Introduction: A Timelapsed How to Make the Timeless Bed Sheet Ghost Costume

By Imgur
About: I’m an imagineer at heart. What began as cardboard builds with my kids has grown into a whole collection of creative projects we share together. From DIY props to electronics and cosplay gear, I'll post it all…

A sheet, a few stitches, and a little Halloween spirit; that’s all you need to make this nostalgic ghost costume. Follow along step by step as we unfold, cut, and sew a simple spooky fun outfit perfect for trick or treating.

Supplies

  1. 1 white bed sheet (we used a twin size)
  2. Measuring tape
  3. Fabric marker or chalk
  4. Scissors
  5. Black sheer mesh fabric (sometimes sold as tulle, power mesh, or sheer nylon)
  6. Needle & thread or sewing machine
  7. Spit guard or clear face shield with glasses-style frame
  8. Fabric tape (double-sided or sewing-specific)
  9. Iron and ironing board

Notes and Tips

  1. For smaller kids, use a pillowcase or crib sheet instead of a full bed sheet.
  2. Glow in the dark fabric tape or LED strips inside can make your ghost even creepier and more visable at night.
  3. If sewing isn’t your thing, fabric glue can be used in a pinch (though it won’t last as long).

Step 1: Unfold & Mark

  1. Fold the sheet in half lengthwise, with the fold at the top.
  2. Find and mark the center point at the top fold; this will be your pendulum mark.
  3. Measure and mark the eye locations while your child slips underneath for positioning.


Step 2: Pendulum Cut and Eye Holes

  1. Measure the desired length of the ghost.
  2. Place the tape measure at the top center point and swing it like a pendulum, marking the curve along the bottom edge.
  3. Cut along the curve to create a rounded bottom which keeps it from dragging on the ground.
  4. Cut out the eye holes using your earlier markings.


Step 3: Eye Details


  1. Cut pieces of black mesh fabric (tulle/power mesh/nylon) and fold them for extra opacity.
  2. Sew the mesh behind the eye holes; this lets the child see out but hides their face.
  3. On the inside, attach a spit guard with a glasses frame using fabric tape.(any glasses frame would work)
  4. This keeps the eyes aligned with the child’s face.
  5. It also helps the sheet hold its shape while worn.


Step 4: Iron and Sew the Seam

  1. Iron the bottom edge to create a crisp fold.
  2. Sew along the edge to finish the seam and prevent fraying.


Step 5: Trick or Treat

And that’s it; slip into your new ghost costume, haunt the neighborhood, and fill that candy bucket. Bonus points if your spooky reveal includes glowing eyes or a skeleton helper.