This paper mache pumpkin is an ideal project for those who enjoy getting their hands dirty and immersing themselves in a creative endeavor! I’m thrilled with how this pumpkin turned out and have plenty of ideas for improving my next one. The project evolved as I worked on it; I initially aimed for a neutral pumpkin, but as you can see, it took on a different look. Keep reading to discover how to make your own paper mache pumpkin!
TOOLS & MATERIALS
Punch Balloon
Paper Sacks or Newspaper
Flour
Salt
Water
Container to Mix In
Twine
Spray Paint
Pumpkin Stem
Foliage *optional
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Before diving into this project, there are a few preparations to make.
PREPARING THE PAPER
Begin by tearing your paper sacks or newspapers into strips. If you’re using paper sacks, aim for thin strips, as they will create a better 3-D effect on your pumpkin. If you opt for newspaper, wider strips are fine since the newspaper is lighter than the paper bag.
MAKING YOUR PASTE
Next, prepare your homemade paper mache paste. I started with a cup of flour and added a generous sprinkle of salt to prevent mold. Gradually mix in water with the flour and salt until you achieve a consistency similar to pancake batter.
PREPARING YOUR BALLOON
Inflate your balloon to the desired size of your pumpkin. Keep in mind that less air will give you more variation in shape.
Next, take your twine and tie it around the balloon’s tail. Begin wrapping the twine around the balloon to create the ridges of your pumpkin. Each time you pass the twine over the balloon tail, make sure to wrap it around to secure it in place. Once you’ve created your desired number of ridges, you’re ready to move on to the next step.
GET MESSY
Now it’s time for the fun part—paper mache! Take your strips of newspaper and dip them into the paste you mixed earlier, ensuring they are thoroughly soaked so they can mold to the pumpkin shape. I recommend starting with a layer of newspaper in the crevices or using narrow strips of paper bag, as the thinner newspaper tends to fit better into the grooves of the pumpkin.
Soak the newspaper strips and apply them to your balloon pumpkin until it’s completely covered, making sure to overlap each strip. Allow the pumpkin to dry between layers.
To make the process easier, I found it helpful to place my pumpkin on an old ice cream bucket. This kept the pumpkin from rolling away while I worked on each side.
For my second layer, I repeated the same process but used paper bag strips instead. The thickness of the paper bag strips allowed me to get away with just two layers. If you’re using only newspaper for this project, I recommend applying additional layers to ensure sturdiness.
Once you’ve achieved your desired number of layers, be sure to let the pumpkin dry completely.
I initially hoped that the paper bag strips would give my pumpkin a neutral look, similar to THIS, but once it dried, the paste covered most of the brown. I found that homemade paste tends to be thicker and less translucent than store-bought paper mache. At this point, I decided to paint my pumpkin.
PAINTING THE PUMPKIN
To prepare my pumpkin for painting, I sanded it down using a sanding block like THIS. The paste had dried thicker in some areas where I hadn’t smoothed it out properly, so sanding not only helped even those spots but also provided a better surface for the paint to adhere to.
After sanding, I carefully removed the balloon from inside the pumpkin. This turned out to be quite a process and didn’t go as smoothly as I had hoped!
To remove the balloon, I used a pin to pop it, expecting it to deflate and get trapped inside the pumpkin. To prevent that, I securely held the end of the balloon while I popped it. However, the balloon didn’t deflate as I anticipated! While it did lose air, the twine wrapped around it kept everything in place.
To address this, I cut a small hole in the top of the pumpkin to help loosen the twine. Using my fingers and some leverage, I carefully pulled the twine away from the pumpkin’s walls and slowly lifted the balloon out. You don’t necessarily have to remove the balloon, but I wanted to clear the tail to make room for my stem.
Once the balloon was out, I spray-painted my paper mache pumpkin.
ADDING A STEM
For the stem, I initially wanted to use a stem from a real pumpkin, but that plan didn’t work out. Instead, I created one using paper bag strips. I rolled up a strip and soaked it completely in Mod Podge, then added smaller strips at the base to make it easier to glue onto the pumpkin later.
