DIY Terra Cotta Pumpkins: Easy Pottery Barn Dupe for Fall -

A fall-themed dining table is set with white plates, gold utensils, crystal glasses, orange candles, mini white pumpkins, and a centerpiece of dried hydrangeas in a terra cotta pumpkin vase, surrounded by autumn leaves.

I’ve always loved the look of aged terra cotta. You’ll find it scattered throughout my home both indoors and out almost year-round. The rich texture and earthy tones bring so much character to any space. When Pottery Barn released their terra cotta pumpkins a few years ago, I instantly fell in love. They were completely my vibe, but unfortunately not within my budget. That led me down the path of creating my own diy terracotta pumpkins using inexpensive seasonal finds and a simple faux terra cotta paint technique that has become one of my favorites.

Over time, I’ve tried many different methods that involved baking soda or flour to get that chalky texture. While those work, they tend to be messy, hard to store, and not always practical if you’re painting multiple pieces. The painting technique I’m sharing today is a streamlined version that uses only paint. It gives the same beautiful matte finish and aged terra cotta look, without the mess of excess flour or complicated paint recipes.

This year, I wanted a unique pumpkin centerpiece for my dining table. None of the store-bought pumpkins matched my color scheme or plans for the tablescape, so I decided to create my own terra cotta pumpkin vase. The result was even better than I imagined—an elegant faux pumpkin transformed into a timeless vase that feels like a pottery barn terracotta pumpkin dupe.

If you’re ready to make your own version, let’s walk through this easy DIY project.

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A plastic pumpkin sits on a table with two bottles of paint, two paintbrushes on a paper plate, and a pair of nail clippers arranged in front of it.

Supplies

To create your own diy terra cotta pumpkin centerpiece, gather the following items. Most of these are easy to find at hobby stores like Hobby Lobby, your local craft aisle, or even your seasonal stash from last year.

Faux pumpkins (for a vase, choose faux carvable pumpkins with a hollow center)
Pueblo acrylic paint
Vintage white acrylic paint
Paint brushes (chip brushes work perfectly)
Paper plates for mixing paint colors
Wax paper to protect your work area
Paper towels
Water
Gloves to keep hands clean

Optional: A glass jar or small vase to fit inside your pumpkin if you’re creating a vase centerpiece.

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Step-By-Step Instructions for Terra Cotta Pumpkins

This step-by-step tutorial will walk you through creating your faux terra cotta pumpkins. Whether you’re painting small pumpkins, larger pumpkins, or even plastic jack-o-lanterns, this technique works on any type of pumpkin.

Step 1: Prep your pumpkin

If you’re making a vase, the first thing you’ll want to do is cut the top center out of your faux carvable pumpkin. Save the stem for later. If you’re painting smaller pumpkins for decor, you can skip this step.

A person uses pliers to remove the stem from an artificial orange pumpkin while holding it steady with their other hand.

A hand lifts the lid off an orange ceramic pumpkin container, revealing its hollow white interior. The pumpkin is decorative and the background is blurred.

Step 2: Set up your work area

Lay down a drop cloth, wax paper, or even use a cardboard box to protect your space. A clean work surface will make the entire project easier.

Two hands with painted nails are pressing down on a sheet of white parchment or wax paper, which is laid flat on a light-colored surface.

Step 3: Apply the first coat

Using a paint brush, cover the entire pumpkin with Pueblo acrylic paint. Be sure to get into the grooves and creases. This first coat will establish the perfect terracotta color base. Let it dry thoroughly before moving to the next step.

A person uses a paintbrush to apply light brown paint to an artificial orange pumpkin, with a white paint palette visible nearby.

A hand uses a paintbrush to apply tan paint to the surface of an orange pumpkin next to a white plate holding paint.

A large, smooth pumpkin is sitting on a table covered with paper. Next to it is a paintbrush and a plate with orange paint, suggesting the pumpkin has been freshly painted. Shelves with dishes are in the background.

Step 4: Add depth with white paint

Once the first coat is dry, dip your brush into a little white paint. Apply a thin, uneven layer across the pumpkin surface. Work in vertical strokes so it mimics the natural texture of real terra cotta.

A hand uses a paintbrush to apply white paint to an artificial pumpkin, with two plates holding paint nearby on a light surface.

A close-up of a large paintbrush applying white paint to the surface of an orange pumpkin, with a paint palette nearby on a light background.

