20 Creative DIY Pumpkin Crafts for Fall and Halloween
Autumn has a magic all its own, and nothing captures that cozy, festive feeling like pumpkins. Their warm tones and rustic charm instantly bring a seasonal touch to your home, whether you re decorating for Halloween or simply embracing fall.
Instead of sticking with the same store-bought decorations, try making your own pumpkin-inspired crafts this year. You ll find plenty of fun ideas here, with projects simple enough for kids and creative designs that adults will enjoy too.
With a little imagination, everyday materials like fabric, wood, paper, or even cement can be transformed into beautiful pumpkins.
Gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and let these DIY pumpkin crafts inspire you to fill your home with handmade fall cheer.
#1 Book Pumpkins
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By cutting the pages into rounded shapes, fanning them out, and painting them with a warm orange shade, you ll create a rustic pumpkin that looks like it came straight from a storybook. A simple twig or piece of cork can serve as the stem, and you can even twist wire or add a faux leaf for extra charm.
To make one yourself, start by trimming a paperback into a pumpkin outline, then glue the spine so the pages stay open in a full circle.
Lightly spray or brush the edges with orange paint for a natural effect. Display it on your mantel or table for a cozy, literary touch to your fall décor.
#2 Rustic Harvest Mason Jar Fall Decor
These playful pumpkins are made from something you probably already have in your recycling bin: mason jar lids. By painting the lids in warm autumn shades like orange or mustard yellow and arranging them in a circle, you can quickly craft a cheerful pumpkin shape.
A small piece of wood or cork works beautifully as the stem, and adding a twine bow or faux leaves gives it a finished, rustic touch. To create your own, just hot glue the painted lids together, secure the stem on top, and tie it all off with ribbon or raffia.
The best part is you can make them in different colors and sizes to fit your fall display. They look especially charming on a mantel, by the fireplace, or as a centerpiece on your dining table.
#3 Silver Tray Pumpkin
This pumpkin craft is a clever way to upcycle old silver or metal trays into seasonal art. By painting three trays in shades of orange and arranging them side by side, you instantly get the round, plump shape of a pumpkin.
The stem is made from wrapped rope, adding a rustic farmhouse vibe, while a big decorative bow and faux leaves finish it off beautifully.
To recreate this look, lightly sand and paint your trays, then hot glue them together before attaching the rope and bow on top.
The layered brush strokes give the pumpkin depth and texture, making it look extra charming. Hang it on your wall, lean it on your mantel, or place it on a buffet table for a warm fall accent.
#4 Fabric Pumpkin Craft
Soft, cozy, and completely charming, this fabric pumpkin brings a handmade touch to your fall setup. Strips of fabric are wrapped and tucked around a round base, giving it a textured look that feels warm and inviting.
A bundle of cinnamon sticks serves as the stem, adding a natural detail and a subtle seasonal scent. You can make your own by covering a foam ball or even a balled-up bag of stuffing with fabric strips, then hot-gluing them in place.
Adding faux leaves and a small tag like âPumpkin Patchâ gives it that extra dose of personality. This project is perfect for using scrap fabric and looks beautiful on tables, shelves, or centerpieces.
#5 Paper Pumpkins
These paper pumpkins are lightweight, colorful, and so fun to create. Each one is made by cutting strips of patterned paper, then fanning them out into a round shape and securing the ends with brads or glue.
The result is a hollow pumpkin that looks modern yet playful, perfect for displaying in a group. Add small paper leaves and curly twine for a whimsical finish.
You can use any paper you like, solid, polka dots, or even metallic prints to match your fall theme. This craft is easy enough for kids yet stylish enough to decorate mantels, bookshelves, or your holiday table.
#6 A Grapevine Pumpkin
This grapevine pumpkin captures the rustic charm of fall with its natural, earthy look. Twisted grapevines are shaped into a round form, creating a textured pumpkin that feels both simple and elegant.
A short piece of wood serves as the stem, adding to its woodland appeal. To make one, you just wrap grapevine wreaths or loose vines around each other until you get the right fullness.
The beauty of this project is in its imperfections, as the wild strands give it character. Place it on a burlap runner or next to real pumpkins for a cozy autumn display.
