DIY Pumpkin Patch
Looking beyond the familiar jack-o’-lantern
When you think of Halloween, you may think of costumes, candy and Charlie Brown, but it’s also the time of year when you get to dress up a pumpkin or two. Pumpkin decorating is one of the many highlights of this spooky holiday, but don’t worry if your carving skills aren’t something to brag about. There are still plenty of no-carve options (like even being able to reuse some of the pesky fall leaves around your yard) that are fun and festive. Here is a wide range of pumpkin decorating ideas for Halloween crafters of all levels and for everyone in your family to enjoy. Grab your scissors, markers, paint, scrapbook paper and glue, and give your pumpkin an entirely new look.
TEACHER’S PET – Crafting your pumpkin showpiece can be as easy as clapping erasers at recess. Spray a pumpkin with two coats of chalkboard paint and let dry. Draw your design with white or colored chalk.
SLEEPY HOLLOW – Don’t lose your head over carving. A permanent marker and top hat is all you need for a theatrical nod to the headless horseman.
PRESSING MATTER – Nothing pairs better with a pumpkin than fall leaves. Gather favorite shapes and colors and press for several days in a book to dry. Use decoupage medium and a brush to attach the leaves in a desired pattern. This multiseasonal design makes an attractive centerpiece from Halloween to Thanksgiving.
GIVE A HOOT – Capture an iconic Halloween owl with this paper craft project. Use scrapbooking paper in different shades and textures to create the face, body and wings. Attach them to the façade of the pumpkin with common pins. Easily remove and save your artwork to reuse from year to year.
FLOWER POWER – Bring out the botanist with a pumpkin turned Mumkin. Pierce holes in the skin of the pumpkin with an ice pick, then insert your choice of freshly cut chrysanthemum blossoms in each hole. Mist daily and replace blossoms as they fade.
ABSTRACT MINIMALISM – Channel your inner Jackson Pollock with two shades of washi tape wrapped around a pumpkin. The tape has a waxy self-adhesive that sticks easily, but it can also be removed if you suddenly crave pie. Find seasonal colors at the local craft store.