Step 5: Blend for a natural finish

Before this second coat sets, take a damp paper towel and gently wipe across the surface. Leave the lighter color paint in the grooves and wipe away from the raised areas. This creates visual interest and gives the entire pumpkin a matte finish with that authentic aged look. Allow it to air dry completely.

A gloved hand holds a cloth, applying white paint to a terracotta pumpkin-shaped object on a light surface.

A person wearing plastic gloves uses a cloth to apply a white substance to the surface of a pumpkin, likely for a craft or decoration project.

A person wearing clear gloves holds a smooth, light brown pumpkin with white lines accentuating its grooves, suggesting it is being painted or decorated.

Step 6: Transform into a vase

If you’re creating a centerpiece, slip a small glass jar or vase inside the hollow pumpkin. Add water, then fill with flowers. I love adding hydrangeas from my garden. They naturally dry in place, which makes them the perfect finishing touch for the fall season.

A person with painted nails holds a clear glass jar filled with water, placed inside a round, orange pumpkin shell on a light, neutral background.

Two hands hold a hollow, pumpkin-shaped container with a glass jar placed inside, viewed from above on a light-colored surface.

That’s it—an adorable pumpkin centerpiece with all the charm of pottery barn versions at a fraction of the cost.

A bouquet of dried hydrangeas in shades of green and brown arranged in a peach-colored, pumpkin-shaped vase on a marble tabletop. A chandelier hangs above, with blurred decor in the background.

Tips for the Perfect Terra Cotta Pumpkins

If you want a darker color, layer a second coat of Pueblo before adding the lighter paint.
For a softer pumpkin look, dry brush with just a little white paint instead of wiping with paper towels.
Different sizes of craft pumpkin create dimension when styled together. Grouping larger pumpkins with small pumpkins makes the best look for a front porch or dining table.
If you’re repurposing plastic pumpkins or ceramic pumpkins from last year, give them a quick sanding block pass before painting. This helps the paint stick to the entire surface.
Don’t be afraid to try different ways of layering colors. Adding a little darker paint or a lighter color variation can help you achieve your perfect color scheme.
This technique also works beautifully on foam pumpkin stems, giving them a natural pottery barn pumpkin vibe.
Use a matte finish sealer if you plan to keep your diy pottery barn pumpkin outdoors on the porch for the fall season.

A vase with large, dried hydrangea flowers in shades of green and brown sits on a decorated table, surrounded by autumn leaves and a velvet ribbon, beneath a crystal chandelier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pumpkin works best for this project?

Faux pumpkins are ideal, especially foam or craft pumpkin varieties. Plastic pumpkins and plastic jack-o-lanterns also work well with this painting technique.

Can I use real pumpkins?

Yes, but real pumpkins won’t last the entire season. For long-lasting décor that can be reused year after year, faux pumpkins are the best part of this project.

Do I have to cut the top if I’m not making a vase?

No. If you just want painted pumpkin décor, leave the stem in place. Cutting is only needed for vase projects.

What paint colors should I use?

I love Pueblo for the base and Vintage White for the lighter color. Together they create the perfect terra cotta look. You can adjust with darker color shades or add a little white paint to lighten the effect.

Will this work on ceramic pumpkins or store-bought pumpkins?

Yes. This diy terra cotta pumpkin technique works on ceramic, foam, or plastic. It’s a great way to refresh décor you already own.

How long does the paint take to dry?

The first coat usually dries in about 30 minutes depending on your work area conditions. Make sure it’s completely dry before applying the second coat.

Do I need to seal the pumpkin?

If the pumpkin will stay indoors, sealing isn’t necessary. For outdoor or front porch displays, a matte finish spray sealer will help protect it.

An elegant dining table set for fall with white plates, glassware, small white pumpkins, and orange leaves. A vase with dried hydrangeas serves as a centerpiece. Lit candles and a crystal chandelier add warmth.

Creating your own diy terra cotta pumpkin is such a fun fall craft and a great way to add timeless pottery barn style without the price tag. From small pumpkins styled on a mantel to larger pumpkins as dining table centerpieces, there are endless different ways to use this technique. The best part is how easy it is—you only need a few paint colors and simple steps to get the perfect terra cotta look.

So whether you’re painting a foam pumpkin, refreshing last year’s adorable pumpkins, or making your own diy pottery barn pumpkin vase, this easy diy project will be one you reach for every fall season.

Happy crafting, friends! If you try this diy terra cotta pumpkin painting technique, I’d love to see your own version. Follow along on social media @returninggrace and be sure to tag me or leave a comment with your project.