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.
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.
3. Glitter Pumpkin
Have some fun and add glitter to your pumpkin for a festive touch. Follow these steps.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
13. Thumbtacks
A drawn-on design might not look like much, but when you adorn the pumpkin with shiny thumbtacks, it really pops.
14. Yarn-Wrapped
Give your pumpkins a cozy, autumn appeal by swathing them in thick ropes of yarn. No knitting required!
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.
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.
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.
18. Confetti
You can’t have a celebration without confetti. Decoupage it onto pumpkins for a festive Halloween party decoration.
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.