#7 Rope Pumpkin Centerpiece
This rope pumpkin centerpiece is a charming way to bring farmhouse warmth into your fall decor. Thick strands of natural rope are coiled and tied to form a round pumpkin shape, giving it a rustic, handmade feel.
You can hot glue the rope around a simple base, like a foam ball or even a crumpled paper core, to hold the shape. A stick or cinnamon stick makes the perfect stem, and you can finish it off with raffia or a bow.
The texture of the rope adds depth and coziness that works beautifully on a dining table or mantel. It s a simple yet eye-catching project that instantly says autumn.
#8 DIY Pallet Pumpkin
Pallet pumpkins are a fantastic way to turn scrap wood into festive porch decor. These flat pumpkins are cut from pallet boards, painted in shades of orange, and sanded lightly for a rustic, weathered finish.
You can add playful touches like polka dots, stripes, or simple hand-painted vines to give each one its own character. To make them, cut boards into pumpkin shapes, attach them with wood glue or nails, and add small blocks of wood as stems.
A bit of ribbon or raffia tied around the top completes the look. Set them by your entryway, and they ll bring a cozy farmhouse welcome to your fall season.
#9 Cutting Board Pumpkin
Give that old cutting board a new life by transforming it into a whimsical pumpkin. A coat of white or orange paint instantly changes its look, and a few brush strokes of brown add rustic character.
Draw or stencil on a jack-o -lantern face for a playful touch, or keep it plain if you prefer something simple. Sand lightly around the edges to create a distressed farmhouse style.
The handle works perfectly as the pumpkin stem, and you can tie a bit of ribbon, raffia, or twine around it for extra charm. Prop it up on your kitchen counter or hang it on the wall for a cozy fall vibe.
#10 DIY Cement Pumpkin
These cement pumpkins are a stunning way to bring modern elegance to your fall porch. Painted in a chic gray tone, they offer a refreshing twist on the usual orange pumpkin look.
The carved-out maple leaf shape adds seasonal charm, turning them into little lanterns that glow beautifully at night. Simply place a battery-operated candle inside, and you ll have a cozy light that feels both rustic and sophisticated.
Scatter a few faux autumn leaves around the base for extra color and texture. This project is sturdy enough to last year after year, making it a perfect addition to your seasonal decor.
#11 Book Page Pumpkin Patch
Tiny book page pumpkins like these bring a whimsical touch to any fall display. Their delicate layers of vintage sheet music and printed pages create a cozy, nostalgic feel that s perfect for autumn decorating.
You can cut and fold old paper into pumpkin shapes, then secure them with glue to form a rounded design. Adding a bead or twig stem on top makes them feel finished and charming.
These look lovely displayed on a spool of twine, a tiered tray, or tucked among other fall décor. They re lightweight, easy to make, and a great way to upcycle paper you already have at home.
#12 Mason Jar Lid Pumpkins
This craft is a perfect example of turning everyday items into something festive. By painting mason jar lids a bold orange and arranging them in a circle, you can create a pumpkin shape that looks both rustic and modern.
Slip a bundle of cinnamon sticks in the center to mimic a stem while also adding a subtle autumn scent. You can tie raffia, twine, or ribbon around the top for extra charm.
These pumpkins look great on a dining table, kitchen counter, or even as part of your porch décor. They re quick to assemble and make use of simple supplies you probably already have at home.
#13 DIY Cardboard Pumpkin
This pumpkin shows just how magical cardboard can be when repurposed creatively. Layers of rolled cardboard painted orange give it a rustic spiral look that feels both textured and eye-catching.
The twisted paper stem and leafy details bring it to life with just a few extra touches. You can make one by cutting long strips of cardboard, rolling them tightly, and securing them with glue.
Once you ve shaped it, add paint and craft paper for leaves to complete the design. It s sturdy enough to use as a centerpiece or porch decoration, and it makes a great eco-friendly project for fall.
#14 Seasonal Pumpkin Floral Arrangements
These floral pumpkins are the perfect mix of elegance and whimsy for autumn. Instead of carving, you use vibrant blooms like chrysanthemums or daisies to shape your pumpkins.
The natural colors, bright yellow, golden orange, or even fresh green, bring a pop of cheer to your entryway or dining table. To make one, gather floral foam balls, insert flower stems until fully covered, and finish with a twig stem tied with raffia.
