Step 1

Attach a String
Attach a string to a Mylar balloon (filled with air or helium). Note: If you’re using a Mylar foil balloon, it will last at least a week. Even as it deflates, the ghost will keep its shape.
Step 2

Cut Your Cheesecloth
Set the balloon aside while cutting pieces of cheesecloth to various lengths. You’ll need at least two layers that are short (pieces that are only a couple of inches longer on all sides than the balloon); two medium (5 to 10 inches longer than the balloon on all sides); and two long (12 to 18 inches longer than the balloon on all sides).
Step 3

Create a Hole
Find the center of one of the smaller pieces of cheesecloth. Use scissors or your finger to gently move the fibers around to create a hole.
Step 4

Thread the String
Thread the string from the balloon through the hole, and drape the cheesecloth over the balloon completely.
Step 5

And Repeat
Repeat the process with all of the pieces of cheesecloth. Alternate the order in which the different lengths are added.
Step 6

Make a Face
When the final layer has been added, it is time to create the face. Cut two small pieces of black duct tape roughly 3 to 5 inches each.
Step 7

Create the Eyes
Cut two tall oval shapes from each piece of tape to create the eyes.
Step 8

Attach the Eyes
Pull back one layer of the cheesecloth. Then attach the eyes to the cheesecloth face and then press down firmly.
Step 9

Add Mouth and Eyebrows
Repeat this process for eyebrows (skinny rectangles that have been pinched on one end to create the look of a raised brow) and a small mouth (circle shape).
Step 10

Final Touch
Pull the top layer of cheesecloth back over the face and you are ready to hang.