Imagine pulling an old, forgotten book off the shelf, its pages slightly yellowed, whispering stories of the past. Now, you can absolutely bring those pages a second life.
With just a little creativity, each torn sheet can become a bat fluttering across your wall, a ghostly garland swaying in the breeze, or a haunting wreath greeting visitors at your door.
There’s something delightfully mysterious about blending vintage paper with the season’s spookiness, it feels like crafting with history itself.
These ideas aren’t just projects; they’re a way to wrap your home in charm, nostalgia, and a dash of Halloween magic.
#1. Folded Book Page Witch Doll
This whimsical witch doll is a charming mix of spooky and sweet, made entirely from an upcycled book. Her folded purple dress flows beautifully, and the sparkly hat and broomstick add a magical finishing touch. She’s perfect for adding a bit of playful Halloween spirit to a bookshelf or entry table.
Materials Needed
- Old paperback book (around 150-200 pages)
- Spray paint or acrylic paint (purple)
- Black felt
- Small wooden ball
- Green tinsel or yarn
- Small stick and twine
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Decorative gems or sequins
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the book cover and fold each page inward toward the spine to create a fan-like skirt. Continue until the book naturally forms a cone shape.
Step 2: Spray or paint the folded pages purple and let them dry completely.
Step 3: Glue a small wooden ball to the top for the head. You can also add green tinsel or yarn underneath for hair.
Step 4: Cut a cone and brim from black felt to make the witch hat, then decorate it with gems or sequins. Then secure it on the head with hot glue.
Step 5: Create a tiny broom using a stick and some twine or bristles, then glue it to her hands.
#2. Framed Book Page Ghost Art
If you love spooky season but prefer cute over creepy, this framed ghost trio will be right up your alley.
The ghosts are made from book pages, giving them a charming, vintage feel while still fitting perfectly with Halloween decor.
Also, this is an easy project to whip up in under an hour, and it’s the kind of decoration you’ll want to bring out year after year.
Materials Needed
- Old book pages (3-4 pages)
- Black picture frame (8×10 inches or similar)
- Black craft paper or paint
- Scissors
- Glue stick or craft glue
- Black marker
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the glass from your picture frame and paint the backing black, or cover it with black craft paper.
Step 2: Using an old book page, cut out ghost shapes, try making each one slightly different for personality.
Step 3: Draw simple round eyes and an open mouth on each ghost with a black marker.
Step 4: Arrange the ghosts on your black background until you’re happy with the layout, then glue them in place.
Step 5: Reassemble the frame without the glass for a textured look, and display it on a mantel, shelf, or wall.
#3. Book Page Jack-o’-Lantern
Wow, this cheerful jack-o’-lantern is proof that Halloween decor can be both spooky and cozy.
Made entirely from the folded pages of an old book, it’s the perfect upcycled project for anyone who loves crafting with what they already have at home.
The best part is that you don’t even need carving skills, just some paper, glue, and a bit of imagination.
Materials Needed
- Old paperback book (200-300 pages)
- Black craft paper
- Scissors
- Glue stick or craft glue
- Pencil
- Spanish moss or raffia (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the book cover so only the spine and pages remain.
Step 2: Fold each page in half vertically toward the spine. You keep going until every page is folded, this will give you a rounded pumpkin shape.
Step 3: Cut simple triangle eyes and a toothy smile from black craft paper.
Step 4: Glue the face pieces onto the front of your folded book pumpkin.
Step 5: For the curly tendrils, cut thin strips of black paper and wrap them around a pencil to create spirals. Then tuck or glue them into the top.
Step 6: Display your jack-o’-lantern on a shelf or mantel, adding Spanish moss around the base for extra charm.
#4. Book Page Witch Ghosts
If your Halloween décor needs a little magic, these book page witch ghosts are ready to fly in with their tiny brooms and pointy hats.
The way the folded pages fan out makes them look like they just floated out of an enchanted library. Each one can have its own personality, you change up the hat colors, add miniature pumpkins, or tuck in a feather for flair.
