DIY projects serve as creative outlets that can transform your home while allowing you to put your personal touch on your decor. As the spooky season arrives and Halloween decorations come out, consider an easy DIY project that subtly embraces the holiday spirit. These DIY ghost candles offer the perfect Halloween decor for those who want to celebrate without overwhelming their space with flashy decorations. They’re simple, charming, and an ideal craft for the season.

Related: Here Are the Hottest Halloween Decor Trends for 2024, According to Pinterest

What You’ll Need:

For this quick and easy project, gather a few items from your local retailer:

• Candlesticks
• Sharpie or paint

How to Make DIY Ghost Candles

This project takes about 20 minutes to complete. Let’s get started.

1. Set Aside Warm Water

Begin by filling a large bowl or sink with hot water. Allow the water to cool until it reaches a warm temperature. If using the sink, consider leaving the water running for a consistent temperature.

2. Soak Your Candle Sticks

Once the water is warm, place your candles in the bowl or sink. Soak them for up to 10 minutes.

3. Bend Your Candles

After soaking, gently bend the candles in the desired direction. Aim to create fluid shapes that resemble ghostly figures. Use minimal pressure to avoid snapping the candles; they should feel soft, like putty. Give each candle a unique bend for variety. If the candles are long enough, consider looping them into swirls. Decide whether you want a cohesive look or individual styles for each candle.

4. Set Your Candles Out to Dry

Lay the candles out to dry in their new shapes. This should take less than five minutes.

5. Draw Your Ghost Faces

Now, it’s time to add personality to your ghostly creations. Use a black Sharpie (or your desired color) to draw eyes and mouths on the candles. If the Sharpie doesn’t show up well, use black paint instead. Get creative—draw a happy ghost, a sad one, or even a ghost with hands. Make this step as unique as you like.

Finally, place your ghost candles in holders and enjoy the compliments on your adorable DIY project. These charming decorations blend effortlessly with your current decor and help set the tone for the Halloween season.

Related: 4 Subtle Ways to Decorate for Halloween Without Overdoing It