A ghost starts with an old bedsheet, and a few small details are what turn it into something cute, funny, glamorous or plain silly. I've put together thirty versions below, each with the layers underneath, the accessories, the shoes and the theme that makes it read. The one rule I'd follow for all of them: before you cut anything, drape the sheet over the cap or headband you'll actually wear, mark where your eyes sit with chalk or a pin, then take it off to cut. Add black mesh behind the holes so nobody sees your face, and trim the hem high enough that you're not stepping on it. From sparkly and Western to pastel and group themes, there's a ghost here for most moods.
What Size Sheet Fits Your Height
Most failed ghosts I see come down to the wrong sheet. Too small and it rides up above the knees; too big and you're tripping by the second house. A flat sheet is the one to use. Fitted sheets have elastic corners that bunch around your shoulders and never hang right.
- Kids: a twin flat sheet, or a cot-size one for small children, folded or trimmed so the hem sits at mid-shin.
- Most adults: a twin flat sheet usually covers you from crown to mid-calf with room to spare at the sides.
- Taller adults or a roomy, flowing ghost: a full or queen flat sheet, cut down from one edge.
- Fabric: cotton or a cotton-rich blend breathes best. All-polyester sheets are cheaper but get hot and cling with static.
To cut the hem, put the sheet on over the cap you'll wear, stand in the shoes you'll wear, and have someone pin a line about a hand's width above the floor all the way round. Then round the corners off so the sheet doesn't sag into points. A cut cotton edge will fray, so either zigzag it on a machine, turn it under with iron-on hem tape, or sew a quick running stitch by hand. Leaving it raw is fine for one night; it just won't survive the wash.
1. Classic White Sheet Ghost Costume
The plain white ghost is still the one people smile at most. Use a clean cotton sheet that falls below the knee without brushing the ground; cotton breathes far better than polyester, which gets hot and damp inside within the hour. Cut two evenly spaced eyeholes and stitch breathable black mesh behind them. A light cap or padded headband underneath stops the fabric sliding around your head. Wear a white long-sleeve tee and leggings underneath so nothing shows when you move, and white sneakers for walking. Paint an oval mouth with black fabric paint, or sew on a black felt one, which looks softer. Makeup isn't needed, so put the effort into a small white treat bag with a friendly ghost face.
2. Sheet Ghost Costume With Sunglasses
Sunglasses make a ghost look ridiculously confident in photos. Sew a roomy white sheet with mesh-covered eyeholes, then set oversized black sunglasses straight over the fabric. I hold the frames on with a couple of stitches around the arms, from inside, or a loop of clear elastic; safety pins work but tend to pop open. Underneath, a black fitted top, black leggings and chunky ankle boots give a sharp contrast at the hem. A black mini shoulder bag worn outside the sheet, white gloves and a silver chain over the fabric make it look styled. Anchor everything over a baseball cap, whose brim also helps the sunglasses sit forward, and round off a knee-length hem so the whole ghost looks planned.
3. Pink Sheet Ghost Costume
Pink makes the ghost sweet rather than spooky. Buy a pale pink flat sheet, or dye an old white cotton one; cotton takes dye evenly, while polyester blends come out streaky. Cut large oval eyes from black felt and hide smaller viewing holes inside them. Wear a pink tee with shorts or leggings underneath, and let pink ankle socks and white platform sneakers show below the trimmed hem. A satin bow near the top of the head, sewn onto a fabric-covered headband under the sheet, stays put far better than one pinned to the fabric alone. Scatter a few felt hearts or fabric stars and carry a heart-shaped bag for a family-friendly ghost.
4. Black Sheet Ghost Costume
A black sheet makes a sleek, slightly mysterious ghost. Use a light but opaque fabric, and hold it up to a lamp before you buy; thin black sheets can be see-through in bright light. Oversized white felt eyes keep it reading as a ghost, with small mesh openings hidden in the pupils. A black cap underneath stops the sheet twisting while you walk. Wear a fitted black top, black pants and black sneakers so anything that shows blends into the drape. White gloves and a small white crossbody bag add contrast. On a dark street a black ghost nearly disappears, so I'd edge the hem with reflective silver ribbon. Keep the hem near the ankle and cut side slits for your hands.
5. Cowboy Sheet Ghost Costume
A cowboy ghost is a crowd-pleaser and quick to make. Drape a white sheet over a snug cap, add mesh-backed eyeholes and cut the hem to mid-calf so you can walk freely. A cowboy hat is heavy for a sheet to hold on its own, so pick a light one and fix it to the hidden cap with elastic or a few hand stitches through both layers. Tie a red bandanna around the neck area and buckle a brown faux-leather belt over the fabric. Jeans and a plaid shirt underneath add warmth, and low-heeled brown Western boots finish it. Carry a coil of soft craft cord instead of anything that looks like a weapon, and stitch a little felt mustache under the mouth for the laugh.