Plus, they’re light, quirky, and full of charm, making them perfect for mantels, shelves, or even as table centerpieces.
Materials Needed
- 1 old paperback book (150-200 pages)
- Small witch hats (about 3-4″ tall)
- Mini brooms (6-8″ long)
- Mini faux pumpkins (1-2″)
- Black paper or felt
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Fold each page of your book toward the spine to create a rounded, standing shape. This is the body of your ghost.
Step 2: Glue two small black ovals near the top for eyes.
Step 3: Attach a witch hat on top, then add a mini pumpkin or feather for a touch of personality.
Step 4: Finally, glue the broom to one side as if your ghost is ready to sweep through the night.
#5. Book Page Witch Hat
This playful witch hat looks like it jumped straight out of a Halloween storybook.
Specially, the folded book pages give it a charmingly textured look, while the glittery polka dots, bright orange trim, and spooky cutouts make it feel ready for a night of magical mischief.
It’s the kind of craft that makes you smile every time you walk by it and it’s surprisingly easy to put together once you get folding.
Materials Needed
- 1 old paperback book (150-200 pages)
- Black cardstock for base circle (approx. 10-12” diameter)
- Orange tissue paper or crepe paper for trim
- Glitter paper
- Halloween-themed cutouts (pumpkin, cat, star, etc.)
- Hot glue gun
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the book cover and fold each page in half toward the spine, creating a cone shape as you work through the book.
Step 2: Place the finished cone on a circle of black cardstock to form the hat’s brim, and glue in place.
Step 3: Add orange tissue or crepe paper around the brim for a cheerful pop of color.
Step 4: Cut out glittery circles and glue them randomly on the hat for a whimsical touch.
Step 5: Finish with Halloween cutouts along the base and a little paper pom-pom at the top.
Tip: If your cone feels wobbly, slip a bit of cardboard inside the pages for extra support before decorating.
#6. Book Page Decoupage Pumpkin
If you love the cozy mix of vintage charm and autumn warmth, this decoupage pumpkin is perfect for you.
The soft text from old book pages wraps the pumpkin like a delicate script, giving it a timeless look that works for both Halloween and Thanksgiving.
It’s simple to make, yet looks like something you’d find in a boutique. You place it on a stack of books, in a wooden tray, or as part of your centerpiece for a rustic, storybook vibe.
Materials Needed
- 1 faux pumpkin (8″-10″ works best)
- Old book pages (about 10-12)
- Matte Mod Podge or diluted white glue
- Foam brush
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Tear your book pages into smaller strips. Irregular edges give a more natural, layered look.
Step 2: Apply a thin coat of Mod Podge to the pumpkin, press a strip of paper on, and smooth it down with your fingers.
Step 3: Keep adding strips, slightly overlapping them, until the pumpkin is completely covered.
Step 4: Brush a final layer of Mod Podge over the entire pumpkin to seal it. Let it dry completely.
Step 5: Now you can style it with other pumpkins, candles, or seasonal greenery for a cozy autumn display.
#7. Book Page Halloween Treat Bags
These charming treat bags turn old book pages into something magical for Halloween night. With their vintage-style printed paper and playful Halloween tags, they’re perfect for handing out candy, small gifts, or party favors.
Bonus, the mix of rustic twine and festive cutouts adds a handmade touch that feels warm and personal.
You’ll love how quickly these come together and your guests will adore them even more.
Materials Needed
- 2-3 old book pages per bag
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Scissors or decorative edge scissors
- Twine or ribbon (12″ per bag)
- Halloween-themed tags or cutouts (about 2″-3″ in size)
- Treats or small gifts to fill
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Lay two book pages side by side, slightly overlapping them, and glue or tape along the seam.
Step 2: Fold the bottom up about 1 inch and glue it down to form the base of the bag.
Step 3: Roll the pages into a tube and glue the side edges together.
