurines) for a complete look.
9. DIY Cheesecloth Ghosts
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- White cheesecloth
- Small foam balls or balled-up tissue (for ghost heads)
- String, twine, or fishing line (for hanging)
- Scissors
- Rubber bands or twist ties
- Black marker or black felt/fabric scraps (for faces)
- Optional: wire hanger or pipe cleaners (for shaping arms)
Steps:
1. Create the Head
- Take a small foam ball or a balled-up piece of tissue and place it in the center of a square of cheesecloth.
- Gather the cheesecloth around the ball to form the ghost’s head.
- Secure with a rubber band or twist tie underneath the ball.
2. Shape the Body
- Let the rest of the cheesecloth hang freely to form the ghost’s body.
- For a flowing effect, trim the bottom in jagged or wavy lines.
3. Add Arms (Optional)
- Shape arms by folding and tucking the cheesecloth or using wire hangers/pipe cleaners under the fabric to pose them.
4. Draw Faces
- Use a black marker or cut small black felt pieces for eyes and a mouth.
- Attach them to the ghost’s head with glue if using felt, or draw directly for a simple option.
5. Add Hanging String
- Tie a piece of string or fishing line around the top of the head for hanging.
6. Display
- Hang your ghosts from ceilings, tree branches, curtain rods, or mantles.
- For a fun effect, cluster several at different heights for a floating ghost look.
10. DIY Spooky Door Wreath
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Grapevine or foam wreath base (any size)
- Artificial fall leaves, mini pumpkins, or berries
- Small plastic spiders, bats, or skulls (optional)
- Ribbon (black, orange, or patterned)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Scissors or wire cutters (for stems)
- Optional: black spray paint, moss, or cobweb material
Steps:
1. Prep the Wreath Base
- Lay your wreath base flat on a table.
- If desired, spray paint it black for a spooky background.
2. Add Greenery and Leaves
- Arrange artificial leaves, small branches, or moss around the wreath.
- Attach them with hot glue or by tucking stems into a grapevine base.
3. Add Halloween Elements
- Glue on mini pumpkins, berries, or other Halloween-themed items (spiders, bats, skulls).
- Layer items so the wreath looks full and balanced.
4. Attach Ribbon
- Tie a bow at the top or bottom of the wreath for decoration.
- Use extra ribbon to create a loop for hanging.
5. Optional Extras
- Stretch a bit of faux spider web over the wreath for a spooky touch.
- Add small fairy lights for a glowing effect.
6. Hang & Display
- Hang your wreath on your front door, above a mantle, or on an interior wall.
11. DIY Yarn Ghosts & Witches on a Stick
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Yarn (white for ghosts, black or purple for witches)
- Small foam balls or balled-up tissue (for heads)
- Popsicle sticks, skewers, or thin wooden dowels
- Black felt or fabric scraps (for witch hats or ghost eyes/mouths)
- Glue gun or craft glue
- Scissors
- Optional: mini ribbon, tiny broomstick sticks for witches, or small decorations
Steps for Yarn Ghosts:
1. Create the Ghost Head
- Take a foam ball or balled-up tissue and thread it onto the top of a stick.
- Tie yarn around the base of the ball to form the ghost’s “neck.”
2. Wrap the Body
- Drape and loosely wrap white yarn down from the head over the stick to create a flowing ghost body.
- Allow ends to hang freely or trim for the desired length.
3. Add a Face
- Use a black marker, felt, or small fabric pieces to create eyes and a mouth.
4. Optional Extras
- Tie a small ribbon around the ghost neck for a cute accent.
- Fluff the yarn a bit to make it look wispy and airy.
Steps for Yarn Witches:
1. Create the Witch Head
- Thread a black or purple yarn-wrapped ball onto the top of a stick.
2. Add the Body
- Wrap yarn downward from the head to form a flowing witch “dress.”
- You can layer different yarn colors for a striped or spooky effect.
3. Make a Hat
- Cut a small triangle from black felt or fabric.
- Roll it into a cone and glue it onto the witch’s head.
4. Add Details
- Tiny broomsticks can be glued into the hands (yarn can be twisted to make arms).
- Optional: add small googly eyes or paint a face with a marker.
Display Ideas:
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Stick them in potted plants, along a mantle, or in a vase for a “floating” effect.
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Make a little Halloween forest by clustering ghosts and witches together at different heights.
12. DIY Sherpa Pillow With Felt Ghosts
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Sherpa pillow cover (plain, neutral color works best)
- White or light-colored felt (for ghosts)
- Black felt or fabric marker (for ghost faces)
- Scissors
- Fabric glue or hot glue gun
- Optional: stuffing if making your own pillow insert
Steps:
1. Prep the Pillow
- If using a pillow cover, remove the insert and lay the cover flat on your workspace.
2. Cut Out Ghost Shapes
- Draw simple ghost shapes on the felt (rounded top, wavy bottom).
- Cut out as many ghosts as you like.
3. Add Faces
- Use black felt or a fabric marker to make eyes and a mouth for each ghost.
