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How to make clay halloween decorations

By Bunnings Magazine /

Clay ghost Halloween decorations.

Overview

Create a spooky scene with D.I.Y. Halloween decorations for your trick-or-treat table. In this step-by-step guide we show you how to make classic white ghosts from air dry clay – it’s super easy to use and fun to work with, making this a great craft project to do with the kids.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Make a ghost mould

Hot glue a styrofoam ball to the base of an upturned paper cup, then cover with plastic wrap.
A pair of hands drape plastic wrap over a styrofoam ball on an upturned paper cup.

2Roll and cut clay

Knead and roll a piece of clay into a tennis-ball size with your hands. Roll out clay to 6mm thick, put the bowl on top and use the shaping tool from the kit to cut through the clay around the rim
Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: Re-roll offcuts to make more ghosts.
A hand uses a wooden craft tool to cut around an upturned bowl on a clay disc.

3Shape the clay ghost

Drape the clay circle over the mould and use your fingers to make the folds in the ghost. Cut out the eyes and mouth with the carving and loop tools from the clay kit.
A wooden carving tool is used to cut out eyes and mouth from a clay ghost form.

4Seal the clay

Use a wet finger to smooth cut edges of clay, then leave to dry completely. Remove ghost from mould and apply Mod Podge to seal using a paintbrush; leave to dry. Use a wet finger to smooth cut edges of clay, then leave to dry completely. Remove ghost from mould and apply Mod Podge to seal using a paintbrush; leave to dry.
A clear matte sealer is applied to the clay ghost using a craft paintbrush.

5Keep in mind...

  • When painting and hot glueing, always wear eye protection, a mask and gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.
  • Keep all paint and chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do not use clay tools or equipment for food.

    • 6Looking for more projects to do with the kids?

    Health & Safety

    Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

    When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.