After letting the stem dry completely, I used a paintbrush and the homemade paste to attach it to the top of the pumpkin. I wiped away any excess paste and allowed it to dry thoroughly.
Next, I used some brown paint and a small paintbrush to color the stem. To give my pumpkin a little extra flair, I took some faux foliage and created a ring to place around the stem, securing it with hot glue.
ADDING SOMETHING EXTRA
This project is fantastic because it allows you to unleash your creativity and customize it to your heart’s content. You can make your pumpkins in any size you desire, choose to leave them bare for a neutral look, or paint them in vibrant, funky colors. You could even cut the pumpkin in half to create a unique bowl! The possibilities are endless!
STYLING YOUR PAPER MACHE PUMPKIN
To style my pumpkin, I used a tureen and added some straw inside, allowing it to peek out around the bottom of the pumpkin for added texture. An urn would also work wonderfully for styling your pumpkin!
LIST OF THE 30 BEST WOMEN’S WHITE T-SHIRTS FOR A YOUTHFUL AND DYNAMIC LOOK
White T-shirts are a wardrobe staple for many women due to their versatility and timeless appeal. They can be styled in countless ways to create both casual and sophisticated looks. In this selection, you’ll find the 30 best white T-shirts for women that are specifically designed to enhance a youthful and dynamic vibe. These T-shirts are not only comfortable and high-quality but also have unique features that set them apart. Whether you’re looking for a classic fit, a trendy oversized style, or a shirt with an interesting design detail, this list has got you covered. Get ready to elevate your style with these incredible white T-shirts!
PETIT BATEAU ICONIC CREW-NECK T-SHIRT
The Petit Bateau Iconic Crew-Neck T-Shirt is a fantastic addition to any woman’s wardrobe. This product is renowned for its iconic fitted design and crew neckline. It’s made from 100% pure cotton, ensuring a soft and comfortable experience for the wearer. The T-shirt is also stretchy, providing natural comfort thanks to the 1×1 rib knit. Available in a variety of sizes like 14(S), 16(M), and 18(L), it caters to different body types. This Petit Bateau’s iconic T-shirt is truly popular and a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and style.
UNIQLO U CREW NECK SHORT-SLEEVE T-SHIRT
The UNIQLO U Crew Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt is a popular product designed for men. It’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to comfort, style, and versatility. The T-shirt is available in a variety of sizes ranging from XXS to 3XL, catering to a wide range of body types. The color options also add to its appeal, offering a variety to choose from depending on personal preferences. The shirt is not only about its look but also about the feel. Customers have given positive reviews about it, praising its comfort and fit. Furthermore, UNIQLO provides assistance in finding the right size, ensuring a perfect fit for every customer. This product truly embodies UNIQLO’s dedication to providing quality and stylish clothing.
BUCK MASON SLUB EASY CREW
The Buck Mason Slub Easy Crew is a modern American classic. This short sleeve crewneck tee is designed with a straight hem and cut from a lightweight slub cotton, making it an essential piece for any wardrobe. Its classic fit ensures a comfortable wear, while the black color adds a touch of sophistication. The Slub Easy Crew is a testament to Buck Mason’s commitment to quality and effortless style. Just like other products from Buck Mason, this tee perfectly encapsulates the brand’s modern, yet timeless, aesthetic.
HANES WOMEN’S PERFECT SHORT SLEEVE T-SHIRT
The Hanes Womens Perfect Short Sleeve T-Shirt is a must-have for any woman’s wardrobe. Crafted from lightweight, ringspun cotton, this T-shirt ensures quality and comfort. It is available in ash and light steel, which are both cotton blends. The T-shirt is machine washable in cold water, an environmentally-friendly approach recommended by Hanes to help reduce energy consumption. Its fabric is 100% combed ring-spun cotton and weighs 4.8 oz. The light steel variant is a blend of 90% combed cotton. The Hanes Womens Perfect Short Sleeve T-Shirt is not just a garment, it’s a perfect blend of comfort, quality, and sustainability.
