Painting pumpkins is a fun and creative way to decorate for Halloween and fall. Here are some ideas and tips for painting pumpkins:
Supplies:
- Pumpkins (full-size or mini)
- Paint brushes (foam brushes work well)
- Acrylic paint (FolkArt Home Decor Chalk, Apple Barrel, FolkArt, multi-surface, tempera, or latex)
- Spray paint
- Acrylic sealer (spray or brush on)
- Painters tape
- Stencils
- Hot glue gun (optional)
- Glitter (optional)
Steps:
- Prepare your pumpkin by wiping it clean with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply a base sealer coat to the pumpkin using acrylic sealer. Work on one half of the pumpkin at a time and allow each half to dry before moving on to the next.
- Paint the pumpkin with acrylic paint, using multiple coats if necessary. You can use stencils or freehand painting to create designs.
- If desired, add glitter on top of painted designs for an easy way to make your pumpkin sparkle.
- Use painters tape to outline stripes or other designs on the pumpkin, then fill in the spaces with craft paint.
- For a textured look, use puff paint to draw a design on the pumpkin, then spray the pumpkin with matte spray paint or chalk paint.
- Add decorations such as bows or paper bats using a hot glue gun.
- Finish with a coat of acrylic sealer to protect the paint.
Tips:
- Choose pumpkins that are free of blemishes and soft spots.
- If you have time, put the pumpkin in a sunny windowsill for a week or two to cure.
- Use acrylic paint instead of oil-based paint for easy clean-up and quick drying.
- Work in layers, starting with a base coat of all-over color.
- Use spray paint for solid colors and decorative work.
- Mask off any areas you dont want painted when using spray paint.
With these ideas and tips, you can create unique and beautiful painted pumpkins to decorate your home for Halloween and fall.
