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+ servings
mini pumpkins painted on box with acrylic paint

Painting Pumpkin Ideas

Painted pumpkin ideas that are perfect for a fun fall or Halloween activities with tips and tricks for success.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

Supplies 

  • Acrylic Paint - try to have a variety of colors but remember you can absolutely mix paint to get more color options without buying extra bottles.
  • Brushes - I like having both sponge brushes and bristled brushes on hand. Different sizes and shapes provide different levels of control. Just keep in mind if you are planning on reusing the brushes to make sure to clean the brushes before the paint dries.
  • Water Cup - this is optional but I like having water cups around. That way the kids can dunk their brushes when they are done and if you're busy having too much fun to quickly tend to the brushes they won't be ruined.
  • Pumpkins - my favorite is to use the mini pumpkins because they are inexpensive and little ones won't get bored or frustrated by the large canvas. You could even let more motivated kids paint more than one. That said you can absolutely paint large pumpkins and if you want a bigger or more complex design that my be a better choice.
  • Old boxes - I like to use old boxes or scrap cardboard to paint on. It's also handy if you need to transport not totally dry pumpkins.
  • Painting Pallets - totally optional but if you have them or have kids that love to paint they are very handy. It's nice to help control the amount of paint that's used and they are easy to clean up. That said you can absolutely just squirt some paint onto a scrap of cardboard or paper plate. I just like that the pallets are easy to see (less accidents from stepping in or putting your hand on a pallet than scraps) and portion control.
  • Other add ons - you can add sequins glitter, stickers, gems, pom poms or so much more. If you have it laying around offer it up! Somethings like sequins and glitter may stick to the paint but if you use bigger items you may want to grab some glue as well.

Instructions

  • Set up the area. I strongly prefer to paint pumpkins outside.
  • Give the kids some ideas and basic tricks. Part of the fun is seeing what the kids decide to do with their pumpkins but I find it helpful to give them ideas and painting tips.
  • Allow layers to dry. Make sure to remind the painters to have fun and if they don't like how it looks, they can paint over it!
  • Add accents. If you want to take it up a notch pull out the glue and add some accents.
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