Transform inexpensive plastic pumpkins into stunning, rustic pieces that mimic the beauty of real heirloom pumpkins. With just a few basic materials like acrylic paint, baking soda, and a little creativity, you can create custom pumpkins that add a touch of vintage elegance to your fall decor.
Perfect for mantel displays, table centerpieces, or outdoor accents, these pumpkins are not only easy to make but also bring a cozy, handcrafted feel to your seasonal decorating.
Why You’ll Love This Project
- This project uses budget-friendly materials, like plastic pumpkins from the dollar store and basic acrylic paint, making it an affordable way to create cozy decor.
- You can choose your own color palette and textures to match your home’s aesthetic. Whether you prefer neutral tones or more vibrant hues, you have full creative control!
- The finished pumpkins are unique to you, with no two looking exactly alike. This personal touch adds character and charm to your home decor, making it feel more special and meaningful.
- By reusing plastic pumpkins and giving them a makeover, you’re upcycling items that might otherwise end up in a landfill. It’s an environmentally friendly way to decorate your home.
Materials
- Acrylic Paint (in your choice of heirloom colors)
- Plastic Dollar Store Pumpkins
- Baking Soda
- Paint BrushDirt/Sand
- Thick Stick (for pumpkin stem)
Styling Tips
Create a Vignette: Group the pumpkins together with other fall elements like candles, pinecones, and leaves on a tray or table. Layering different textures and heights creates a beautiful vignette that makes a statement.
Use Natural Elements: Complement the rustic look of your heirloom pumpkins by incorporating natural elements like dried wheat, acorns, or twigs. These earthy materials enhance the organic feel of your decor.
Vary the Heights: Display your pumpkins on different levels by placing them on books, cake stands, or wooden crates. This adds dimension to your arrangement and helps each pumpkin stand out.
Incorporate into a Centerpiece: Use the pumpkins as part of your dining table centerpiece. Surround them with eucalyptus garlands, candles, and seasonal flowers for a stunning, cohesive look.
How to Make These DIY Heirloom Pumpkins
Prepare Your Workspace Lay down some newspaper or a drop cloth to protect your workspace from paint. Gather all your materials, so they’re within easy reach.
Mix the Paint: In a small container, mix your acrylic paint with baking soda. The ratio should be about 1 part baking soda to 2 parts paint. The baking soda will give the paint a textured, matte finish that mimics the look of real heirloom pumpkins.
Paint the Pumpkins: Using a paintbrush, apply the baking soda and paint mixture to the plastic pumpkins. Start with a light coat, and allow it to dry completely before applying a second coat. The texture will help cover the plastic sheen of the pumpkins, giving them a more authentic look.
- If you want to create color variation, you can mix different shades of paint and blend them directly on the pumpkin for a more natural, aged appearance.
Create the Stem: While the paint is drying, prepare your stem by finding a thick stick that resembles a pumpkin stem. Trim it to the desired length. Use dirt or sand to rub and coat the stick, giving it a more rustic and aged look. This will make it resemble the real stem of an heirloom pumpkin.
Attach the Stem: Once the paint on your pumpkins is fully dry, remove the original plastic stem if possible. Apply a generous amount of hot glue to the top of the pumpkin where the stem would be. Press the thick stick into the glue, holding it in place until it’s secure. The dirt or sand you applied earlier will give the stem a more natural, textured look.
Optional Touches
- If desired, you can lightly brush some dirt or sand onto the painted pumpkin surface to give it an even more weathered, realistic appearance. Simply apply a small amount of dirt with your fingers or a dry brush, focusing on the crevices and base of the pumpkin.
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