How to Paint Pumpkin Faces

Halloween just would not be Halloween without jack-o'-lanterns. Carving or painting pumpkins can be a great way to get into the holiday spirit for both children and adults. Painting faces on pumpkins rather than carving provides an opportunity to create more detailed facial expressions and is safer for younger children.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Paints
• Paint brush
• Newspaper

Instructions

1. Lay down the newspaper where you plan on working, and set the pumpkin on top. The newspaper will help to protect the surface of your work area from the paint and make clean up easier.

2. Draw a face on the pumpkin using the pencil. The face can be as detailed or simple as you would like it to be. Be careful not to puncture the skin of the pumpkin with the tip of the pencil.

3. Paint the face on the pumpkin. Start with lighter colors and let each color dry before moving on to the next. This will prevent paint from mixing and colors from becoming blurred. If your face has a black outline around any of the features, paint this last.

4. Let the pumpkin stand 2 to 4 hours to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use any type of paint on pumpkins; however, if you plan on keeping your pumpkin outdoors, it is a good idea to use acrylic paint that will stand up to the weather and not come off in the rain.

• Always supervise small children when working with any type of paint.

Resources

• Pumpkin Lady - ideas for jack o lanterns
• eHow Halloween Directory