6. Disco Sheet Ghost Costume
The disco ghost needs to move. Start with a white or silver-grey sheet cut to the knee and scatter mirrored paper squares or silver fabric circles over it, keeping them light; too many and the sheet hangs stiff and stops swinging. Fabric circles are kinder than mirror paper, which creases and peels when you sit. Back the round eyeholes with black mesh and sit big silver sunglasses above them. Underneath, wear a metallic long-sleeve top, flared pants and silver platform-style sneakers. A glittery headband under the sheet keeps it steady, and a light silver afro-style wig can sit on top. Carry a small mirror-ball purse, and keep loose decorations away from the hem, where they catch on your shoes.
7. Princess Sheet Ghost Costume
A little crown floating on top turns the ghost into a princess. Use an ivory or pale lavender sheet with rounded edges and mesh-lined eyes. Put a padded headband underneath, then fix a light silver crown over the fabric with clear elastic that loops under the band. A satin ribbon tied at the waist gives the drape some shape without pinning your arms. Underneath, a long-sleeve pastel dress and opaque tights keep you covered, with silver flats or glitter sneakers instead of heels. Sew on small fabric stars, a few pearls and a gentle felt smile. A light wand topped with a foam star keeps every edge soft, and if your face shows, shimmer shadow, pink blush and gloss suit it.
8. Bride Sheet Ghost Costume
The ghost bride is one of the prettiest versions and costs very little. Choose an ivory sheet that falls to mid-calf and cut neat, mesh-backed eyeholes. Add a short white tulle veil, and secure both the veil and the sheet to a comb headband hidden underneath; tulle is slippery and won't stay on fabric by itself. Faux pearls, white satin gloves and a small fabric bouquet set the theme without a real dress. Underneath, a simple white midi dress or a white top with flowing pants works, with white ballet flats or low block heels. A lace ribbon belt gives the sheet a waist while keeping its drape. Long felt eyelashes above the sheet's eyes give the covered version an expression.
9. Prom Queen Sheet Ghost Costume
A prom queen ghost is a fun school-dance joke. Cut a clean white sheet to ankle length, add black mesh behind the eyes and wear a pastel formal dress underneath so a bit of its tulle or satin hem peeks out. Fix a light tiara on top to a hidden headband. Make the “Prom Queen” sash before you wear it, with iron-on letters or fabric markers, and tack it to the sheet at the shoulder and hip; a loose sash slides up and ends up across the eyeholes. White gloves, a small wrist corsage and silver flats finish the look. Felt eyelashes, pink cheeks and a smile on the fabric give the covered face personality, and a tiny metallic clutch fits the theme.
10. Witch Sheet Ghost Costume
A pointed hat is all a ghost needs to become a witch. Use a charcoal, purple or white sheet with large felt eyes and hidden mesh. A tall hat tips over easily, so fasten it to a cap underneath, and stuff the point with a little tissue to keep it upright. Wrap the brim with purple ribbon and add felt stars for colour. Below the sheet, wear a black long-sleeve dress, striped tights and flat buckled ankle boots. A short velvet cape outside the ghost layer adds swing without dragging. Carry a small decorative broom made with soft twigs or raffia, and keep the face friendly with a curved felt smile. Purple eye makeup works if any of your face shows.
11. Flower Sheet Ghost Costume
Flowers make a cheerful ghost, but weight is the problem to watch. Cut a white sheet to mid-calf, round the corners and make mesh-backed eyes. Sew faux daisies, pastel fabric flowers and green felt leaves around the lower edge and shoulders, and keep them well away from the eyes. I remove the plastic stems from fake flowers before attaching them; the heads alone are much lighter. Fix a flower crown over the fabric to a hidden headband. A light green top, leggings and white sneakers underneath coordinate with the garden idea. White gloves with felt leaves at the wrists and a mini watering can make easy additions, and felt eyelashes with pink cheeks give the covered face a friendly look.
12. Pumpkin Sheet Ghost Costume
This ghost borrows a pumpkin, and the felt shape is the whole costume. Cut a large bright orange felt pumpkin for the front, give it a cheerful black face, and keep it well below your eyeholes so the two faces don't compete. A green felt leaf and a curly fabric stem go near the top, fixed through to a hidden cap. Wear an orange shirt, black leggings, striped socks and black sneakers underneath. A large felt shape tends to fold and flap as you walk, so tie an orange ribbon belt across its lower edge to hold it flat. Back the eyes with breathable mesh, trim the hem above the shoes, and carry a pumpkin candy bucket with orange gloves or leaf cuffs.