OLD NAVY BESTEE CREW-NECK T-SHIRT
The Old Navy Bestee Crew-Neck T-Shirt is a classic, slim fit T-shirt that offers an instantly polished look. It features a rib-knit crew neck and short sleeves. It has been well-received by customers, as evidenced by its high rating. The T-shirt is available in a range of colors including BlackJack and Calla Lilies. Priced at $12.00, down from its original price of $16.99, it offers great value. The Old Navy Bestee Crew-Neck T-Shirt is a great choice for those seeking a combination of style, comfort, and affordability.
HANES WOMEN’S NANO T-SHIRT
The Hanes Women’s Nano T-Shirt is a popular item on Amazon and a go-to choice for many women. Made for comfort and style, this T-shirt features a classic crewneck design and is made from cotton, providing a soft and comfortable fit. It’s well-received with a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from over 46,276 reviews, which speaks volumes about its quality and appeal. Over 1,000 have been bought in the past month alone, indicating its popularity among shoppers. Priced at $7.74, down from its original price of $12.00, it offers great value for money. Plus, it comes with free delivery from May 22 – 23, adding to its appeal. The Hanes Womens Nano T-Shirt is truly a blend of comfort, style, and affordability.
VINCE COTTON CREWNECK T-SHIRT
The Vince Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt is a timeless piece from Vince’s collection. Made from Pima cotton, known for its superior quality, this T-shirt offers exceptional comfort and durability. Its crewneck design gives it a classic and versatile look, making it a perfect fit for any wardrobe. This T-shirt is not only a symbol of style but also of quality, as Vince is a brand known for its high-end clothing. Plus, Vince offers free shipping on orders of $250+ and free returns on all orders, making shopping a hassle-free experience. The Vince Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt is a perfect blend of comfort, style, and quality.
BUCK MASON WHITE PIMA BOXY CREW
The Buck Mason White Pima Boxy Crew is a modern American classic. This boxy short sleeve crewneck tee features a straight hem and is cut from 120 GSM Supima cotton, making it both stylish and comfortable. Available in white and Venice wash colors, it offers variety to suit different preferences. The T-shirt is priced at $45, with the option of 4 interest-free payments of $11.25, making it affordable without compromising on quality. With its classic design and superior material, the Buck Mason White Pima Boxy Crew is a great addition to any wardrobe.
EVERLANE THE ORGANIC COTTON V-NECK
The Everlane Organic Cotton V-Neck Tee is a classic piece that adds a touch of effortless style to any outfit. The Tee features a laid-back shape with a deep, open neckline, making it a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. What sets this V-neck apart is its composition of lightweight organic cotton, which makes it ultra-breathable and soft to the touch. It’s a perfect piece to revamp your basics collection. Offered in a classic black color, the Everlane Organic Cotton V-Neck Tee is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and style.
KOTN ESSENTIAL CREW T-SHIRT
The Kotn Essential Crew T-Shirt is the quintessential year-round wardrobe staple. As the core to Kotn’s collection, it represents the brand’s commitment to quality and style. The brand also offers free carbon-offset shipping on orders over $100, adding to the overall appeal and convenience of purchasing from them. Beyond just being a clothing line, Kotn is also known for its ethical practices. Many customers appreciate this aspect and consider it a key reason for choosing Kotn. In essence, the Kotn Essential Crew T-Shirt is more than just a piece of clothing; it’s a statement of style and ethics.
FAHERTY SUNWASHED CREW TEE
The Faherty Sunwashed Crew Tee is inspired by iconic vintage T-shirts. Crafted in organic cotton and garment washed, it has a perfectly lived-in look and feel. Cut with a relaxed silhouette, this T-shirt is timeless, versatile, and can be worn with everything. Despite its simplicity, Faherty doesn’t consider this a basic piece. The relaxed fit and short sleeves make it a comfortable choice for any casual occasion. This Sunwashed Crew Tee is a testament to Faherty’s commitment to quality, comfort, and style. It’s not just a T-shirt; it’s a wardrobe essential that reflects a laid-back and classic aesthetic.
