It looks as though the ghost has paused mid-play, swinging quietly under autumn trees with candy in hand.
The beads shimmer like moonlight on a breezy night, each strand catching light as it moves.
Instead of something scary, this embroidery feels tender and almost childlike, a reminder that even ghosts can enjoy simple pleasures.
When displayed, it brings a playful spirit into your home, as though your decor itself is whispering little Halloween stories.
Materials Needed
- 100-150 white, black, and purple bugle beads
- Seed beads in white, black, yellow, and orange (5 grams each)
- Brown seed beads (5 grams)
- Green beads for vine accents (optional, 10-15 pieces)
- Beading needle and strong thread
- Fabric backing (linen or canvas, 6”×6”)
- Embroidery hoop or small canvas
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Place your fabric in a hoop or stretch it over a small canvas. The mark the outline of the ghost and two parallel lines for the swing ropes.
Step 2: Bring your needle up through the fabric and stitch long bugle beads vertically to form dangling ghost strands. Keep layering rows until the body looks full and flowing.
Step 3: Add details with seed beads including two black eyes, a hint of shading with purple or gray, and a cluster of orange and yellow beads for a candy bucket.
Step 4: Then stitch the swing ropes using brown beads, attaching them to the ghost’s hands and seat. You can also add green beads along the ropes if you’d like leafy vines.
Step 5: Finish by outlining the swing seat with small brown beads, securing the ghost firmly in place. Finally, tie off all threads neatly at the back.
Tips:
For extra movement, let some strands of the ghost hang loosely rather than stitching every bead flat. This creates a flowing, lifelike effect when the light hits it.