Step 4: Fill the bag with treats, then pinch the top closed. Then use a hole punch if you’d like to thread the twine through, or simply tie it around.
Step 5: Finally, attach your Halloween tag for a festive finish.
#8. Jack-o’-Lantern Book Page Hoop Art
If you love Halloween but want something more whimsical than frightening, this jack-o’-lantern hoop art will be your perfect fit.
The contrast of vintage book pages with bold black pumpkin faces feels like a little nod to classic Halloween storytelling.
Moreover, you can hang them in a row on your wall, lean them on a mantel, or even cluster them with other autumn decorations. The texture of the paper and the embroidery hoop frame give it a cozy, handmade charm.
Materials Needed
- 3 wooden embroidery hoops (8″, 7″, and 6″)
- Old book pages (large enough to cover each hoop)
- Black acrylic paint (2-3 oz)
- 3 pumpkin face stencils (different designs)
- Foam brush or sponge
- Hot glue gun (optional)
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Start by loosening each embroidery hoop and placing a book page in the middle. Then pull it snug so there are no wrinkles, then trim away the extra paper around the edges.
Step 2: Next, lay your stencil on top. Hold it steady, this is where the magic starts.
Step 3: Using a foam brush, gently dab black paint over the stencil. Light, even taps work best to keep the lines crisp.
Step 4: Once the paint is fully dry, pop the hoops closed and get them ready to display. They look especially charming grouped together on a wall or shelf.
Tip: If you want a vintage feel, lightly sand over the painted areas once they’re dry for a soft, worn look.
#9. Folded Book Page Ghost with Scarf
If you’ve ever wanted a Halloween decoration that’s both charming and eco-friendly, this folded book ghost will win your heart.
The pages fan out in a perfect 360° shape, creating a round, friendly ghost that looks like it stepped straight out of a storybook.
Soft felt eyes and a nose give it personality, while a playful scarf, complete with a “BOO” tag, ties the whole look together. It’s the kind of craft that makes guests smile and sparks conversations about creative reuse.
Materials Needed
- 1 paperback book (150-200 pages)
- 3 small black felt circles (about 1″ each)
- 1 strip of orange ribbon (18-20″)
- 1 strip of decorative fabric or twill tape with “BOO” printed (8-10″)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the book cover, then fold each page inward at the top and bottom to create a pointed edge. You continue until all pages form a rounded base.
Step 2: Repeat folding with a smaller book section for the ghost’s head, then glue it on top.
Step 3: Attach felt eyes and nose to the head.
Step 4: Now you can wrap the scarf around the neck and secure with glue or a knot.
#10. Silhouette Owl and Cat Wall Art
These framed book page silhouettes are a simple yet striking way to add a hint of Halloween mystery to your walls.
The black owl and cat shapes pop beautifully against the text background, and the satin ribbon makes them feel polished and elegant.
Specially, you hang them in a hallway or on your front door to give guests a little spooky welcome.
Materials Needed
- Two oval embroidery hoops (or small frames)
- Old book pages
- Black felt or cardstock
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
- Black satin ribbon
- Owl and cat silhouette templates
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut out a piece of book page to fit snugly inside your embroidery hoop or frame, then secure it in place.
Step 2: Using your templates, trace and cut out the owl and cat shapes from black felt or cardstock.
Step 3: Glue the silhouettes to the center of the book page background.
Step 4: Tie a long satin ribbon into a bow and attach it to the top of each hoop for hanging.
Step 5: Display them together for a charming, coordinated Halloween look.
#11. Book Page Witch Silhouette Sign
This charming witch silhouette sign has a rustic, handmade feel that fits perfectly with cozy Halloween décor.
The layered book page cutouts give it personality, while the oversized bow adds a playful touch. It’s an easy project that makes a big visual impact, especially when hung above a mantel or in an entryway.
Materials Needed
- Wood board (size of your choice)
- Old book pages
- Witch silhouette template
- Scissors
- Mod Podge or craft glue
- Foam brush
- Jute twine and wooden beads
- Hot glue gun
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Stain or paint your wooden board and let it dry completely.