EVERYBODY.WORLD BABY TRASH TEE
The Everybody.World Baby Trash Tee is a part of the brand’s Trash Collection. An innovative and eco-friendly product, this Tee is made from a world-first 100% reclaimed waste cotton jersey and fleece. It contains no synthetic fibers or microplastics, and no virgin raw materials are used in its production. The production process is also ethical, with the T-shirt being made in fair-wage factories in Los Angeles and an ethical supply chain in North America. Priced at $32, the Baby Trash Tee is not just a piece of clothing but a statement of sustainable and responsible fashion. By choosing the Baby Trash Tee, you are opting for a product that cares for the world and its inhabitants.
DREW ORGANIC COTTON-JERSEY T-SHIRT
The Ninety Percent Drew Organic Cotton-Jersey T-shirt is a great option for a classic white tee that embodies a youthful and dynamic aesthetic. Made from GOTS certified organic cotton, this t-shirt is not only comfortable and breathable, but also eco-friendly. The tee features a timeless slim fit with a crewneck, short sleeves, and topstitched hems for a clean and polished look. This versatile piece can be easily dressed up or down, making it a perfect foundation for creating a variety of stylish outfits.
A NEW DAY SHORT SLEEVE T-SHIRT
The A New Day Short Sleeve T-Shirt is a refreshing addition to your everyday top collection. This T-shirt comes in a solid color that allows for easy pairing with a range of looks, significantly increasing its versatility. Fashioned in a regular fit, it features a basic casual crewneck, a design that never goes out of style. The soft and breathable fabric offers cool comfort, making it a great choice for everyday wear. The pullover design adds to the convenience, making the T-shirt easy to wear and take off. Available at Target, this T-shirt is a simple yet stylish choice that can refresh your wardrobe and complement any outfit.
OLD NAVY EVERYWEAR CROP T-SHIRT
If you’re looking for a white tee with a more on-trend silhouette, the Old Navy Everywear Crop T-shirt is a great choice. This cropped style hits right at the waist, creating a youthful and proportional look. Made from a soft and breathable fabric, it’s comfortable for all-day wear. The Everywear Crop T-shirt comes in a classic crewneck design, offering a casual yet polished vibe. Pair it with high-waisted jeans or a skirt for a cute and dynamic outfit.
RE/DONE X HANES THE CLASSIC TEE
The RE/DONE x Hanes The Classic Tee is a timeless piece that embodies the perfect balance between vintage and modern aesthetics. Available in vintage white, this T-shirt offers a classic look that can complement any outfit. Sold by REVOLVE, a well-known online fashion retailer, this T-shirt comes with a 30-day price match guarantee, ensuring that customers get the best value for their money. Moreover, REVOLVE offers free 2-3 day shipping and returns, enhancing the overall shopping experience. The Classic Tee, with its simple yet stylish design, is a testament to the collaboration between RE/DONE and Hanes, two brands known for their quality and style. Whether you’re dressing up or down, this T-shirt is a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
GAP ORGANIC VINTAGE T-SHIRT
The GAP Organic Cotton Vintage T-Shirt is a perfect blend of comfort and sustainability. Made with 100% organically grown cotton, this T-shirt is not just soft and comfortable but also eco-friendly. Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making it a better choice for both people and the environment. The T-shirt features short sleeves and a classic crewneck, offering a timeless design that can easily be paired with any outfit. Available for $17.00, with varying prices between $9.00 and $24.95, this T-shirt also offers value for money. Plus, with an extra 30% off using a code, it’s a great deal for anyone looking to add a sustainable and stylish piece to their wardrobe.
COU COU WHITE ‘THE BABY’ T-SHIRT
The Cou Cou White ‘The Baby’ T-Shirt is a stylish and sustainable choice made from 100% organic cotton. Manufactured in Portugal, this tee is a testament to high-quality European craftsmanship. The T-shirt features a classic crewneck design, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe. It’s available at SSENSE, a leading online platform known for its curated selection of over 500 luxury brands. The T-shirt is GOTS-certified, meaning it meets the stringent standards of the Global Organic Textile Standard, a leading processing standard for textiles made from organic fibers. With free shipping on orders over $300 USD and free returns on all orders, SSENSE makes shopping for this chic and eco-friendly T-shirt a breeze.
