20 Creative Ghost Halloween Decorations for a Spooky Home

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1. Weatherproof Outdoor Hanging Ghosts

Weatherproof hanging ghosts are among the most practical and long-lasting outdoor decorations. The head is made by stuffing plastic grocery bags into a single bag, shaping it into a smooth sphere, and wrapping it tightly with duct tape to ensure that moisture does not penetrate. This step is important for durability, as outdoor decorations are exposed to unpredictable weather. A small length of wire cut from a coat hanger is bent into a loop and securely taped to the top of the head to serve as a hanging point. The body is created by layering a solid white fabric beneath a longer, semi-transparent fabric, often sheer polyester or gauze, to create movement. When suspended from tree branches, pergola beams, or porch ceilings, the ghost sways slightly in the wind, producing a lifelike and atmospheric effect. When several are displayed at varying heights, they create visual rhythm and depth, making the outdoor space feel cohesive and intentionally styled.

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2. Cheesecloth Tabletop Ghosts

Cheesecloth ghosts are an ideal option for indoor decorating because of their lightweight and gauzy appearance. The process begins by draping cheesecloth over a balloon or temporary structure such as a jar or cone to create the silhouette. The cheesecloth is then saturated with a diluted mixture of fabric stiffener or white glue and water. Once dried fully, the fabric retains a sculpted shape, allowing the ghost to stand independently without internal support. These figures work particularly well on mantels, sideboards, bookshelves, and dining tables. Their translucent texture catches and softens ambient light, which creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Adding a small battery-operated candle beneath or behind the figure enhances its form without introducing harsh illumination.

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3. Ghost Front Door Wreath

A wreath is often the first seasonal element visible to guests, making it an effective place to introduce the ghost theme. A ghost wreath typically combines a neutral wreath base—grapevine, metal hoop, rattan, or preserved branches—with small ghost shapes made from fabric, felt, clay, or lightweight crafting materials. The key to a refined look is maintaining a controlled color palette. White, ivory, cream, and natural wood tones work particularly well. Avoiding bright orange accents results in a calmer, more cohesive entry. Placing this wreath alongside lanterns, planters, or a textured doormat creates an overall composed and welcoming exterior vignette.

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4. Wrap-Around Porch Ghost Figures

For homes with porch columns, support posts, railings, or large trees, wrap-around ghost decorations offer a high-impact solution with minimal work. These figures are constructed with internal bendable frames that allow them to wrap around a vertical surface, giving the impression that the ghost is clinging to or leaning around the pillar. This creates a dynamic and engaging presentation, as if the ghost is interacting with the structure. Because these figures are lightweight and easy to install, they are particularly useful for busy households or last-minute decorating. Their poseable arms allow for expressive positioning, making them adaptable to different architectural features and styling preferences.

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5. Terracotta Ghost or Pumpkin Lanterns

Terracotta introduces a natural material quality that complements autumn décor beautifully. Terracotta lanterns with ghost or pumpkin silhouettes carved into their surfaces allow light to pass through the clay, creating a warm and gentle glow. This style of lantern works especially well on porch steps, hearths, coffee tables, or dining centerpieces. The textured, matte surface of terracotta prevents the décor from appearing overly seasonal or commercial, allowing it to blend seamlessly with existing neutral décor. Because terracotta is associated with fall and harvest aesthetics, these lanterns can remain part of the space even after Halloween.

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6. Mantel Garland with Ghost Accents

A mantel serves as an effective focal point during seasonal decorating. A ghost-themed garland can be made from felt, cardstock, or lightweight wood cutouts and draped across the length of the mantel. To enhance depth, the garland may be layered with soft lighting, neutral pumpkins, textured vases, or dried florals. By containing the ghost motif within a defined visual boundary rather than dispersing it across the room, the décor appears organized and cohesive. This approach allows the seasonal theme to feel integrated rather than cluttered.

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7. Ghost Figurines in Layered Mantel Displays

Mantel displays depend on variation in height, texture, and silhouette to achieve balance. Small ceramic, wood, or resin ghost figurines serve as effective components in these arrangements, especially when paired with matte black candlesticks, taper candles, and dried autumn stems. The neutral ghost forms contrast subtly with the dark elements, producing a structured yet soft composition. This arrangement is particularly effective in homes with traditional fireplaces or detailed architectural mantels.

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8. Ghost Pillow Covers

One of the most efficient ways to introduce seasonal décor into living spaces is through pillow covers. Ghost-themed covers allow for visual impact without permanent or large-scale change. Linen and cotton fabrics in subdued tones ensure that the décor blends with existing furnishings. This textile approach is appropriate for living rooms, bedrooms, window seats, and covered outdoor seating, allowing the ghost theme to appear subtle rather than overt.

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9. Ghost Circle Lawn Display

A circle of standing ghost figures in the yard creates a dramatic outdoor installation. These ghosts are typically made by placing foam spheres or lightweight plastic balls on garden stakes and draping them with fabric. When arranged in a circle, semicircle, or staggered clusters, the grouping establishes visual narrative and atmosphere. Subtle lighting placed at ground level enhances the display without overwhelming the design, especially during dusk and evening hours.

