2 flat paintbrushes: one wide (2.5 cm) for the background, one fine (size 2) for detail
White texture paste or thick gesso, approx. 2 tablespoons
Iridescent fine glitter, 1 teaspoon
Mod Podge or PVA glue, 1 tablespoon
Fine paintbrush (size 0) for the eyes
Step by Step
Paint the entire front face of the wood slice in dusty rose acrylic, using the wide brush in even strokes. Allow to dry completely, about 30 minutes. The surface should feel dry to the touch and not tacky before you continue.
Using the fine brush and off-white paint, sketch a simple ghost shape in the centre: a rounded dome head narrowing slightly then widening into a wavy hem at the bottom third of the slice. It does not need to be perfect. Ghost shapes are forgiving.
Fill the ghost outline with a thick layer of texture paste using the fine brush, working in short strokes to build a slightly raised, textured surface. This is what gives the finished ghost its dimensional, almost sculptural look. Leave to dry for at least 45 minutes.
Once the paste is fully dry and matte, paint over it with a coat of off-white acrylic, keeping some of the texture visible through the paint. One coat is enough.
Mix the iridescent glitter into the Mod Podge and brush a thin layer over the pink background area only, avoiding the ghost. Scatter a few extra glitter flakes while the glue is wet, then leave to dry for 20 minutes.
Use the size-0 brush and black acrylic to paint two small oval eyes on the ghost's face. Two dots about 1.5 cm wide, positioned in the upper third of the head, centred slightly below the very top of the dome.
Good to Know
Ages 8+ with adult help for the craft knife step if shaping is needed.