DIY Project

Paint · Halloween · Toddlers

Handprint ghost

A spooky little ghost made from your toddler's white handprint on black paper, and a keepsake of how small that hand was this October.

Handprint ghost
LevelBeginner
AgesAges 1 to 3
Time10 minutes plus drying
Cost$0 to $4

What you'll need

Materials

Tick them off as you find them.

Tools

How to make it

Safety

Use paint labeled washable and non-toxic (look for the AP seal), and wipe hands before snack time.

  1. Step 1: Set up the wipes
    1

    Set up the wipes

    Open the wipes and park them right next to you. You'll want them in about 30 seconds.

  2. Step 2: Paint the hand
    2

    Paint the hand

    Brush white paint over your toddler's palm and fingers. It tickles, so expect giggles.

  3. Step 3: Press it down
    3

    Press it down

    Hold their hand flat on the paper, fingers together and pointing down. Press each finger gently.

  4. Step 4: Lift straight up
    4

    Lift straight up

    Peel the hand off in 1 smooth move. Wipe it right away.

  5. Step 5: Add a face
    5

    Add a face

    Once it's dry, draw 2 eyes and an O mouth on the palm part with marker. Fingers become the wavy bottom of the ghost.

  6. Step 6: Date it
    6

    Date it

    Write the date and their age on the back. You'll be glad you did next year.

Edie's tip

Do 2 or 3 prints in a row. Wriggly toddlers rarely nail the first one.

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