Step 2: Trace the witch silhouette onto book pages, then cut out each piece. For a layered effect, slightly overlap pages when gluing.
Step 3: Use Mod Podge to attach the book page pieces onto the board, smoothing out any wrinkles as you go.
Step 4: Thread wooden beads onto jute twine, then attach it to the back of the board for hanging.
Step 5: Make a large bow from book pages and hot glue it to the top for a fun, whimsical finish.
Refer to: 22 Wickedly Fun DIY Witch Crafts to Enchant Your Halloween
#12. Book Page Raven and Skull Display
This hauntingly elegant display feels like it came straight from the pages of Edgar Allan Poe.
Bonus, a decoupaged skull wrapped in the words of “The Raven” becomes the perfect perch for a glittery black bird, creating a moody focal point for your Halloween decor.
It’s literary, spooky, and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a mantel, bookshelf, or Halloween party centerpiece.
Materials Needed
- Plastic or papier-mâché skull (life-size)
- Plastic bird or raven (about 6-8 inches long)
- Old book pages (preferably from a mystery or gothic novel)
- Mod Podge or decoupage glue (4-6 oz)
- Small paintbrush
- Black glitter (optional)
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
- Scrap ribbon or paper
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Tear book pages into smaller strips. For a more vintage look, lightly distress the edges with tea or coffee before drying.
Step 2: Brush Mod Podge onto the skull in small sections and press the strips of book paper down, smoothing them with your fingers to avoid wrinkles. Then cover the entire surface and let dry.
Step 3: If you’d like your raven to sparkle, coat it with Mod Podge and sprinkle black glitter over the surface. Let it dry fully.
Step 4: Create a tiny paper “quote” banner with a line from Poe’s work, and glue it gently into the raven’s beak.
Step 5: Use hot glue to attach the raven securely to the top of the skull.
Step 6: Display on a shelf or mantel surrounded by old books for the full gothic library vibe.
#13. Rolled Book Page Pumpkin
Amazingly, this pumpkin is pure upcycled charm, no carving, no mess, just a bundle of rolled book pages tied together with rustic twine.
The speckled orange paint gives it that harvest glow, and the twisted paper stem with a green ribbon bow adds a playful, finished touch.
It’s the kind of project you can make while sipping hot cider, and it looks just as good on a mantel as it does in a cozy reading nook.
Materials Needed
- 8-10 loose book pages (8″-10″ tall)
- Orange craft paint (optional: speckle with brown or gold)
- Foam brush or sponge
- Hot glue gun
- Brown paper
- Green ribbon
- Rustic twine
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Tear out several book pages and lightly paint them orange, adding a few speckles for texture. Let them dry completely.
Step 2: Roll each page into a tube and secure the end with hot glue.
Step 3: Arrange the rolls in a circle, gluing them side-by-side until you have a pumpkin shape. Then wrap twine around the middle to hold everything snug.
Step 4: Twist a piece of brown paper into a stem, glue it to the top center, and finish with a green ribbon bow.
#14. Halloween Book Page Ghost Garland
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a handmade garland, and this one feels like it came straight from a cozy autumn afternoon.
Each ghost is cut from the pages of an old book, giving them a soft vintage charm. Strung together with twine and clipped with mini clothespins, they sway gently with every breeze.
See also: 5 Steps to Create Your Own Spooky Book Page Ghost Garland
#15. Book Page Witch Wreath
This Halloween wreath is proof that old book pages can be completely enchanting. The layered petals give it a full, dimensional look, while the witch silhouette in the center adds just the right amount of spooky charm.
Plus, hang it on your front door, and you’ll have neighbors asking where you bought it, only to be surprised when you tell them it’s handmade.
Materials Needed
- Old book pages (about 70-90 pages)
- 12-inch cardboard wreath base
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Black and orange craft paper
- Witch silhouette cutout (or printed design)
- Ribbon for hanging
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut your book pages into squares (about 5×5 inches). Roll each square into a cone and glue the edge to hold its shape.