- Keep them cute or spooky depending on your vibe.
4. Attach the Ghosts
- Use fabric glue or a hot glue gun to attach the felt ghosts to the pillow cover.
- Space them evenly or cluster them for a playful look.
5. Let Dry
- Allow glue to dry completely before using the pillow.
6. Insert Pillow
- Put the pillow insert back into the cover.
- Fluff and style on your couch, bed, or favorite chair.
13. DIY Painted Cutting Board With Paddle
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Wooden cutting board (with paddle handle or any flat board)
- Acrylic paint (colors of your choice)
- Paintbrushes (small for details, medium for base)
- Painter’s tape (optional, for stripes or patterns)
- Sandpaper (fine grit)
- Food-safe sealant or mineral oil (if the board will be used for food)
- Pencil (for sketching designs)
Steps:
1. Prep the Board
- Sand the board lightly to remove rough spots and help the paint stick.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
2. Plan Your Design
- Lightly sketch your design with a pencil.
- Popular ideas: stripes, geometric patterns, holiday motifs, or a monogram.
3. Tape Off Sections (Optional)
- Use painter’s tape for clean lines if doing stripes, color blocks, or patterns.
4. Paint the Board
- Apply acrylic paint to the sections or designs.
- Let each color dry before adding details or layering.
5. Add Details
- Use a fine brush for lettering, small designs, or accents.
- Be patient and let layers dry in between to avoid smudging.
6. Seal the Board
- If the board is decorative, use a clear sealant for protection.
- If you want to use it for food prep, apply food-safe mineral oil to protect the wood (avoid sealing painted areas that touch food).
7. Display or Use
- Hang by the paddle handle, prop on a counter, or use as a serving board.
14. DIY Ghost, Pom-Pom, and Yarn Halloween Garland
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- White yarn (for ghosts)
- Black yarn (optional, for accents)
- Pom-poms (orange, black, white — store-bought or DIY)
- Small foam balls or balled-up tissue (for ghost heads)
- String, twine, or thin rope (for the garland base)
- Black felt or fabric marker (for ghost faces)
- Scissors
- Glue or hot glue gun
Steps:
1. Make the Yarn Ghosts
- Wrap white yarn around a small foam ball or balled-up tissue to form the ghost’s head.
- Let the yarn hang down loosely to create a flowing ghost body.
- Draw or glue on eyes and a mouth using a black marker or felt.
2. Prepare Pom-Poms
- Use pre-made pom-poms or make your own by wrapping yarn around your fingers or a fork, then tying and trimming.
- Choose Halloween colors (orange, black, white).
3. Attach to Garland Base
- Cut a length of string or twine for your garland.
- Tie or glue yarn ghosts and pom-poms onto the string, spacing them evenly.
- Mix ghosts and pom-poms for a balanced, whimsical look.
4. Add Yarn Accents (Optional)
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Tie short lengths of black or orange yarn between elements for added texture and movement.
5. Hang Your Garland
- Use tape, push pins, or hooks to hang the garland across a mantle, window, or doorway.
- Adjust spacing and height as desired for a floating effect.
15. DIY Pumpkin Carving
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Pumpkins (any size)
- Sharp knife or pumpkin carving kit (including small detail knives)
- Large spoon or ice cream scoop
- Marker or pencil (for sketching designs)
- Newspaper or disposable tablecloth (for easy cleanup)
- Bowl (for seeds and pulp)
- Optional: stencil templates, push pins, or tape
Steps:
1. Prep Your Workspace
- Cover your table with newspaper or a disposable tablecloth.
- Have a bowl ready for pumpkin seeds and pulp.
2. Cut the Top or Bottom
- Use a sharp knife to cut a circular lid around the stem (or cut the bottom for a sturdier display).
- Angle the cut slightly inward so the lid doesn’t fall in.
3. Scoop Out the Inside
- Remove seeds and pulp using a large spoon or ice cream scoop.
- Scrape the walls until they’re about ½ inch thick for easier carving.
4. Draw Your Design
- Use a marker or pencil to sketch your design on the pumpkin.
- Simple shapes (triangles, circles, smiley faces) are great for beginners.
- For intricate designs, tape on a stencil and trace with a marker or poke small holes along the lines.
5. Carve the Pumpkin
- Use a small serrated knife or pumpkin carving tool to carefully cut along your lines.
- Take your time, especially with curves and details.
6. Optional Finishing Touches
- Smooth rough edges with a small knife or spoon.
- Place a tea light, LED candle, or fairy lights inside for glowing effect.
7. Display
- Put your pumpkin on the porch, mantle, or window.
- Save seeds to roast for a tasty snack!
16. DIY Ghost Cloche Decor
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Glass cloche (any size) or glass dome
- White air-dry clay, polymer clay, or a small white figurine for the ghost
- Black marker or fine paintbrush with black paint (for eyes and mouth)
- Small fake pumpkins, moss, or other miniature Halloween accents (optional)
- Hot glue or craft glue
- Scissors (if adding small props or moss)
Steps:
1. Prepare Your Ghost
- Shape your ghost from white clay (a simple teardrop or sheet-like shape works).
