How to Paint Pumpkins

Perfect for even the youngest goblins, pumpkin painting is a fun activity for Halloween parties, playdates or just with the family. With just a few supplies and a little imagination, you can make pumpkins come to life...and they'll last a lot longer than carved jack-o-lanterns.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pumpkins (any size...I like the mini-pumpkins and the slightly larger sugar or pie pumpkins)
• Newspaper
• Acrylic Paints
• Paint Brushes
• Spray Sealer
• Household items such as silk flowers, raffia, straw hats, etc.

1. Wash and dry the pumpkin. Place on newspaper-covered table.

2. Think about the design you want to paint on your pumpkin. Is it a scary face, a silly face, a cartoon character? Look in coloring books, Halloween catalogs, etc. to choose the face that you will paint.

3. Lightly sketch your design on the pumpkin. This will give you a guideline of where all the facial features will be placed. With your brush and acrylic paints, begin painting the design on your pumpkin. Allow each color to dry a bit before adding additional colors. This will keep the paint colors from running together. Let the paint dry.

4. 
   Paint An Entire Pumpkin Family!

   In a well-ventilated area, spray the painted pumpkin with a clear sealer. Let dry. Embellish your painted pumpkin masterpiece with raffia for hair, a straw hat, jewelry, witches hat or whatever you'd like. Display your pumpkin proudly!

Tips & Warnings

• Decide what design you are going to paint before you start painting.
• Keep the design simple.
• If children are participating in this activity, let them be creative. If it's not exactly perfect, stay positive. It's their creation and they should be proud of it.
• Do not allow small children to use the spray sealer. Only an adult should do this step.
• Provide a smock or old shirt for young children who participate in this activity.

Resources

• Easy Pumpkin Painting
• Pumpkin Decorating Ideas