Secure a string to a Mylar balloon filled with air or helium. Pro tip: Mylar foil balloons hold their shape for at least a week, even as they slowly deflate, keeping your ghost looking ethereal.
Set the balloon aside and cut cheesecloth into various lengths: at least two short pieces (a couple of inches longer than the balloon on all sides), two medium (5 to 10 inches longer), and two long (12 to 18 inches longer).
Locate the center of one small cheesecloth piece. Gently separate the fibers with scissors or your finger to form a hole.
Thread the balloon's string through the hole and drape the cheesecloth fully over the balloon.
Layer the remaining cheesecloth pieces over the balloon, alternating short, medium, and long lengths for a natural, flowing shape.
With the final layer in place, craft the face. Cut two pieces of black tape, each 3 to 5 inches long.
From the tape, cut two tall oval shapes for the eyes.
Lift back one layer of cheesecloth, position the eyes on the underlying layer, and press firmly to secure.
Repeat for thin rectangular eyebrows (pinch one end for a raised look) and a small circular mouth.
Pull the top cheesecloth layer over the face. Your hanging ghost is ready to suspend and haunt your Halloween display.
