Painting Faux Pumpkins with Acrylic Paint: Easy Decor Update

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to add a Fall flair to your space is by painting faux pumpkins! This year, I’ve chosen a rich, deep green tone for my Fall decorations. In previous years, I embraced a more classic look with white pumpkins accented in terra cotta. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, painting faux pumpkins is a rewarding DIY project that can bring a unique and personal touch to your autumn decor. This guide will delve into the process, offering step-by-step instructions, tips, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you achieve the ultimate pumpkin makeover.

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Materials You’ll Need

Before diving into the painting process, it’s important to gather all necessary materials. Here’s a comprehensive list:

• Faux Pumpkins: Choose from plastic or styrofoam pumpkins. They’re lightweight, durable, and perfect for painting.
• Acrylic Paint: Opt for any color paint that suits your fall decor. Acrylic paint is ideal for its versatility and ease of use.
• Paintbrushes: Have a variety of brushes on hand, including large for base coats and smaller for details.
• Painter’s Tape (Optional): Useful for creating clean lines or separating different colors.
• Craft Sponge or Foam Brush: Ideal for adding texture and achieving a more natural look.
• Sealer or Acrylic Varnish (Optional): Provides a protective finish to prolong the life of your painted pumpkins.
• Drop Cloth, Newspaper or Wax Paper: Protects your workspace from paint spills and splatters.
• Paper Towels: For blotting brushes for dry brushing.
• Wet Wipes(Optional): Useful to remove excess paint on the pumpkins or spills.

Paint Colors:

Base Color: Olive Green and Medium Gray

Accent Colors: Raw Sienna and Burnt Umber. Starlight gold optional for lighter gold accents.

All of the Paint Colors are Folk Art Matte Acrylic Paint.

​Faux Pumpkin Sources

When it comes to finding faux pumpkins for your painting project, there are several great places to look. Hobby Lobby, Michaels or any local craft store offer a wide range of faux pumpkins in various sizes, shapes, and finishes, perfect for any fall decor style. Dollar Tree or any other Dollar Store provide a budget-friendly option where you can find simple faux pumpkins ideal for DIY customization. Additionally, thrift stores can be a treasure trove for unique and affordable fake pumpkins, often allowing you to score great deals on pre-loved items. Exploring these locations can help you find the perfect pumpkins to bring your painted pumpkin creations to life. Remember to choose pumpkins in different sizes for depth and interest

A Budget-Friendly Way to Refresh Your Decor

Painting faux pumpkins is not only a creative way to update own pumpkins but also a budget-friendly option for reusing items year after year. Instead of purchasing new decorations each season, you can transform your existing faux pumpkins with a fresh coat of paint and new color schemes. This approach allows you to change the look of your decor without breaking the bank, offering endless possibilities for customization. By refreshing your pumpkins each year, you can keep your seasonal decor looking stylish and new, all while making the most of your budget.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation

Begin by setting up your workspace. Lay down a drop cloth or newspaper to catch any paint spills and keep your area clean. Ensure that your faux pumpkins are free from any stickers or labels, which you should remove carefully. Clean the pumpkins with a damp cloth to remove any dust or residue, and let them dry completely before starting your project.

2. Base Coat

Applying a base coat is crucial for achieving an even and smooth finish. Choose a color that will help cover the pumpkin’s original color and provide a solid foundation in this first coat for your final shade. Use a large paint brush to apply a thin, even layer of acrylic paint over the entire surface of each pumpkin. Allow the base coat to dry completely before applying additional layers. Depending on the base coat color and your final shade, you may need two or more coats. You can choose white paint, black paint or the chosen color as the base coat. Just ensure that the base coat won’t change the look of your chosen color. For example, if painting the pumpkin white, you would want to choose a light color or even an extra coat of white as your base coat instead of a darker color. For an even faster option, you can use a spray primer for the base coat. 

If you’re painting the pumpkin a dark color that will cover the faux pumpkin color well, you can use your chosen primary color as your base coat as shown in Step 3.

3. Painting

Once the base coat is fully dry, you’re ready to apply your chosen color. For this year, I’m using a deep green acrylic craft paint to add a touch of sophistication and warmth to my fall decor. Use a medium-sized brush to apply the paint to the main areas of the pumpkin. Be sure to work in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This approach helps prevent drips and ensures a smooth finish.

For these pumpkins, I used a mixture of 1 part Olive Green to 1 part Medium Gray to achieve a rich green color. If going from bright orange to white, a base coat of white primer would be recommended to help block out the bright orange undertones of the pumpkin.

4. Adding Texture and Accents

For a more dynamic and realistic look, consider adding texture and accents to your pumpkins. A craft sponge, foam brush or chip brush can be used to dab on additional paint, creating a textured effect that mimics natural pumpkin skin. You can also experiment with different colors for accents. For example, metallic shades or contrasting with a darker shade or lighter color can add visual interest and depth to your pumpkins. If you’re going for a more rustic or vintage feel, consider using a dry brush technique to lightly brush on a different color or metallic finish.