The result is a seasonal arrangement that looks festive and smells wonderful. You can play with different flower varieties to match your color scheme or event theme.
#15 Splatter Screen Pumpkin
Here s a clever way to turn ordinary kitchen items into a beautiful fall statement piece. This pumpkin is crafted using round splatter screens, tied together to form a perfect pumpkin shape.
A rustic rope stem wrapped at the top adds a farmhouse touch, while plaid bows, burlap, and faux sunflowers bring warmth and texture.
You can paint the screens in autumn shades, stencil words like âThankful,â and embellish them with seasonal accents for a personal flair.
Hang it on your front door as a wreath or display it on your mantel for cozy fall vibes. It s budget-friendly, unique, and surprisingly easy to put together.
#16 Wood Slice Pumpkins
These wood slice pumpkins are a perfect blend of rustic charm and playful creativity. By painting round wood slices a bright orange, you instantly get that autumn look without carving a real pumpkin.
Small twigs make easy stems, while green fabric or burlap leaves add a pop of texture. A simple twine bow tied at the top finishes them off in a farmhouse style.
You can group several together on a shelf, tiered tray, or even use them as place settings for a cozy fall dinner. They re quick to make, budget-friendly, and bring a warm, handmade touch to your seasonal décor.
#17 Pallet Pumpkins
Pallet pumpkins are a fun way to upcycle small wooden slats into seasonal décor. These mini creations bring a rustic farmhouse feel, perfect for your entryway or kitchen.
Just cut pallet wood into short lengths, arrange them side by side, and secure with backing strips. Paint them in shades of orange or keep them natural for a weathered look.
Add a wine cork or small branch for the stem, then finish with twine bows, faux leaves, or raffia for texture. Display them in groups of varying sizes to create a cozy fall vignette that feels handmade and full of charm.
#18 Copper Pipe Strapping Pumpkin
This copper pipe strapping pumpkin is a clever way to bring a touch of industrial charm into your fall décor. The metallic strips form a perfect pumpkin shape while still feeling light and airy.
To make one, cut equal lengths of copper strapping, curve them into loops, and secure them together at the top and bottom with a screw or bolt.
Twist a piece of wire into curly tendrils for a whimsical stem, then set it on a mantel, shelf, or tiered tray. The natural shine of copper pairs beautifully with warm autumn leaves and gourds, making it a standout piece in your seasonal display.
#19 Simple DIY Burlap Pumpkin Wreath
This burlap pumpkin wreath is a rustic yet cheerful way to welcome guests right at your door. The ruffled orange burlap creates the pumpkin shape, while a bit of green fabric and raffia at the top mimic leaves and vines.
To make your own, weave orange burlap ribbon through a wire wreath form, fluffing it until it looks full and rounded. Add green burlap for the leafy detail, then tie a piece of raffia or twine to give it that harvest-time feel.
A short stick works perfectly as the stem, completing the pumpkin look. Hang it on your front door, and you ll instantly have cozy fall charm without much effort.
#20 Wood and Metal Decorative Pumpkin
This wood and metal pumpkin blends farmhouse character with industrial charm, making it a standout in your seasonal decor.
The layered wooden planks form a dimensional pumpkin shape, while the metal accents, like the leafy vines and crow detail, add texture and interest.
To create a similar look, cut wood into curved panels, paint them in warm pumpkin tones, and distress the edges for a weathered finish. Attach the panels to a round wood base, then secure small metal pieces for the leaves and stem.
You can even add a crow silhouette for a playful touch. Place it on your porch or by the fireplace, and it will instantly give your space cozy harvest vibes.
#21 Rag Strip Pumpkin
See how to make a rag strip pumpkin step by step .
This rag strip pumpkin is a perfect example of how cozy textures can bring the season indoors. The layered strips of fabric in plaid, checks, and warm fall tones give it a homespun charm that feels like autumn quilts and crisp evenings by the fire.
To make one, cut fabric into long strips and wrap them around a round base like a foam ball or balled-up fabric. Secure the strips with pins or glue, alternating colors for a patchwork effect.
Add a twig or grapevine piece for the stem and tuck in a fabric or faux leaf for a final detail. It s a creative way to repurpose fabric scraps while crafting a pumpkin that looks festive and snug.