Is there anything better than when pumpkin season finally arrives? And if you're as excited as we are about getting cracking on pumpkin crafts, you might want to try something new in addition to your usual carved jack-o'-lanterns (which, might we add, are quite messy). It turns out that traditional carving is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to cute pumpkin designs.
This year, grab a paintbrush and get ready to think outside the box with our best pumpkin painting ideas. Painting counts as easy, no-carve pumpkin decorating ideas too. Whether you're hoping to upgrade your fall porch décor, decorate for an upcoming Halloween party, make a pumpkin centerpiece, or simply partake in a creative Halloween craft to get in the spirit of the season, you'll find something here that fits the bill. Watch Ree's beloved floral patterns come to life on a series of sophisticated-looking pumpkins, or opt for something guaranteed to make you smile, like a pumpkin painted to look like an ice cream cone or sprinkle doughnut. There's plenty of pumpkin faces as well!
Transform a traditional orange pumpkin with some stencils or go for black or white pumpkin décor ideas for a more modern twist. You can use real or faux pumpkins with most of these ideas, too, since you don't have to worry about slicing into them. And whatever you choose, remember you can't go wrong if you're having fun. Besides, your pumpkin carving kit deserves a night off!
1
Brushstroke Pumpkin
Trust us, there's no artistry required to recreate these pretty pumpkins. All you need is a paintbrush and acrylic paint to adorn your picks with abstract brushstroke designs.
Get the tutorial at The Merrythought.
2
Matte Metallic Pumpkin
The best part of these pumpkins is you can make them in October then leave them up through the season! Just be sure to use faux pumpkins if you're doing that. Either way, the bronze leaf and "hello pumpkin" design is just gourd-geous!
Get the tutorial at Lemon Thistle.
3
Black Cat Pumpkin
How purr-fect are these pumpkins? There's a variety of black cat-inspired designs to choose from, including a chalkboard painted pumpkin with a drawn chalk face and a pumpkin that utilizes paint pens!
Get the tutorial at The Crazy Craft Lady.
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4
Blue & White Chinoiserie Pumpkin
Who says your Halloween décor can't be classy? Elevate your home this autumn with chinoiserie pumpkins. Stick with this blue and white color combination or choose your own!
Get the tutorial at Polkadot Chair.
5
Confetti Dipped Pumpkin
It's a pumpkin party! To get this fun effect, paint your gourds to your heart's desire, brush on some Mod Podge, then dip them in confetti!
Get the tutorial at Studio DIY!.
6
Folk Art Pumpkin
Though this blogger actually used adhesive craft vinyl to give faux pumpkins this whimsical look, you can also try your hand at copying it with a brush and paint.
Get the tutorial at The Craft Patch.
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7
Burger Pumpkin
This pumpkin almost looks good enough to eat... almost. Once it's painted to look like a burger, sprinkle some sesame seeds, then use a hot glue gun and crepe paper for the toppings. Order up!
Get the tutorial at Studio DIY!.
8
Painted Floral Band Pumpkin
Use painter's tape to outline one thick horizontal stripe or multiple vertical stripes on your pumpkin. Next, tape floral stencils to those areas, and use craft paint to fill in the spaces.
9
Painted Floral Monogram Pumpkin
A monogrammed gourd has so many uses: You can spell out the first initials of your family members, display your house number, or even write a short word, like "BOO!" To get started, you'll need some painter's tape, flower stencils, a foam pouncer, and craft paint. Draw thick block letters on each pumpkin, then outline each with painter's tape. Next, tape the stencils inside the letters and use your pouncer to dab paint on top. Let dry, then remove the tape to unveil your masterpiece.
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10
Painted Botanical Pumpkin
Floral prints look great on pretty much everything—including fall pumpkins! Utilize craft paint and a few leaf-and-flower stencils to recreate one of these gorgeous, nature-inspired pumpkins. Just tape your stencils to an all-white pumpkin, grab a paintbrush, and dab on the paint.
11
Painted Floral Pumpkin
For this fun idea, you'll want to think of your pumpkin as a blank canvas. Paint flowers freehand, continuing the pattern on a few different gourds for a cohesive design.
12
Painted Ombré Flower Pumpkin
Create these ombré pumpkins using one large flower stencil and some craft paint. Dab the lightest paint on the center of the flower using a foam pouncer, then gradually darken the hues as you move toward the outer edge of the stencil, blending as you go.
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13
Painted Colorful Vine Pumpkin
It's nice to have a variety of stencils on hand as you begin this colorful craft. Start by painting one long, looping vine all around the pumpkin. Next, use the stencils to extend the design outwards with flowers and leaves.
14
Abstract Faces Painted Pumpkins
Forgo traditional Halloween decor and try one of these modern designs instead.
Get the tutorial at The House That Lars Built.
15
Painted Ice Cream Cone Pumpkin
Showcase your favorite ice cream flavor in pumpkin form with these DIY scoops. Mint chocolate chip, pictured here, is just one idea!
Get the tutorial at Sugar and Charm.
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16
Vintage Trailer Pumpkin
You might just want to keep this vintage-inspired pink trailer pumpkin around all year long. Even Barbie would want to live in there!
Get the tutorial at Club Crafted.
17
Mini Painted Pumpkin Unicorns
These unicorn pumpkins will delight little kids! A flower corn and horn add even more whimsy.
Get the tutorial at Posh Little Designs.
18
Rainbow Walkway Painted Pumpkins
What's better than a pumpkin-covered front porch? A rainbow pumpkin-covered porch. The technicolor twist makes it that much more magical.
Get the tutorial at The House That Lars Built.
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19
Ombre Paint Drip Pumpkins
Though we might love the combination of black and orange, sometimes that feels overdone. Try different shades of purple instead! First paint pumpkins bronze for a shimmery base and then drip purple and white for contrast over the top for a unique look.
Get the tutorial at Mad in Crafts.
20
Faux Concrete Pumpkin
How fun is this faux pumpkin? All you need is a stone spray paint to create a concrete texture. Not only will the color stand out but so will the technique.
Get the tutorial at Average But Inspired.
Micaela Bahn
Micaela Bahn is a freelance editorial assistant and recent graduate from Carleton College, where she majored in English literature. She loves running, photography, and cooking the best new recipes.
