How to Choose Pumpkin Painting Patterns

It seems like new styles of pumpkin painting crop up every Halloween. But don't let choosing the perfect design be a source of stress. Instead, embrace the fact that every pumpkin has a slightly different shape and every painter has her own style. Take on the hunt for a pumpkin pattern in the same spirit that you take the search for the perfect pumpkin, and you're sure to find one you'll fall for.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pumpkin
• Selection of Pumpkin Painting Patterns

1. Decide what type of pumpkin you would like to paint this year. Are you thinking about a traditional pumpkin? Something scary? A whimsical design? Or an oddball that will get the neighbors talking?

2. Analyze your pumpkin objectively. Is it symmetrical? Is it short and squat or tall and lean? Some patterns require pumpkins of a certain shape. If you want to carve a witch with a tall hat, for example, you'll need a pumpkin with a little height.

3. Choose a base pumpkin pattern that matches your style and the general shape of your pumpkin.

4. Consider your painting skills and whether any small children will be assisting with the process. You can simplify the pumpkin painting by eliminating extra details and smoothing out intricate lines.

5. Sketch in any necessary changes in order to adapt to irregularities in your pumpkin's shape before you begin. Be prepared to improvise as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• You can find pumpkin painting patterns online, in magazines, or by looking around the neighborhood for inspiration.

References

• Simple Pumpkin Painting

Resources

• eHow Halloween Directory