If you’ve been on social media recently, you’ve likely seen the rise of the “ghost painting” trend — a whimsical, spooky, yet charming art craze perfect for Halloween.
Artists and crafters are transforming thrifted portraits into eerie, artwork using minimal colors and exaggerated, floating silhouettes.
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If you’re looking for a fun DIY project, now is the perfect time to jump on this trend and create a masterpiece.
Let’s explore why ghost painting has captured the imagination of so many!
Why the Ghost Painting Trend is Popular
- It is accessible to all skill levels because ghosts are so easy to paint
- Inexpensive if you use thrifted or yard sale art piece
- A playful, yet spooky, aesthetic that resonates with a wide audience
- It’s a fun DIY activity for both individuals and groups
Gather Materials
Gather the following materials to complete this project:
- Framed Art- purchase at a yard sale or thrift store
- White paint
- Black paint
- Brown paint
- Paintbrushes
- Glass cleaner
- Pliers- optional
Prepare the picture
Remove the picture from the frame.
I cut the old string hanger off and used pliers to bend back the nails.
Then, I removed the cardboard from the back and discovered the mat was glued to the picture on one side.
So I carefully separated them and set the mat aside.
The last step is to clean the glass thoroughly.
Steps to Make a Ghost Painting
I highly suggest practicing on scrap paper before drawing on your picture.
I used a piece of brown craft paper.
Draw the ghost in pencil
Use a pencil to sketch the shape of your ghost.
Paint the ghost
Paint the ghost white and let it dry.
Next, use black paint and add the eyes.
Antique the ghosts
I feared my ghosts would look too white in my picture, so I darkened them up to add an antiqued look.
Mix a small amount of brown paint with water to thin it.
Paint it over the ghost and use a paper towel to remove the excess.
Paint ghosts on the picture
Repeat the steps from above but this time use your picture!
When it’s dry put it back into the frame.
Now it’s ready to display!
Display your Ghost Painting
Right now, I’m displaying my ghost painting on the shelf in our eat-in kitchen.
I surrounded it with an accordion pumpkin and pear that matched the colors in the picture.
I adore those sweet little ghosts!
In Conclusion
We hope you’ll try this fun DIY project!
Its simplicity and charm make it an easy project, whether you’re an experienced artist or just picking up a paintbrush for the first time.
So what are you waiting for, now is the perfect time to join the community of ghost-painting enthusiasts and create a Halloween masterpiece.
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Until next time, follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram!
Blessings, Donna and Rich
More DIY Artwork Inspiration
If you’re interested in making artwork, check out these posts:
- Tips to Make Framed Canvas Wall Art for Fall
- How to Create DIY Seashell Wall Decor
- Repurpose a Wood Sign Into Artwork
GET THE LOOK
If DIY is not your thing, check out this ghostly art you can purchase.
Click on the links below the picture to get more information on the item you are interested in.
Halloween Art Prints | Ghost Art on Framed Canvas | Variety of Ghost Prints
Pin It For Later
Don’t forget to pin this so you can remember it!
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Oh my gosh! I love this! The peeking around the tree is my favorite! They really pop out of the picture! You are so talented.
Hi Kathy! I’m so glad to hear from you! Isn’t this the cutest idea! Griffin helped me with the placement of the ghosts, but then I made them my own! Hope you and your family are all well!
Love this spooky and cute ghost painting, Donna! I have been looking for a thrifted painting but no luck yet. Featuring you at the Creatively Crafty Linky Party! Creatively, Beth
Thanks Beth! It took me almost a year to find the perfect picture! I hope you find one sooner than that! Thanks for the feature and I’ll see ya at the party!
Oh my goodness Donna, I did not realize this was a trend until recently, and I have to say, I am all in! I love the ghost peeking around the tree. I am not someone who can paint all that well, but I think I may be able to pull this one off. I need to head to the thrift store to see what I can find. Too cute! I have to say, I am impressed with your ghost making skills too. You always have such interesting and fun ideas to share.
Thank you for your kind words, Cara! I really appreciate it! I can’t draw but painting the ghosts was easy! The only hard part was finding a picture I liked! Let me know if you try this one!