SUNSPEL RELAXED-FIT HEAVYWEIGHT T‑SHIRT
The Sunspel Relaxed-Fit Heavyweight T-Shirt is the epitome of luxury and comfort. Made from high-quality Californian, extra-long staple Supima cotton, this T-shirt has been carbon-brushed for an exceptionally soft feel. It offers a relaxed fit with a contemporary wide-trim crew neckline, making it a versatile piece that can be worn on its own or as a layering piece. Perfect to pair with a Twin Pocket Jacket or under a blazer for a smart look, this T-shirt makes an excellent addition to your wardrobe. The heavyweight fabric contributes to its durability and quality, making it a long-lasting investment. With its classic black color, this T-shirt is effortlessly stylish and easy to pair with any outfit.
MADEWELL WHISPER COTTON V-NECK TEE
The Madewell Whisper Cotton V-Neck Tee is a best-selling item known for its light, airy Whisper Cotton material. With an easy slouchy fit and a wide V-neck, this tee offers a relaxed yet stylish look. Its softness and perfect draping make it a wardrobe staple that you can live in and a definite must-share with your friends. The tee has a regular fit and is designed to hit at the high hip or below, making it versatile enough to leave untucked or tucked into your bottoms. The body length from the high point of shoulder is 24 1/4″ (based on size M). Made from cotton, this tee is machine washable for easy care. It’s imported, ensuring a certain level of quality and craftsmanship. You can find it on Madewell’s official website.
ARKET HEAVYWEIGHT T-SHIRT
The ARKET Heavyweight T-Shirt in white is a wardrobe staple, cut from a heavyweight single jersey knit. It features a regular fit with a crew-neck and short sleeves, making it a versatile piece that can be paired with a variety of outfits. The T-shirt has been designed with a two-needle top stitch at the neckline, adding a touch of detail to its simplistic design. It’s composed of 96% Cotton and 4% Elastane, offering a comfortable and flexible fit. Furthermore, it’s made of 96% organic cotton, supporting sustainable fabric choices. This ARKET T-shirt is not just a basic piece of clothing, but a testament to quality and sustainable fashion.
COS THE CLEAN CUT T-SHIRT
The COS The Clean Cut T-Shirt is a versatile classic that serves as a cornerstone of the COS collection. This white T-shirt is hard to overlook due to its premium heavyweight organic-cotton jersey fabric that offers a neat fit with slight definition. The T-shirt is crafted with twin-stitched sleeves, which adds a touch of detail to its clean-cut design. It is available in a regular fit and weighs 290gsm, which speaks to its sturdy and durable nature. The organic cotton used in its production is grown using methods that have a low impact on the environment, making it a sustainable choice. Its versatility is such that it pairs well with jeans, mini skirts, and even leather pants. Your options are limitless with this classic piece.
JUNGMAVEN LOREL TEE
The Jungmaven Lorel Tee is a ‘True Love Tee’ that’s designed to be cherished forever. Named after the founder’s mother, this tee speaks volumes about its special significance. Made from a perfectly weighted hemp blend, it offers a flattering drape that complements any body type. The Lorel Tee is part of the Women’s Collection at jungmaven.com, a brand renowned for its sustainable hemp and hemp/organic cotton blends. All tees from Jungmaven are made in the USA, ensuring quality and supporting local businesses. With its high style, sustainable materials, and meaningful backstory, the Jungmaven Lorel Tee is more than just a T-shirt – it’s a statement of love and sustainability.
MOTHER LIL GOODIE GOODIE T-SHIRT
The Mother Lil Goodie Goodie T-Shirt is a must-have essential crafted from breathable supima cotton. It features a round neck and short sleeves, offering a straight-fit style that is both comfortable and fashionable. The pullover style makes it easy to wear and versatile for various occasions. Made from 100% supima cotton, this T-shirt assures great comfort and durability. It’s machine washable, making it simple to care for. Proudly made in the USA, this T-shirt stands for quality and fine craftsmanship. Whether you’re dressing up for a casual day out or lounging at home, the Mother Lil Goodie Goodie T-Shirt has got you covered.