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10. Mason Jar Ghost Lanterns

Glass jars can be transformed into ghost lanterns using gauze or cheesecloth wrapped around their exteriors and minimal facial detail added to suggest expression. These lanterns suit a variety of settings, including porch steps, fireplace hearths, console tables, and dining centerpieces. They are safe to use with battery-powered candles and provide soft illumination suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.

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11. Black Foliage Garland with Warm Lighting

Black foliage garlands introduce contrast and depth, creating a moody backdrop that enhances ghost shapes. When paired with warm-toned LED string lighting, the effect becomes atmospheric rather than stark. Draping the garland along stair railings, mantels, mirrors, or doorways creates structural lines that guide the viewer’s attention through the space.

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12. Ghost-Themed Dining Table Accent

A dining table can incorporate ghost décor without overwhelming the room. A neutral runner, paired with black candleholders and small ghost figurines placed along the center, creates a quiet seasonal focal point. Burgundy or deep green foliage adds richness and seasonal tone while maintaining visual harmony.

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13. Ghost Doorknob or Handle Hanger

A ghost-shaped hanger made from cardstock or thin wood can be placed on interior door handles to introduce the theme subtly. This is particularly effective in hallways, entry foyers, and mudrooms, where visitors transition between spaces.

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14. Ghost Candy Jar

A jar filled with white edible treats becomes part of the décor when a ghost face is added to the exterior. This approach works well for kitchen counters, beverage stations, and casual entertaining displays.

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15. Spiral Paper Hanging Ghosts

Cutting white cardstock into spirals produces lightweight hanging ghosts that turn gently with air movement. These are especially effective in children’s rooms, above dining tables, or near interior windows where natural air flow allows movement.

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16. Porch Bench with Neutral Ghost Textiles

A porch bench styled with a neutral throw blanket and ghost-themed cushion provides subtle seasonal presence. This arrangement suits homes that prefer understated seasonal décor while still acknowledging the holiday.

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17. Ghost Cupcakes or Marshmallow Toppers

Dessert can enhance the theme through presentation. Cupcakes topped with white frosting or layered marshmallow shapes offer a visual connection to ghost shapes and can be displayed on stands during gatherings.

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18. Painted Gourd Ghosts

Small gourds painted white with simple black detailing offer a natural interpretation of the ghost motif. These can be placed in bowls or clustered in interior displays to add seasonal presence without strong visual contrast.

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19. Lighted Witch Broom with Ghost Accents

A decorative broom with integrated LED lighting serves as a compelling vertical accent near doorways or fireplaces. Adding a ghost figure or subtle white textile detail maintains thematic connection without introducing clutter.

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20. Entry Console Ghost Arrangement

The entry console sets the tone for the home. A small grouping of ghost figures, warm candles, and dried botanical elements creates a composed seasonal display that is refined, inviting, and cohesive.

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Conclusion

Ghost Halloween decorations offer a versatile way to style your home for the season, whether you prefer a subtle, neutral look or a playful, whimsical atmosphere. Their soft textures, simple forms, and natural movement allow them to blend seamlessly into both indoor and outdoor spaces. By choosing the right placement, materials, and lighting, ghost décor can appear polished rather than overly themed. Whether you craft your own ghosts from fabric and cheesecloth or incorporate ready-made accents such as garlands, pillows, or lanterns, even small touches can transform the mood of your home. With thoughtful layering and consistency in color and tone, your space can feel festive, welcoming, and visually cohesive throughout the Halloween season.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are ghost decorations difficult to make at home?

No. Many ghost decorations can be made using simple household materials such as fabric, string lights, cheesecloth, balloons, and jars. Most projects require only basic shaping and light assembly, making them suitable even for beginners.

2. Can outdoor ghost decorations last through rain and wind?

Yes, but durability depends on how they are constructed. Weatherproof outdoor ghosts made with duct-taped plastic bag heads and layered fabrics tend to hold up well. Make sure seams are sealed and fabrics are secured to prevent movement in strong wind.

3. How do I prevent outdoor ghosts from blowing away?

Use strong fishing line or clear nylon cord and secure the attachment point firmly to branches, hooks, or porch beams. Adding a slight weight to the bottom of the fabric can also help control movement in windy conditions.

4. What is the best lighting to pair with ghost decorations?

Warm, soft lighting complements ghost décor best. Battery lanterns, LED tealights, string lights, and low-wattage bulbs create atmosphere without harsh shadows or bright glare. Avoid flashy colored lights if your goal is a refined or neutral look.

5. How can I keep my Halloween décor looking cohesive?

Choose a consistent palette—usually white, cream, soft gray, and matte black—and repeat these tones throughout the home. Limit the number of competing themes and keep décor grouped by area rather than scattered randomly.

6. Can ghost decorations work with non-Halloween fall décor?

Yes. Ghosts pair naturally with pumpkins, dried foliage, terracotta, and wood textures. Their neutral color makes them easy to blend into autumn displays without overpowering them.

7. When should I put up ghost decorations?

Many people begin decorating in late September or early October. If your décor leans seasonal rather than spooky, it can stay up throughout the fall.