Halloween is almost here, and if you get trick-or-treaters in your neighborhood, this DIY tomato cage ghosts with a twist project is one you’ll definitely want to try. These tomato cage ghosts with a twist are budget-friendly, easy to make, and will wow your visitors on Halloween night.
So, what’s the twist?
These spooky-cute ghosts aren’t just for decoration—they’ll also be passing out your candy this year!
Why Make DIY Tomato Cage Ghosts with a Twist?
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Quick + affordable to make
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Fun for kids and adults
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Lights up beautifully at night
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Functional: they can hold your candy cauldron!
Supplies for DIY Tomato Cage Ghosts with a Twist
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Tomato cages (4-pack linked here)
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White twin or queen-size flat sheet (or white fabric drop cloth)
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String lights (warm white for cozy, orange for classic Halloween)
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Zip ties or duct tape (to secure the cage tips)
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Black felt or adhesive vinyl (for ghost faces)
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Optional: cheesecloth, gauze, or mesh fabric for layered texture
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Optional twist: add a hat, bow, scarf, or seasonal accessory for personality
Shop the kits in my Amazon Storefront here
How to Make DIY Tomato Cage Ghosts with a Twist
Step 1: Build Your Frame
Flip your tomato cage upside down so the stakes are pointing up. Pull the tips together and secure with zip ties or duct tape—this creates the rounded ghost head.
Step 2: Add Lights
Wrap string lights around the cage, starting from the bottom and working up. For a brighter glow, double wrap or layer lights inside. Plug into an outdoor extension cord with a timer for easy on/off.
Step 3: Drape Your Fabric
Throw your sheet or fabric over the cage so it flows to the ground. Adjust until it looks natural and ghost-like. If you want extra dimension, layer with cheesecloth or gauze for a “haunted” look.
Step 4: Add a Face
Cut out large oval eyes and a round mouth from black felt, or use adhesive vinyl for a crisp, modern look. Attach with fabric glue, hot glue, or peel-and-stick.
Step 5: The Twist
Here’s where you can make your ghosts stand out:
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Add a witch hat for a magical vibe.
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Tie on a velvet bow or scarf for a whimsical touch.
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Use colored lights inside for a moody glow.
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Give each ghost a “personality” so they feel like a spooky little family.
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Step 6: The Twist!
Place your cauldron into the slit on one arm, fill it with candy, and let your DIY tomato cage ghost with a twist become the cutest candy-passer on the block.
Styling Tips For The DIY Tomato Cage Ghosts With A Twist
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Group 3+ together for more impact—vary their heights for dimension.
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Place them along a walkway, on your porch, or in the yard.
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Mix them with pumpkins, lanterns, or cornstalks for a layered Halloween display.
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If you love a neutral look, stick with warm white lights and fabric for a chic, ghostly vibe.
Final Look Of The DIY Tomato Cage Ghosts With A Twist
When the sun sets, these glowing ghosts truly come alive. They’re fun, festive, and so easy to make. Plus, with the little twist you add, they’ll be one-of-a-kind and totally you.
Pin & Share
Love this idea? Pin the image below to your Halloween DIY board so you can come back to it later!
If you are looking for other clever ways to hand out Halloween candy, you might like this post where I share how to make this pumpkin candy holder.
I also have free printable Halloween candy papers that you can leave out if you are away. Get them here!
You can see everything I used to make these here,
Or, shop below, each will make one ghost.
PIPE INSULATION {CUT IN HALF TO 3′}
To make the wreath on my front door, see this post!
If you try this project, tag me on Instagram @mysweetsavannah—I love seeing your spins on these ideas! And if you’d rather skip the DIY, I’ve linked ready-made ghost kits [here] so you can get the look with one click.
