DIY Ghost Costumes – How to Make a Ghost Costume for Halloween

Stuck in a dead end with Halloween costume ideas? We get it. Between DIY decorating, preparing for parties and preparing for spooky activities, sometimes the holiday creeps in. Before you know it it’s October 30th and the closest thing to a costume is a sheet mask.

But don’t give up the ghost – try to be one! It’s one of the easiest ways to bring some spooky energy to the whole family. Customize your look with makeup, different materials and props to achieve more Scooby Doo cartoon and create something truly original. We have options for you and your sweetheart, as well as ideas for toddlers, dogs and babies.

DIY ghost costume for toddlers

There’s nothing more adorable than turning your swaying tot into a hobbling leprechaun. While nothing says spookier than the terrifying twos, this simple costume should terrify the entire crew. As a bonus, it’s a super convenient option, giving you one less reason to throw a tantrum off your list.

1. We recommend using fleece as the white base as it will keep your child warm, won’t snag and you can cut it to any size. Fold the fabric over, then in half, and measure to find the center of the fold line. Mark this spot with a pin, measure about four inches on each side of the pin and mark. Cut out a small semicircle and see if your child can put their head through the hole.
2. Now that you have the perfect poncho, trim the edges on all sides into triangular strips with sharp edges about 1″ wide and 5″ tall for your spooky tails.
3. Next, using a ghost face template, cut out the eyes and mouth from black glue felt and glue the pieces to the center of the poncho.

Tip: You can swap out the white fleece for an oversized t-shirt or white hoodie for warmer climates and an even easier DIY ghost costume.

DIY ghost costume for women

Who said ghosts can’t look a little glam? A departure from the basic two holes and a piece of white leaf, this Victorian-inspired look offers an excuse to go to a boo-tique. The best part is that you can easily reuse the items from this outfit and use them to craft other costumes like a zombie bride, Marilyn Monroe or even a pirate.

1. Start with a white flowy dress—ideally something that hits your ankles or feet for the floating effect.
2. Apply a dark black or deep blue eyeshadow to create hollow, lifeless eyes.
3. Add accessories like a prop candelabra and a white veil so everyone you pass right now can find their way to the other side.

Tip: You can bring this undead look to life by finishing off your makeup with dark purple lipstick and some highlighter for a ghostly glow.

DIY ghost costume for dog

What better way to get your dog in the spirit of Halloween than turning them into one? Even the most patient pups can sit still for this easy DIY ghost costume. The creepy fit will have trick-or-treaters paws before you cross your threshold.

1. Take a plain white bed sheet, an old tablecloth, or even an oversized t-shirt, depending on how big your dog is, and drape it over Fido. Mark how much fabric you need to cover it. Once you have cut the fabric, measure again to mark where the eyes, nose and mouth are and remove the fabric.
2. Cut holes where you made markers and he’s ready to haunt the neighborhood.
3. Bonus: You can consider adding a tutu for a little extra flair.

DIY ghost costume for babies

Most fussy babies are already represented in this character, but luckily you don’t need a wailing toddler to complete your ghost costume. Turning your child into a tiny Casper is an adorable costume for all ages, but kids under one are a little more fun.

1. Start with a white base like a one-piece suit, hoodie, or t-shirt and shorts.
2. Using black glue felt, cut out two circles for ghost eyes and place them on a white hat or cap.
3. Add fun stickers like spiders or cobwebs to the base of the costume.