Glow-in-the-Dark Paper Ghosts DIY: Spooky & Fun Halloween Hanging Decorations

Get ready to light up your Halloween with these glow-in-the-dark paper ghosts! This DIY project is perfect for kids, parents, and crafty souls looking to add a little eerie charm to their seasonal decor. Not only are these ghosts super fun to make, but they’re also an inexpensive way to transform any room into a haunted haven. Whether you're preparing for a Halloween party or simply want to bring some spooky vibes to your home, these floating phantoms are sure to please.

The best part? You don’t need any fancy materials. With some tissue paper, glow paint, and a few household items, you’ll have your own set of glowing ghosts hovering in no time. Plus, this craft offers plenty of opportunities for kids to express their creativity by customizing each ghost with unique facial expressions and glow effects. Let’s get started!

Materials Needed

To create your glow-in-the-dark paper ghosts, gather the following supplies:

• White tissue paper or coffee filters (2–3 sheets per ghost)
• Cotton balls or small foam balls (1 per ghost)
• Glow-in-the-dark paint or glow sticks
• Black marker or googly eyes
• String or thread
• Tape or twist ties
• Scissors
• Optional: small LED tealights (for internal lighting)

Tip: If you don’t have glow paint, glow sticks inserted carefully under the tissue can create a similar spooky effect.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Create the Ghost Head

Place a cotton ball or foam ball in the center of a single tissue sheet. This will form the ghost's head. Wrap the tissue gently around the ball to form the shape.

Step 2: Drape the Tissue to Form the Ghost Body

Layer one or two more tissue sheets over the first to create the body of the ghost. Let the tissue fall loosely for a floating, airy look.

Step 3: Secure the Ghost’s Shape

Use a twist tie or small rubber band around the neck (just under the head) to secure the tissue in place. Don’t tighten too much—just enough to hold the shape.

Step 4: Draw or Attach the Ghost Face

Use a black marker to draw expressive eyes and mouths on your ghost. Try spooky, silly, or sad faces—or glue on googly eyes for a playful twist.

Step 5: Add Glow-in-the-Dark Elements

Paint the ghost’s body lightly with glow-in-the-dark paint. Let it dry completely. If using glow sticks, carefully insert one inside the tissue layers or wrap a mini one around the neck area under the tissue.

Step 6: Attach Hanging String

Cut a piece of thread about 12 inches long. Tape or tie one end to the top of the ghost's head. Make sure it's centered so the ghost hangs upright.

Step 7: Let It Charge and Hang!

Place your finished ghosts under a lamp or in sunlight for a few minutes to charge the glow paint. Once charged, hang them from the ceiling, windows, or doorways and watch them light up the night.

Customization Ideas

Emoji Faces Ghosts

Turn your ghosts into expressive emoji characters! Use a black marker to draw classic emoji faces—smiling, crying, angry, or surprised. Great for teaching emotions too.

Mini Floating Ghosts Garland

Make smaller versions using just one tissue sheet and cotton balls. Create 5–7 ghosts and string them together on a single thread to make a whimsical ghost garland.

Haunted Ghost Family

Vary the sizes by using larger tissue sheets or smaller ones to create a full "ghost family." Add accessories like mini hats, bows, or even paper arms to give them unique personalities.

Educational or Seasonal Uses

This DIY is not just fun—it’s educational too. Kids can learn about phosphorescence and how glow-in-the-dark materials absorb and emit light. Use it as a science tie-in or seasonal craft project in the classroom.

These ghosts also make perfect decorations for Halloween parties, trick-or-treat stations, or as a classroom hanging mobile. They’re lightweight, safe, and full of spooky spirit!

Printable Template

To make this craft even easier, we’ve included a printable ghost face template. Simply print, cut, and glue or trace onto your ghost’s head. There are several face options to color and choose from—happy, scared, sad, and more.

Kids can color their own ghost faces before assembly, making this project even more engaging and personal. Just print, decorate, and your ghost is ready to glow!

Conclusion

These glow-in-the-dark paper ghosts are a fantastic blend of fun, frights, and creativity. Whether you're crafting with kids or creating your own haunted house, this DIY is a simple yet magical way to celebrate the Halloween season. So grab your tissue paper and glow paint—it’s time to make some spooky magic happen!