How to Make Cute DIY Ghost Coasters for Halloween
When I came up with the idea to make these ghost coasters, or what I like to call "ghosters," I had no experience combining polymer clay with resin, but I had seen lots of people on tiktok - make similar ones, but I wanted to make mine to look like they would be trapped inside the coasters.
When I was still in the planning stages, I brainstormed ways to achieve this with white yarn, but I didn't think it would have the same effect. I love the way this came out - these make such a fun party favour or quick gift!
Here’s a step-by-step instructions for how to make these cute ghost coasters!
Materials Needed:
Polymer Clay: white. I used Sculpey brand because it comes in a big block which is great for a variety of projects.
Resin: You do not need deep pour resin. I really liked this resin.
Coaster Molds (silicone molds in your desired shape - I used rectangles because I wanted them to be able to be stacked easily.
Acrylic roller: I like using acrylic because it doesn't stick to the clay and is easily able to be cleaned.
Cookie cutter shaped like a ghost
Level guides
Oven (for baking polymer clay)
Gloves (for handling resin)
Respirator
Mixing Cups and Sticks
Sandpaper (optional, for smoothing edges)
Steps:
Prepare the Polymer Clay:
When working with polymer clay, the first line of defense is to condition the clay. This means that you need to work and knead the clay with your hands or with a rolling pin until the clay feels like it can be pulled without breaking. When teaching kids, I tell them it should almost resemble pulling a fresh water taffy. If you pull and it crumbles, it will not work well. The best way to take your Sculpey clay to the next level is to not skimp on this step. Condition the polymer clay by kneading it until it’s soft and pliable.
Roll it out to your desired thickness (about 1/4 inch is ideal) using a rolling pin.
Cut Out Shapes:
Use a cutting tool or cookie cutter to cut out shapes for your coasters. You can make them round, square, or any shape you prefer.
Here, I cut out the shape of a ghost and then squished it a little to add movement.
If you want designs or patterns, you can layer different colors of clay.
Bake the Clay:
Preheat your oven according to the instructions on your polymer clay package (usually around 275°F or 135°C).
Place the clay shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for the recommended time (usually 15-30 minutes, depending on thickness).
Allow them to cool completely.
Prepare the Coaster Molds:
Add details to your clay before placing it in the mold
Once the polymer clay is cool, you can use it as a base in your silicone molds.
Add any additional details or designs to your clay. I painted the ghost face at this step.
Ensure the molds are clean and dry before use.
5. Mix the Resin:
Follow the instructions on your resin package. Generally, this involves mixing equal parts of resin and hardener in a mixing cup.
Stir thoroughly to avoid bubbles.
6. Pour the Resin:
Pour a thin layer of resin into the mold, filling it just enough to cover the bottom.
Carefully place your baked polymer clay shapes into the mold, pressing down slightly to ensure they are embedded.
Pour more resin over the clay until the mold is filled. Make sure the clay is fully submerged.
7. Remove Bubbles:
If any bubbles appear on the surface, you can gently torch them with a heat gun or blow on them to pop them.
8. Cure the Resin:
Let the resin cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 24-48 hours).
9. Demold and Finish:
Once fully cured, gently remove the coasters from the molds.
If needed, sand any rough edges for a smooth finish.
10. Enjoy Your Coasters:
Spooky resin ghost coasters!
Honestly, this project made me so happy! I love art that is both functional and fun. I guess these put the fun inside of functional. Literally! I love when my spooky loving friends come over for a game of canasta and can enjoy all of the handmade halloween decor in my living room.
I also love that next halloween I can pull it out again and again and celebrate the spooky season with fun and easy table decor. I love the end result and would love to know if you end up making these!
Tips:
Get creative with your ghosts
Experiment with different colors and patterns in your polymer clay.
Add glitter, dried flowers, or other embellishments to the resin for added decoration.
Always work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using resin.
Try other kinds of handmade ghosts - for example, try making a crochet ghost coaster. Who knows if it will work, but I love to experiment!
Have fun crafting your unique coasters!
Looking for more Halloween crafts? Don’t miss this Anthropologie ghost candle dupe!