13. Cat Sheet Ghost Costume
A cat ghost needs ears that stand up, which means they can't rely on the sheet. Use a white, grey or pale pink sheet with mesh-lined eyes cut wide enough for clear vision. Stuff felt cat ears lightly and sew them to a sturdy headband hidden under the fabric, so they push the sheet up into shape. Add a felt nose, a curved mouth and stitched whiskers on the front. Underneath, wear a matching sweatshirt, leggings and non-slip sneakers. Pin a light fabric tail to a ribbon belt rather than to the loose sheet, which keeps it centred instead of drifting sideways. Gloves with felt paw pads and a yarn-ball bag for your treats finish it.
14. Bat Sheet Ghost Costume
Wings give a ghost a dramatic shape when you lift your arms. Choose a black or dark purple sheet with big white eyes and mesh panels. Wear a fitted black top and leggings underneath, then attach light scalloped wings to your sleeves and sides with elastic wrist loops, so they open when you raise your arms and fold down while you walk. I cut the wings from lightweight fabric rather than felt, since felt wings get heavy and droop. Small stuffed bat ears sit on a hidden headband. Black sneakers or flat ankle boots give a stable base, and purple gloves with a silver moon bag add contrast. Felt fangs keep it playful, and reflective trim along the wings helps outdoors.
15. Rainbow Sheet Ghost Costume
Stripes make a bright, cheerful ghost that's great in photos. Trim a white cotton sheet to mid-calf. Paint a curved rainbow across the lower front with flexible fabric paint, or sew on wide strips of coloured felt; paint stays lighter and moves with the sheet, felt is quicker and easier to get neat. Keep the eye area clear. Secure the sheet over a padded rainbow headband and add small white clouds near the shoulders. A bright sweatshirt, leggings, striped socks and white sneakers go underneath. A rainbow mini backpack worn outside keeps your things close, and short ribbon streamers at the wrists add movement; cut them short or they tangle. Felt eyelashes, pink cheeks and a small smile finish the face.
16. Glow In The Dark Sheet Ghost Costume
After dark, a glowing outline makes the ghost easy to see. Start with a white sheet with neatly finished eyeholes and black mesh. Add battery-powered LED wire or glow tape around the eyes, mouth and hem, and tuck the battery pack into a small fabric pocket sewn inside. Don't run the wire where the fabric folds sharply, because repeated bending breaks it. A white sweatshirt, leggings and sneakers underneath keep the base hidden, and a cap gives you somewhere to anchor the wiring. Reflective wristbands keep your hand movements visible. Switch everything on at home first, check the battery is fresh, and keep the hem short enough for safe steps.
17. Skeleton Sheet Ghost Costume
Bones turn the sheet into a graphic skeleton. On black fabric, apply white felt ribs, arm bones and leg bones, or reverse it with black bones on a white sheet. I'd sew or use a fabric glue for the felt rather than hot glue, which lets go as the sheet moves. Big contrasting eyes with mesh openings and a simple stitched smile finish the face. Wear a matching black or white long-sleeve layer, leggings, gloves and comfortable sneakers underneath; bone shapes on the gloves connect the arms to the body. A close cap steadies the sheet, and hand openings let you carry a treat bag. Keep the bones stylised rather than realistic, so it stays fun for kids.
18. Vintage Sheet Ghost Costume
A vintage ghost looks gently old, never dirty. Choose an ivory, faded floral or tea-coloured sheet, and shape the hem into soft scallops; tea-dyeing a white cotton sheet gives that colour cheaply. Back oval eyeholes with mesh, then add felt lashes and a curved mouth. A lace-trimmed bonnet goes over the fabric and ties loosely under the chin with ribbon that never presses on your throat. Underneath, a high-neck blouse, long skirt, opaque tights and lace-up ankle boots fit the period. A cameo-style brooch, faux pearls and a small structured handbag add charm, and lace cuffs at the hand openings blend your sleeves into the sheet. Soft matte powder and rosy cheeks suit any skin that shows.
19. Ballerina Sheet Ghost Costume
A tutu gives the ghost a bounce when you walk. Cut a white or blush sheet to the knee, add mesh-backed eyes and fix it to a fitted headband. Tie a pink ribbon at the waist, then layer a light tulle tutu over the sheet; the ribbon underneath stops the tutu from sliding down the slippery cotton. Wear a long-sleeve leotard or fitted top with opaque leggings for coverage. Pink ballet flats are fine indoors, but blush sneakers support you better outside. A small fabric bun or tulle bow on top suggests a dancer's hair. Satin wrist ribbons, a music-note bag, felt eyelashes and pink cheek circles finish it, and make sure both layers end well above the ankle.
