19 pumpkin decorating ideas that don’t require carving

Autumn is upon us, which means you can count on pumpkins everywhere and in everything. Whether or not you’re a fan of all things pumpkin spice, most people can agree that decorated pumpkins on stoops, porches and windowsills can bring an element of fun or spookiness to the season.

For some, a sliced up jack-o’-lantern is the only way to go, and many people pride themselves on their skill at carving pumpkins. However, if you would rather avoid slimy pumpkin guts and the malodorous fragrance of a rotting, weeks-old squash on your steps, you have plenty of other options. This collection of gorgeous, funny and unique no-carve pumpkin ideas might provide just the inspiration you need.

1. Pumpkin Flower Holder

Using hot glue, you can use pumpkins as a way to display succulent plants throughout the fall season. Learn how to make it.

Pumpkin-Succulent-Arrangement-simplyhappenstance.com-72
Simply Happenstance

2. Mummy Pumpkin

You’ll hardly recognize that orange pumpkin once it’s all dressed up as a mummy. Find out how to make it here.

img_4743
A Little Bit Of This & That

3. Glitter Pumpkin

Have some fun and add glitter to your pumpkin for a festive touch. Follow these steps.

Two Sisters Crafting

4. Bedazzled Pumpkin

For some people, it don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that bling. Bedazzle your pumpkin with glued-on rhinestones or adhesive “diamond” wrap ribbon. A little sparkle goes a long way. Learn more here.

DSC_0168
Making Lemonade

5. Chalkboard Paint Pumpkin

Write fall messages on your pumpkin by adding chalkboard paint to them. Watch this video to transform your pumpkin into a message board.

6. Lace Pumpkin

A little bit of fabric is all you need to give a pumpkin a classy upgrade. Learn more here.

Stocking-300x276
Green Moxie

7. Push Pin Pumpkin

You can use any type of colorful or decorative push pin to add a little something to a pumpkin this season. Follow these simple steps to create one for yourself.

brad-pumpkin-2
A Subtle Revelry

8. Unicorns

How about a set of adorable, magical unicorn pumpkins on your porch? Some spray paint, clay and fabric pieces are all you need to make these.

Confettidea

9. Glow In The Dark

You can easily up the spoookiness factor by painting pumpkins with glow-in-the-dark fabric paint. Shine a black light on them for an especially eye-catching effect.

I Love to Create

10. Emojis

Express yourself by turning your pumpkins into your favorite emojis. This idea is super kid friendly, since you can cut the pieces out of paper and tape or tack them on.

Brit + Co

11. String Art

A hammer and nails, some thread and a bit of time are all you need to create a striking string art pumpkin. It may look complex, but it’s actually a simple DIY, plus you can make any design you choose.

Lovely Indeed

12. Whitewashed

If you love simple, rustic decor, this no-carve pumpkin idea might speak to you. Replacing the natural stem with a bit of driftwood adds a dreamy, coastal appeal.

Tidbits

13. Thumbtacks

A drawn-on design might not look like much, but when you adorn the pumpkin with shiny thumbtacks, it really pops.

The Crazy Craft Lady

14. Yarn-Wrapped

Give your pumpkins a cozy, autumn appeal by swathing them in thick ropes of yarn. No knitting required!

The Crafting Chicks

15. Decoupage

Turn leftover scraps of paper into a Halloween decoration with pure country charm. Decoupaging the bits onto a pumpkin gives it a quilted appearance.

The Vintage Umbrella

16. Polka Dotted

If understated elegance with a bit of whimsy is the theme you’re after, consider basic polka dots. The added ribbon provides just the right amount of flair.

Classy Clutter

17. Fabric-Covered

There’s no law that says pumpkins have to be orange. Accent your home decor by wrapping them in gorgeous complementary fabrics.

Unoriginal Mom

18. Confetti

You can’t have a celebration without confetti. Decoupage it onto pumpkins for a festive Halloween party decoration.

The Crafted Life

19. Duct Taped

If you try any of the other no-carve pumpkin ideas and they just don’t quite work for you, we have the perfect solution: wrap it in duct tape! It fixes everything.

Confessions of a Plate Addict

[h/t: PopSugar, All You and Bustle]

Crafts, Holiday & Seasonal
, ,

Related posts

Robert Irwin at Time 100 Next event in 2019
Steve Irwin's son Robert was a picture-perfect Ken on Halloween
Neil Patrick Harris' family won Halloween with their amazing costumes, as usual
Jack-o'-lantern overflowing with Halloween candy
You can send your leftover Halloween candy to troops serving away from home
HearthSong 3-D Unicorn Pumpkin Decorating Kit
10 no-carve pumpkin decorating kits your kids will love

About the Author
Tricia Goss
Tricia Goss is a Texas-based writer and editor with nearly two decades of experience. She is passionate about helping readers improve their skills, gain knowledge and attain more happiness in life. When she’s not working, Tricia enjoys traveling with her husband and their dog, especially to visit their five grandchildren.

From our partners