Simple Halloween Paper Crafts Ideas

Paper Plate Jack O' Lanterns

Make a simple jack o' lantern with a paper plate and some scraps of paper. Either purchase orange plates or have children paint the plates orange. Once the paint dries, create jack o' lantern faces by gluing scraps of black construction paper trimmed into triangles and other shapes onto the plates. Allow the children to express themselves with the faces, cutting their own shapes and arranging them however they wish. This craft can also be turned into a mask. Instead of gluing on paper scraps for eyes, cut holes in the plate. Punch a hole in each side of the plate, run a string or piece of yarn through the holes, and tie it in the back for a spooky Halloween mask.

Silhouetted shapes cut from black construction paper are simple crafts that add a lot of interest to your Halloween decor. Draw or download patterns for bats, spiders, mice, cats, witches or other Halloween motifs, and trace them onto black construction paper. Cut out the shapes and use them around the house for easy spooky decor. For example, cut out several different mice and arrange them so they are running up the stairs or down the hall, or hang several bats from the ceiling using fishing line. Link several cut outs together to create a garland.

Hand out Halloween treats during a party in paper cones made from themed scrapbook paper. For each cone, you'll need one sheet of 12-by-12-inch patterned scrapbook paper. Roll the paper into a cone shape, with the patterned side facing out. Use glue dots or staples to hold the cone in place, and trim around the top edge with decorative scissors to create an even top. Punch a hole into each side of the cone and run a ribbon through the holes for a handle. Fill the cones with candy, or leave them empty so your guests can select their own treats.

Create custom treat containers for the little trick-or-treaters to carry or to hold a Halloween surprise for a friend or neighbor. A clean, empty container such as a coffee can, or a metal paint-can style container serves as the base for the craft. Cover the container with Halloween themed papers, die-cut shapes, stickers and embellishments. Use spray adhesive to attach the papers to the can to ensure a strong, even hold.