An adult inflates the balloon to about three-quarters full so it is rounded but not rock-hard, then ties the neck. A slightly under-inflated balloon is easier to draw on and less likely to pop.

Hold the balloon neck-down. The rounded top becomes the ghost's head. Draw two large oval eyes in the upper centre of the balloon using the black marker, and if you like, a small open O mouth just below. Keep the features simple: fussy detail disappears at party distance.

Gather the six ribbon strips and tie them together at one end. Tie this bundle firmly around the balloon's knotted neck so the ribbons hang below the balloon like a flowing hem.

An adult runs each ribbon strip along the blade of the scissors in a quick, firm pull to curl it. Hold the ribbon against the scissor blade with your thumb, then pull the ribbon through in one smooth motion. One pull per strip is usually enough.

Hang the balloon at whatever height you want by tying a longer piece of plain ribbon to the neck and looping it over a hook, a curtain rail or a piece of twine strung across the room.