Step 2: Starting from the outer edge of your wreath base, glue down cones with the points facing inward. You can work your way around the circle, slightly overlapping each cone.
Step 3: Continue layering cones inward until you reach the center.
Step 4: Create a small rosette with black paper, glue an orange circle in the middle, and place your witch silhouette on top.
Step 5: Attach the rosette to the center of your wreath, add a ribbon loop at the top, and hang it where it can show off its Halloween flair.
#16. Book Page Pumpkin with Rustic Stem
There’s something heartwarming about turning an old, worn-out book into a cozy autumn pumpkin.
This one is full of rustic charm, with soft, fanned-out pages edged in warm orange and topped with a twig stem and dainty fall accents. It looks like it’s been plucked straight from a vintage farmhouse porch.
Set it on your table, mantle, or bookshelf and it instantly adds that handmade, welcoming feel that makes fall so special.
Materials Needed
- 1 old paperback book (150-200 pages)
- Orange craft paint or ink
- Small twig or stick (about 3-4″ long)
- Artificial berries or mini floral pick
- Small faux flower
- Hot glue gun
- Scissors or craft knife
- Pencil
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the book cover, then draw a half-pumpkin shape along the open edge. Then cut through the pages a few at a time, this is the slow but satisfying part.
Step 2: Fan the pages around until they form a full circle. If needed, glue the first and last page together for a solid base.
Step 3: Lightly brush or sponge the edges with orange paint, letting some of the natural paper peek through for a weathered look.
Step 4: Glue the twig in the center for the stem, then tuck in a few berries and top with a faux flower.
#17. Book Page Ghosts on an Open Book Display
This project feels like a spooky little story that’s come to life right off the page. Two cut-out ghosts, made from the very words of an old book, rise up as if they’ve just escaped the plot.
The open book serves as the stage, while a bare, decorative tree in the background adds to the haunted yet whimsical scene. It’s a perfect conversation starter for a coffee table or bookshelf in October.
Materials Needed
- 1 hardcover book (old or thrifted)
- Extra book pages
- Ghost-shaped template (about 4-5″ tall)
- Sharp scissors or craft knife
- Glue or double-sided tape
- Optional: small decorative tree or Halloween accents
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Open your book to the center so it lays flat. Then trace and cut two ghost shapes from spare book pages.
Step 2: Attach the ghosts upright to the open pages using small folds at the bottom for stability.
Step 3: Finally, add a spooky backdrop like a twig tree or tiny pumpkins for extra charm.
#18. Vintage Halloween Book Page Rosette Ornaments
If you’re drawn to the charm of old books and the cozy glow of vintage Halloween decor, these rosette ornaments will feel like a little bit of magic in your hands.
The folded pages fan out like paper sunbursts, each one framing a nostalgic image of black cats, glowing pumpkins, or whimsical witches.
They’re light enough to hang anywhere on a mantel, strung along a doorway, or even on a spooky Halloween tree. And the best part iss that you’re giving forgotten book pages a second life in the most festive way.
Materials Needed
- 2-3 old book pages for each rosette
- Vintage Halloween images (about 2.5-3″ wide)
- Black or orange cardstock for backing
- Glue gun
- Circle punch or scissors
- 6-8″ of twine or ribbon
- Hole punch
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Start by folding each page accordion-style, making neat little pleats about half an inch wide. It’s a bit like making a paper fan, you’ll get into a nice rhythm.
Step 2: Glue the ends of your folded pages together so they form a complete circle. You should give it a gentle press so it lays flat like a rosette.
Step 3: Cut out your vintage images and glue them onto cardstock for a sturdier center.
Step 4: Attach the decorated circle right in the middle of your rosette, letting the book pages peek out all around.
Step 5: Punch a small hole at the top, thread through your twine, and tie a knot. Now they’re ready to hang!
