Paper Mache Pumpkins – How To Make Your Own

Paper Mache Pumpkins

If you want to make your paper mache pumpkins this year, you need to start now!

  This way of making paper mache is not what you experienced in school!  I SHARED THE STEPS IN THREE POSTS when I first shared the step-by-step process for making these pumpkins.  After sharing some of my first pictures, people were polite and said complimentary patronizing things.  I’m sure they weren’t that impressed.  Would you be if you saw this picture?

Then, the homemade paper mache clay came into play.  At that point, I had their attention. 

 

After building up the clay and adding detail, friends and family seemed more impressed. 

Then, adding the paint created a pretty interesting pumpkin for my first attempt.

TIPS

I learned things along the way.  The clay should not be too wet.  When you pick some up in your hand, it should be pliable but water should not be easily squeezed from the clay.  If it is too wet, it won't hold its shape as well.  Just add more of the insulation. The result should be somewhat like mashed potatoes. 

Another thing is that you should cover the base of the pumpkin around the hole in the bottom first.  It's best to add the paper clay up the sides of the pumpkin an inch or two and then allow it to dry.  This gives some structure and a good foundation. 

To keep the stem standing up straight instead of leaning over like this one, create the base of the stem first and then allow it to dry.  Then, shape the middle portion and allow it to dry.  Depending on how long you've made the stem, the tip end comes last.  If it's a shorter stem, you can make it in two steps.  Then, after the stem has been allowed to dry, add the detail.

Too much wet clay all at one time, in the beginning, will cause problems.  The paper strip walls might collapse or cause the facial openings to misshape.  

 

You can find step-by-step directions for making the glue for the paper strips, the paper clay, and making the paper mache pumpkin ◄ by clicking here.  You probably have most of the ingredients on hand.

 

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Pumpkin Wreath

Using these same DIY steps, I made a  pumpkin wreath for our front door that no one will forget.  ◄ You can click here for step-by-step directions for making this wreath using a picture frame.  My directions are very detailed and this pumpkin wreath is shown step by step in three posts, part 1, part 2, and part 3.  You can make your own!  (We did get lots of comments on this and even an offer to buy it.)

5 Little Pumpkins Sitting On The Gate

Remember the little kid’s song, “5 Little Pumpkins Sitting On The Gate“?  Well, that is the inspiration for one of my latest Halloween displays.  I already have three pumpkins complete.

Two more pumpkins are in the works for a mantel display for Halloween.  You can expect a post on the finished project in the next few weeks.  Sign up below for the newsletter so you won’t miss the post!

Scary Paper Mache Pumpkins To Frighten The Little Ones

This year, I’m also making a big scary pumpkin, complete with arms, to place in the birch trees in the front yard.  A frightful pumpkin will greet trick or Treaters.  He’s beginning to take shape now.  I have a new idea for his mouth and eyes…  It involves using a drill.  Can’t wait!

Paper Mache Pumpkins - How To Make Your Own

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