20. Superhero Sheet Ghost Costume
A cape and a chest emblem give the ghost superhero energy. Make the base from a white sheet with carefully placed mesh eye panels and a hem that clears the ankles. Add a big felt lightning bolt or star to the chest in blue, red or yellow. I attach the short cape at the shoulders with hook-and-loop tabs so it pulls away if someone grabs it or it catches on a door, rather than tugging at your neck. Wear a bright sweatshirt, leggings, gloves and supportive high-tops underneath. A fabric eye mask can sit outside the sheet, lined up with the viewing holes. Anchor everything over a cap so it holds through action poses, with soft foam wrist cuffs and a belt of small treat pouches.
21. Pirate Sheet Ghost Costume
A pirate ghost is easy to read without any realistic weapons. Start with an ivory or light grey sheet cut to mid-calf and sew a few uneven felt patches around the edges. Put black mesh behind both eyeholes, then add a soft fabric eye patch over one of the drawn eyes, never over your actual viewing hole. A striped shirt, black cropped pants, tall socks and flat brown boots go underneath. Tie a red sash at the waist and fix a light tricorn-style hat to a hidden cap. A drawstring pouch of plastic gold coins makes a safe prop, and a curled felt mustache and a friendly smile finish the face. Keep the sheet clean and any distressing subtle.
22. Chef Sheet Ghost Costume
The tall white hat makes the chef ghost obvious from down the street. Make a knee-length white sheet ghost with black felt eyes and hidden mesh. Chef hats are light but tall, so anchor yours to a fitted cap underneath or it will flop with every step. Add a red neckerchief and a double row of black felt buttons down the front. Wear a white long-sleeve shirt, black pants and non-slip black sneakers underneath. Cut finished openings for your hands and add white gloves. A light mixing bowl and wooden spoon are the props, nothing sharp or heavy. A felt mustache, a smile and a little felt menu card or apron pocket on the front add the humour.
23. Rock Star Sheet Ghost Costume
The rock star ghost is all shine and attitude. Use a white or silver sheet cut around the knee, with mesh behind the eyeholes. Sew on silver lightning shapes and fabric stars, and add a fringe strip down the sides, which swings nicely when you move. A plain black tee, faux-leather pants and comfortable platform boots go underneath. Set oversized sunglasses over the sheet with clear elastic. A bright synthetic wig can sit on top; I sew small loops inside the wig and stitch them through to the hidden cap so it can't slide off. Carry an inflatable guitar or foam microphone, add fingerless gloves and a studded fabric belt, and let felt lashes and a big smile do the face.
24. Bookworm Sheet Ghost Costume
The bookworm ghost suits school events, library parties and anyone who'd rather haunt the shelves. Start with a white or cream sheet cut to mid-calf, with round mesh-backed eyes and a small felt smile. Oversized round glasses go over the fabric, fixed to a hidden headband; empty frames or a cheap pair with the lenses popped out are lighter and safer. A collared shirt, cardigan, plaid pants and loafers or sneakers go underneath. Wrap a soft striped scarf loosely around the sheet, away from the eyeholes. Carry a light notebook or foam book rather than a real stack, plus a small crossbody satchel for your things, and tuck a felt pencil behind one ear.
25. Sleepy Sheet Ghost Costume
The sleepy ghost plays on the bedsheet joke. Use a soft white sheet with mesh-covered eyes and a yawning felt mouth. Wear matching pajamas and warm socks underneath, and if you're going outside, swap house slippers for something with a real sole; slippers with non-slip soles are fine for indoor parties. A fabric nightcap goes over the sheet, fixed to a hidden cap or headband. Sew small felt stars and moons across the costume, but nothing dangling. Carry a small pillow or plush cloud. A light robe belt at the waist shapes the sheet and can hold a little sleep mask. Keep the hem above your feet so you're not tripping on the way to the snacks.
26. Rainy Day Sheet Ghost Costume
When the forecast looks wet, this ghost is the practical answer, since a cotton sheet soaks through and clings in the rain. Use a short white synthetic sheet or water-resistant tablecloth fabric, cut roomy so air can still move inside, and fix it over a brimmed rain hat that keeps drips off the eye mesh. Wear a bright yellow raincoat, leggings and waterproof boots underneath, with the coat hem and boots showing. A clear poncho over the top adds protection if it's pouring. A clear umbrella with removable white cloud shapes belongs in open spaces only. Blue felt raindrops and a small rainbow patch near the hem finish it, and check your view before you go, as wind shifts everything.