To Dry Brush:

Use a bristle brush. Add a small amount of paint to the paint brush. Blot most of the paint off of the bristles by dabbing it onto a dry paper towel then dab the paint brush onto the area you want to accent.

Accent Colors

For the accent colors, I began by dry brushing Mossy Meadow into the creases of the pumpkin, giving it a subtle green tint. Once this first layer was dry, I applied a mixture of 1 part Raw Sienna to 1/2 part Burnt Umber to create a rich, golden-brown contrast. This technique added depth and dimension, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the pumpkin.

Pro Tip: Excess Paint

If you find that you’ve applied too much paint to the accent layers, don’t worry—there’s an easy fix. Simply use a wet wipe to gently remove the excess paint. This technique helps you achieve a more controlled and nuanced finish, allowing you to fine-tune the color and ensure that the accents enhance rather than overpower your pumpkin’s design. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain the balance and depth of your painted accents.

5. Finishing Touches

For best results to ensure that your painted pumpkins last through the season, apply a coat of sealer or acrylic varnish once the paint is completely dry. This protective layer helps guard against chipping and fading, keeping your pumpkins looking fresh and vibrant. Simply brush on the sealer evenly, and allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Displaying Your Painted Pumpkins

With your pumpkins fully painted and dried, it’s time to display them. Arrange them in your desired location, whether it’s on a mantel, dining table, or as part of a larger fall-themed display. You can also use them to accentuate other fall decor elements, such as wreaths or garlands, to create a cohesive seasonal look.

Tips for a Successful Pumpkin Painting Project

• Test Paint Colors: Before committing to your final color, test it on a small area of the pumpkin to ensure it’s the shade you want. Acrylic paint can sometimes appear different once dry.
• Layering: For a more nuanced appearance, layer different shades of paint. This technique adds depth and dimension to your pumpkins, making them stand out.
• Clean Brushes Immediately: Acrylic paint dries quickly and can ruin your brushes if left on. Clean your brushes immediately after use with water and soap.
• Allow Adequate Drying Time: Ensure each coat of paint is completely dry before applying additional layers or handling the pumpkins. This prevents smudging and ensures a smooth finish.
• Protect Your Workspace: Use a drop cloth or newspaper to protect your surfaces from paint spills and splatters. This also makes for easier cleanup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use spray paint instead of acrylic paint? 

Yes, spray paint can be a great alternative for achieving a smooth and even finish. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and cover your workspace to protect against overspray. Spray paint can be faster and provide a more uniform coverage compared to brush painting.

How do I fix mistakes or touch up areas? 

If you make a mistake or need to touch up areas, wait for the paint to dry completely. Lightly sand the affected area to smooth out any imperfections, and then repaint. Multiple thin coats are preferable to one thick coat for achieving an even finish.

Can I mix acrylic paint colors?

Absolutely! Mixing acrylic paints can help you create custom shades and achieve the exact color you want. Experiment with different color combinations to find the perfect hue for your pumpkins.

How should I store my painted pumpkins?

To extend the life of your painted pumpkins, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid areas with high humidity or temperature fluctuations, as these can affect the paint’s longevity.

Can I use these painted pumpkins outdoors? 

While acrylic paint and sealer provide some protection, painted faux pumpkins are best suited for indoor use. If you plan to display them outdoors, consider using outdoor-rated paint and sealer to withstand weather conditions.

Can I use other paint besides acrylic paint?

Yes, you can use other types of paint for your faux pumpkins. Chalk paint is a popular choice for its matte finish and ease of use, which can give your pumpkins a vintage or rustic look. Milk paint is another option that offers a more natural, matte finish and can be used to create a unique, textured appearance. Both options can work well, but be sure to test them on a small area first and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

Painting faux pumpkins is an easy way to add a personalized touch to your fall decor. With a bit of creativity and these tips, you’ll be able to transform ordinary pumpkins into stunning autumnal accents that match your fall color palette perfectly. Enjoy the process and the satisfaction of creating beautiful, custom decorations that will enhance your seasonal displays. 

Painting faux pumpkins offers a versatile and fun way to enhance your fall decor. This year, by choosing a deep green for your faux pumpkins, you can create a rich and sophisticated look that complements the autumn season beautifully. In contrast, incorporating a faux terracotta pumpkin look, as I’ve done in the past, provides a classic and timeless aesthetic that pairs well with a variety of fall themes. Whether you opt for the bold elegance of green pumpkins or the warm charm of terra cotta accents, this DIY project allows you to personalize your space and celebrate the season with creativity and flair. Enjoy the process and the stunning results as you bring your autumn vision to life!

Pin For Later

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