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DIY Paper Pumpkin
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I love designing paper into mini 3D pieces of art so I had a lot of fun designing these little paper pumpkins. This is a simple DIY Halloween project that also works well for Fall decor or a quick Thanksgiving project.
It’s also a versatile design – string them together to make a 3D garland, make a whole bunch in varying sizes for the center of your table or make just one or two for the windowsill. Make them in a mix of orange, cream and white papers, or you can even go glam and make them in shimmering glitter papers if that takes your fancy!
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The Prettiest Pumpkins!
I have the pattern ready for you in a PDF printable (three sizes) or an SVG cut file for those of you with personal cutting machines. Once the pattern is downloaded and the card stock is cut, my paper pumpkin is so simple to put together that even the little ones can have a go. I used a low temperature glue gun to assemble my paper pumpkin but if the kiddos are getting involved, you might want to use glue dots instead. For the pumpkin stems I used a square of kraft paper which I rolled up and glued onto the top of the pumpkin once I’d assembled it. You can even use recycle paper bags for the little stems. See the steps below for all of the details. Enjoy! ~ Lia
How to Make a Paper Pumpkin
- Cut all pieces according to the pattern instructions
- Score and fold the center piece that will support the shape of the pumpkin. Glue it together at the top
- Use glue to stick the center piece into the middle of the flat pumpkin shape
- Bring each piece of the paper pumpkin up to the top of the center piece and glue it in place
Full tutorial available for members to download below.
You will need:
• A stencil printout (download below)
• Tape or blue tack
• A scoop or spoon
• A poker or cocktail stick
• Small serrated knife
• Light-coloured pen or dry-wipe marker
1. On the top of your pumpkin, draw a five or six-sided shape around the stem. Using a knife carefully cut in at an angle towards the centre all the way around. This will stop your lid from falling in.
2. Remove the top and cut away the excess to create a neat lid with no soft flesh. Scoop out the contents. Remove all the stringy flesh and seeds to leave a hard wall behind.
There are two easy ways to apply a stencil to a pumpkin for carving. The first method is perfect for more detailed designs and involves less scissor cutting. The second is ideal for simpler designs and uses a bit more snipping.
Method A:
1. Cut away the excess paper around your design. Make 3 or 4 snips around the edges of the paper (not into the design) to help fit around its shape and tape to the pumpkin.
2. Using a poker, cocktail stick, or fork, trace around the design by poking holes through the paper.
3. Remove the stencil to reveal your design. You may want to use a light pen or dry-wipe marker to make the lines clearer to follow for carving.
Method B:
1. Cut away the excess paper around your design. Next, cut out the shaded area of your stencil and tape it to the pumpkin.
2. Using a light pen or wipeable marker, trace around the cut-out areas using the stencil. Remove your stencil and you should have an accurate drawing to follow.
3. Using a knife or cutter, carefully cut out your design and pop the shaded shapes out with your hands.
4. Check the cut-out areas are clear and cut away any loose bits.
Finally, place a candle inside, pop on the lid, and watch your masterpiece glow!