#19. Book Page Candy Corn Cones
Here’s a sweet twist on Halloween décor that won’t melt in your hands, candy corn made entirely from folded book pages.
The layered colors instantly say “October,” and the cone shape feels playful yet rustic.
Set them in clusters on a table or line them up along a mantel for a cheerful, candy-inspired display that nods to autumn nostalgia without any sugar rush.
Materials Needed
- 1 old paperback book (150-200 pages)
- Acrylic paint in white, orange, and yellow
- Medium paintbrush
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Scissors
- Scrap paper or newspaper
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Fold each page of your book in toward the spine to create a cone shape. Keep folding until the book forms a full standing cone.
Step 2: Starting from the top, paint the tip white, the middle orange, and the bottom yellow, just like real candy corn.
Step 3: Let each color dry before moving to the next for crisp edges.
#20. Book Page Raven Wall Art
There’s something wonderfully mysterious about ravens, especially when paired with the warm, aged look of vintage book pages.
This project captures that moody elegance and turns it into wall décor you can enjoy long after Halloween. The silhouettes almost seem to whisper stories from the pages behind them, making this a perfect piece for a reading nook or entryway.
Plus, it’s lightweight, so you can hang it anywhere for an instant touch of gothic charm.
Materials Needed
- 2 small glass photo frames (5″×7″)
- Old book pages (trimmed to fit frames)
- Black cardstock or matte black paint (2-3 oz)
- Raven silhouette template
- Glue stick or spray adhesive
- Scissors
- Picture hanging hooks
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the glass from your frames and clean them so the pages will show clearly.
Step 2: Trim your book pages to fit perfectly inside the frames.
Step 3: Trace the raven silhouettes onto black cardstock and cut them out carefully.
Step 4: Lightly glue each silhouette onto the center of a book page, then place the page back into the frame.
Step 5: Hang them side by side for a balanced look, or stagger them for a more casual, whimsical display.
#21. Folded Book Page Bat Ornament
This adorable folded book bat brings a playful (and slightly spooky) vibe to your Halloween decorations. Its plump, layered body is made entirely from book pages, while black paper wings and ears give it that unmistakable batty charm.
Bonus, this project is perfect for hanging from a Halloween tree, in a window, or even as part of a mantel display.
Materials Needed
- Old paperback book (about 100-150 pages)
- Black cardstock or construction paper
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Jute twine
- Pencil
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the book cover and fold each page inward toward the spine so the edges meet in the center. You should keep folding until you’ve worked through the whole book, this will give the bat its rounded shape.
Step 2: Pinch the middle of the folded book to create a head and body shape. Then secure with a bit of hot glue so it holds its form.
Step 3: Draw and cut out bat wings and small triangular ears from black cardstock.
Step 4: Glue the ears to the top and wings to each side of the body.
Step 5: Finally, attach a loop of jute twine to the top so you can hang your bat anywhere.
#22. Rolled Book Page Halloween Wreath
Look at this hauntingly beautiful wreath! It is made from rolled vintage book pages, giving it a rustic, aged charm perfect for Halloween.
Twine-tied scrolls create a full, textured look, while creepy-crawly spiders and a perched black crow add just the right amount of spooky drama.
You can hang it on your front door to greet trick-or-treaters or use it indoors for a mysterious vintage vibe.
Materials Needed
- Old book pages (about 60-80)
- Grapevine or wire wreath base (14-18 inches)
- Twine or jute string
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Plastic spiders and a faux black crow
- Optional: Tea or coffee
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: If you want a more aged look, dip the book pages in tea or coffee, let them dry completely, and lightly crumple for texture.
Step 2: Roll each page into a scroll and tie with twine to keep them secure.
Step 3: Attach the scrolls one by one to the wreath base using hot glue, layering them until the base is completely covered.
Step 4: Glue a small branch across the center, then perch your faux crow on it. Add plastic spiders for an extra creepy effect.
Read more: 31 Crafty Ways to Upcycle Your Old Page Books Into High-end Projects