27. Gardener Sheet Ghost Costume
Flowers and garden gear make a friendly gardener ghost. Begin with a cream or white sheet cut below the knee, with breathable mesh behind the eyes. Sew fabric leaves, daisies and tiny felt vegetables around the hem, spacing them out so the edge doesn't sag. Denim overalls, a plaid shirt, gardening gloves and sturdy green rain boots go underneath. A floppy straw hat over the sheet should be tied to a hidden baseball cap with elastic, because straw brims catch the wind. A green ribbon belt can hold empty seed packets or felt tools. Carry a mini watering can or a basket of fabric flowers instead of real tools, and give the ghost a felt smile and rosy cheeks. It's a nice pick for daytime parties.
28. Bee Sheet Ghost Costume
Stripes and wings turn a white ghost into a bee. Make a knee-length sheet base with mesh-lined eyes, then sew wide yellow and black fabric bands around the lower half; bands of felt or fleece are easier than painting, which bleeds at the edges. A soft antenna headband goes over the sheet, anchored to a fitted cap. Attach light translucent wings at the back with hook-and-loop so they come off if pulled. Wear a black top, leggings, striped socks and yellow sneakers underneath, with black gloves and a honeycomb bag. A felt smile and pink cheeks keep it friendly. Check the wings are narrower than a doorway and the hem is high enough for crowds.
29. Alien Sheet Ghost Costume
The alien ghost is a fun change from white. Use a silver-grey sheet or light reflective fabric with big almond-shaped black felt eyes, and hide breathable mesh inside the dark shapes so you can still see. Reflective fabrics often don't breathe at all, so cut a few hidden vents under the arms. A silver top, leggings and white sneakers go underneath. A bendy antenna headband sits over the fabric on a close cap. A metallic belt and soft silver gloves with slightly extended fingertips add to the look, and a small round crossbody bag decorated with felt buttons becomes a control panel. Keep the shape round and simple so it reads as a funny visitor, not a scary one.
30. Clown Sheet Ghost Costume
The clown ghost is all colour and pom-poms. Start with a white sheet cut to mid-calf with large mesh-backed eyes, curved felt eyebrows and a bright red smile. Sew three oversized fabric pom-poms down the front; pom-poms made from fleece hold their shape better than yarn ones, which shed. A soft pointed party hat sits on top. Underneath, wear a striped long-sleeve shirt, bright pants, striped socks and comfy sneakers. A loose, removable ruffled collar around the neck area adds the circus feel. White gloves and a balloon-shaped bag mean you don't need anything in your hands. Keep the colours bright and the face cheerful, not eerie.
Seeing Where You're Going in the Dark
A sheet over your head cuts your side vision more than people expect, and a ghost on a dark street is hard for drivers to see. A few habits make a big difference, especially for kids.
- Cut the eyeholes larger than you think you need, then cover them with mesh. A bigger opening with mesh gives better vision than two small holes.
- Fix the sheet to a cap or headband so the eyeholes can't drift when you turn your head; that drift is what makes people trip.
- Walk a set of stairs at home in the finished costume before the night, ideally with the lights low.
- Add reflective tape or ribbon along the hem and on the back, where headlights catch it.
- Carry a small torch or wear a light-up wristband, and leave a hand opening so you can hold a rail.
Washing the Ghost for Next Year
Sheet ghosts are worth keeping. Take off anything glued or removable first, like hats, sunglasses and wings, then hand-wash or use a gentle cold cycle inside a pillowcase so felt shapes don't stretch or pill. Fabric paint generally survives washing once it's been heat-set with an iron, as the paint's instructions describe. Dry it flat or on a line rather than in a hot dryer, which can shrink cotton and loosen glued felt. Fold it with tissue between any painted areas and store it with the hidden cap, so next October the whole costume is ready.
One Sheet, Thirty Personalities
Every ghost here starts from the same simple shape and gets its personality from one or two added details. Choose a breathable sheet, finish every opening so it doesn't tear, and put dark mesh behind the eyes if you'd like to stay hidden. A cap or headband underneath keeps the costume steady, and a carefully trimmed hem is what makes walking safe. From the plain white ghost and the sunglasses joke to the bee, alien, princess and cowboy, small changes give very different results. Good base layers and shoes you can walk in matter as much as the decorations, especially on a long trick-or-treat route. Start with what's already in your linen cupboard and craft box.
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