The Beginner-Friendly DIY That Turns An Old Milk Jug Into A Ghost Lantern

If Halloween snuck up on you and you're looking for items you already have in your home that make great Halloween decor, this budget-friendly DIY is perfect: Turn an empty milk jug into a ghost lantern. In just minutes, with minimal supplies or skill, this quick project can be completed in only a few easy steps. Wash out an empty white milk jug and let it dry. Then, use a waterproof black marker to draw a face on the front of the milk jug. Cut a hole in the side and insert a battery-operated votive candle or fairy lights into the jug.

This DIY is so simple that your kids can do it themselves if they're old enough to use scissors without injury. There are also ways to make these lanterns without scissors. It's ideal if you're trying to keep them occupied while you take care of last-minute Halloween costume or party details. It's also perfect for new DIYers and crafters looking for a low-stakes project to start with. Create several spirit jugs and line them up on your porch to light the way for trick-or-treaters. For another, similar project, you can create Halloween pumpkin light-up decor with Dollar Tree items.

If your kids aren't old enough to use scissors, they can still do this project. Instead of cutting a hole in the side, just give them some glow sticks to put into the milk jug's spout and screw the cap back on. No scissors needed, and no risk to little fingers. If you only have clear or yellow milk jugs, you can paint them a semi-transparent white (or any other color) before you start. This is also a good idea if you're looking for a slightly more personalized project that's still simple.

If you don't want to give your kids permanent markers — or you don't have any lying around — you can use washable paint to make the faces, but you'll have to make sure to keep your final creation dry. Given the same warning, you can also use black construction paper — just cut out the shapes for the face and glue them onto the milk jug. A slightly more sophisticated look can be achieved using decoupage. Tear or cut white tissue paper into small pieces. Paint the milk jug with store-bought or homemade Mod Podge. Overlap the tissue paper until the entire surface is covered. Give the milk jug a final coat to seal it, and once it's dry, create the ghost's face. These reusable spooky plastic lanterns beat trying to keep carved pumpkins from rotting on your doorstep every time.