- Smooth the surface for a polished look.
- Let it dry completely if using air-dry clay (follow manufacturer instructions).
2. Add a Face
- Use a black marker or paint to make simple eyes and a mouth.
- Keep it cute, spooky, or whimsical depending on your aesthetic.
3. Prepare the Base
- Use the cloche’s base (or a small wooden or ceramic base) to arrange your display.
- Optional: glue a small amount of moss, fake grass, or mini pumpkins to the base for a Halloween scene.
4. Position the Ghost
- Place the dried ghost in the center of the base.
- Glue it in place if you want a permanent display.
5. Add Additional Accents (Optional)
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Arrange tiny props like plastic spiders, mini pumpkins, or small Halloween figurines around the ghost.
6. Cover with the Cloche
- Carefully place the glass cloche over the display.
- Adjust props as needed for a balanced look.
7. Display Your Decor
- Put the cloche on a shelf, mantle, or table centerpiece.
- Optional: add a small LED tea light underneath for a glowing effect.
17. DIY Halloween Paper Garland
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Colored cardstock or construction paper (white for ghosts, black for cats and bats, orange for pumpkins, gray or white for skulls)
- Scissors
- Pencil
- String, twine, or thin yarn (for the garland base)
- Glue, tape, or a hole punch
- Optional: markers for adding faces or details
Steps:
1. Draw Your Shapes
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Use a pencil to sketch simple Halloween shapes:
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Ghosts: rounded top with wavy bottom
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Cats: sitting silhouette with tail curled
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Pumpkins: rounded with small stem
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Skulls: simple oval with eye and nose holes
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Bats: winged silhouette
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2. Cut Out the Shapes
- Carefully cut along your pencil lines.
- Make multiples of each shape so your garland has variety.
3. Add Details
- Draw faces on ghosts, pumpkins, or skulls with markers.
- Add eyes or other small details to cats and bats if desired.
4. Attach to Garland Base
Option A: Tape/Glue Method
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Lay out your string and glue or tape the top of each shape evenly spaced along the string.
Option B: Hole-Punch Method
- Punch a small hole at the top of each shape.
- Thread the string or twine through the holes and tie knots to keep shapes in place.
5. Space & Arrange
- Mix shapes in an alternating pattern for a balanced look.
- Adjust spacing as needed so the garland hangs nicely.
6. Hang Your Garland
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Use tape, push pins, or hooks to hang across a mantel, window, doorway, or wall.
18. DIY Paper Bat Decor
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Black cardstock or construction paper
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Optional: white chalk or pencil for sketching
- Tape or removable adhesive (for walls/windows)
- Optional: string or twine (for hanging garlands)
Steps:
1. Draw the Bat Shapes
- Sketch simple bat silhouettes on black cardstock: rounded body with outstretched wings.
- Optional: use a template or print a silhouette from the internet and trace it.
2. Cut Out the Bats
- Carefully cut along your pencil lines.
- Make multiple sizes for variety — small, medium, and large bats look best.
3. Add Details (Optional)
- Draw eyes or tiny wing lines with a white pen or chalk for extra detail.
- You can also fold the wings slightly to make the bats look like they’re flying.
4. Display Your Bats
Option A: Wall/Window Display
- Use tape or removable adhesive to stick bats to walls, doors, or windows.
- Arrange them in a flying pattern, e.g., from bottom corner up toward the ceiling.
Option B: Hanging Garland
- Punch a small hole at the top of each bat.
- Thread string or twine through the holes to create a bat garland.
- Hang across a mantle, doorway, or window.
19. DIY Spackled Ghost Canvas
Copy this DIY halloween decor idea:
Materials Needed:
- Canvas (any size)
- White spackling paste or joint compound
- Palette knife or old credit card (for spreading)
- Acrylic paint (black or dark gray for background, optional for details)
- Pencil (for sketching ghost shape)
- Paintbrush (optional, for background or details)
- Sandpaper (optional, for smoothing edges)
Steps:
1. Prep the Canvas
- If desired, paint the canvas background with a dark color (black, gray, or deep purple).
- Let it dry completely.
2. Sketch the Ghost
- Lightly draw a ghost shape on the canvas with a pencil.
- Keep it simple: rounded head, wavy bottom.
3. Apply Spackling Paste
- Use a palette knife or old credit card to spread spackling paste over the ghost shape.
- Create texture by pressing, swirling, or layering the paste.
- Build up the paste for a slightly raised, 3D effect.
4. Let it Dry
- Allow the spackling to dry completely (follow manufacturer instructions).
- Optional: lightly sand edges for a smoother or more defined look.
5. Add Details
- Once dry, use a black paintbrush or marker to draw eyes and a mouth on the ghost.
- Optional: add subtle shading or highlights around the ghost for depth.
6. Display
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Hang on a wall, place on a shelf, or incorporate into a Halloween gallery wall.
This post is all about the best DIY Halloween decor ideas so simple, it’s practically magic.
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