EVERLANE THE ORGANIC COTTON BOX-CUT TEE
The Everlane Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee is an iconic piece that brings timeless style to your wardrobe. It features a classic crew neckline and easy short sleeves, with a slightly cropped length and a relaxed fit that offers a comfortable yet chic look. The box-cut design gives it a modern edge, making it a versatile piece that can be styled up or down. Made of 100% organic cotton, this tee is not only super breathable but also soft to the touch. It’s a testament to Everlane’s commitment to sustainable fashion and high-quality materials. Whether you’re dressing up for a casual day out or a cozy night in, the Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee is a must-have addition to your wardrobe.
GOLDIE SIGNATURE SLUB TEE
The Goldie Signature Slub Tee is always the right choice for any casual or semi-formal occasion. This quintessential crew-neck tee comes with arm-flattering cap sleeves and a unique vertical railroad-stitch seam at the back. It’s versatile enough to be worn on a day out with your favorite jeans or layered with a tailored blazer for a more formal look. Made from 100% Peruvian pima cotton, this signature slub jersey features a light, silky texture that feels good against the skin. The tee is made in Peru and has a body length of 24 1/2 inches, ensuring a comfortable fit. With its high-quality fabric and versatile design, the Goldie Signature Slub Tee is a practical and stylish addition to any wardrobe.
BUCK MASON SLUB EASY CREWNECK T-SHIRT
The Buck Mason Slub Easy Crewneck T-Shirt is a classic fit short sleeve tee that combines comfort and style. It’s cut from a lightweight slub cotton, offering a soft and comfortable feel against the skin. The T-shirt features a straight hem, which adds to its casual yet tailored look. Its black color gives it a versatile appeal that can be easily paired with various outfits. Whether you’re dressing up for a casual day out or gearing up for a laid-back evening, this Buck Mason tee is a reliable pick. It represents the brand’s commitment to crafting modern American classics that remain in style season after season. One thing is certain with this tee: it offers an easy-going style without compromising on quality.
LANE BRYANT PERFECT SLEEVE CREW-NECK TEE
The Lane Bryant Perfect Sleeve Crew-Neck Tee is a stylish and comfortable addition to any wardrobe. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re stepping out for a casual day or preparing for a cozy evening at home. This tee features a flattering crew-neck design and a perfect sleeve length, offering both comfort and style. It’s available in a wide selection of colors and sizes at LaneBryant.com, making it easy to find the perfect fit for you. The website also offers reviews from other customers, providing you with real feedback about the product. With its combination of style, comfort, and affordability, the Lane Bryant Perfect Sleeve Crew-Neck Tee is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their wardrobe.
ALEX CRANE SUN TEE IN BONE
The Alex Crane Sun Tee in Bone is a stylish and sustainable choice for those who appreciate quality and eco-friendly fashion. This natural linen t-shirt is made with 100% sustainably-grown French linen, promising durability and comfort. It’s knit in Portugal and washed with biodegradable softeners, ensuring the fabric is soft from the first wear. It offers a true-to-size fit. For reference, a model named Basie, who is 6’2″, wears a size L. The neutral bone color lends itself to a range of outfit choices, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe. Whether you’re out for a casual day or enjoying a relaxed evening at home, the Alex Crane Sun Tee in Bone offers a blend of comfort, style, and sustainability.
RE/DONE CLASSIC TEE
The RE/DONE Classic Tee is a must-have for those who appreciate simplicity and quality. This classic tee is made in a signature RE/DONE fit that flatters all body types. It’s crafted from 100% cotton, promising comfort and breathability. What sets it apart is that it’s knitted and sewn in the USA, reflecting the brand’s commitment to domestic production. The tee comes in a variety of designs, including the playful “I Want Candy” variant. No matter your style, there’s a RE/DONE Classic Tee for you. What’s more, RE/DONE offers free global shipping, making this high-quality, USA-made tee an easily accessible addition to your wardrobe.
CONCLUSION
Besides the serious and formal look of white button up shirts, What do you think if you immerse yourself in the comfort and youthfulness of a white t-shirt? With this extensive list of options, you’ve got a great starting point for finding the perfect white t-shirt that injects a youthful and dynamic feel to your wardrobe. Remember, the “best” t-shirt is ultimately the one that flatters your figure and enhances your personal style. So go ahead, take your pick and get ready to elevate your casual look! (find error grammar)
