Easy DIY Ghost Candles Using Just Hot Water (Make Them in Minutes!)
Learn how to create your own hauntingly cute DIY ghost candles in minutes!
No crafting magic is required for this spooky project! In just minutes, you can make these DIY ghost candles using just hot water and a Sharpie.
This DIY ghost candle craft is so simple, it’s almost scary! With just a taper candle, some hot water, and a black Sharpie, you can create adorable ghost decorations in minutes.
Trust me, if I can pull this off, anyone can. It’s the perfect no-fuss Halloween project for all skill levels, and you’ll have a spooky touch to your decor before you know it!
Chances are, you may already have everything you need for this easy DIY ghost candle craft sitting around your home – making this DIY essentially free! 🤩
If not, you can easily pick up affordable supplies anywhere! You can shop my exact items from Walmart if you’d like to keep this craft budget-friendly. I also linked to my wooden Halloween sign (under $10) and mini skeleton decor (under $3) shown in the photos.
Tips for making my DIY Halloween candles:
- Use hot (but not boiling) water: This softens the wax without melting it completely, making the candles easier to bend.
- Work quickly: Once you remove the candles from the water, they harden fast, so shape them immediately to avoid cracking.
- Have your tools ready: Keep a towel or cloth nearby to gently dry and shape the candle without damaging the wax.
- Practice your ghost faces: Try drawing your ghost face on paper first to get the look you want before using the Sharpie on the candle.
- Test with a cheap candle: If you’re unsure, practice bending with a less expensive candle to get a feel for it before working on your final piece.
- Trim the wicks: Before lighting your ghost candles cut the wicks down to about 1/4 inch. This will help extend the burn time and prevent the flame from getting too large, allowing you to enjoy your spooky décor longer!
Here’s how to make ghost candles in minutes:
DIY Ghost Taper Candles
PrintSupplies Needed
- Taper Candles
- Taper Candle Holders
- Black Sharpie
- Hot water
- Towel (for drying)
Directions
1
Fill a container with hot (but not boiling) water. Make sure it’s deep enough to fully submerge the candles. Place the taper candles in the hot water for about 10-15 minutes, or until they become flexible enough to bend without breaking.
2
While still in the water, gently bend the candles into your desired shape. Be sure to work quickly, as they harden once removed from the water. Once you’re happy with the shape, take them out and lay on a towel to dry.
3
Use your black Sharpie to draw ghost faces on the front of the candles. Get creative with different expressions!
4
Cut the wicks down to about 1/4 inch to help extend the burn time and create a safer flame. Set your spooky ghost candles on display and light them to enjoy your festive Halloween décor!
These adorable DIY ghost taper candles are not only super easy to make but also bring a delightful, spooky ambiance to your Halloween celebrations. Keep in mind, after burning for a while the faces will melt away so be sure to keep your Sharpie handy so you can redraw them when you’re done burning and want to enjoy their aesthetic before the next burning session.
Grab your supplies and let your creativity shine for a hauntingly fun project! 👻
LOVE THIS!!!!
Thanks, sunshine0826! I’m so glad you enjoyed this post.
I don’t plan to be doing any Halloween celebrations this year, but just want to give Sara a shoutout- this is a really great idea! Clever, cute, and frugal:)
Thank you so much, Michele! I’m not one to decorate much for Halloween/Fall either so this felt like a really approachable DIY and I’m glad you enjoyed it. 🥰
So cute! Is there any way you could include a how-to video? 👻
Hi Jenn! We have a video posted on our Instagram here, if you’d like to check that out. 💕