The simplest supplies can make the party. The shivery, candy-fueled thrill of trick-or-treating lasts but an hour or two. Why not prolong the fun by inviting kids to a party? Little goblins can work together with grown-ups to make decorations, including papier-mache pumpkins and decoupage lanterns.

These easy crepe- and tissue-paper techniques can also be used to make spherical treat containers and even a pinata shaped like a wing-flapping bat. None of the projects here requires anything more than basic craft supplies. Set aside some time on an early-fall afternoon to create all, or just one, of the haunting ornaments. For a really special event, you can sew costumes with paper streamers and crepe paper. Soon your house will be transformed into the perfect venue for a monster celebration.

Papier-Mache Basics
Almost all the projects on these pages -- from tiny treat containers to a giant bat pinata -- begin with these two steps: Pasting layers of tissue paper onto balloons that serve as forms, and then letting them dry, hardening so they can be cut and embellished. The balloons vary in size from the large birthday-party variety to small ones sometimes sold as water balloons. A list of what you'll need to get started is below; additional necessary items are included with each project. Templates for treat-ball silhouettes and cat and bat faces can be downloaded and printed. When using black tissue paper, wear gloves and cover your work surface because the dye may run and stain.

Tools and Materials
Balloons
Jars
Craft glue
Colored tissue
Paper
Medium artist's paintbrush
Clothespins and clothesline
Small scissors
Pencil
Utility knife

Pasting
Begin by resting a balloon on an empty jar (this will prevent the damp tissue from discoloring or sticking to the work surface). Dab diluted craft glue (2 parts glue to 1 part water) on a small section of the balloon, and drape a strip of tissue paper from the balloon's crown to its knot. Using a paintbrush, apply more glue over the strip. Add another strip so it slightly overlaps the first, and brush on more glue. Continue around the balloon, layering tissue as desired (see individual project instructions for details) and leaving the knot exposed.

Drying
Using clothespins, hang the tissue-covered balloons from the clothesline by their knots; let dry completely (several hours or overnight). Pop each balloon by making a slit with scissors next to the knot. Remove balloon through hole around knot.