PUMPKIN STRING ART

This pumpkin string art is absolutely gorgeous! It’s a fun, relaxing craft that’s perfect for fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any autumn decor. Just use our free printable template to create these stunning string art pieces! They’re easy to make and look fantastic displayed on the mantel.

DIY PUMPKIN STRING ART

Create your own pumpkin string art using our FREE printable template! It’s a fun and easy fall craft that looks fantastic on display.

Materials:

  • Free Printable Pumpkin String Art Template
  • 3/4-inch thick stained wood (approx. 10 x 10 inches)
  • Common nails (3/4 to 1 inch long)
  • 3 skeins of pumpkin orange embroidery thread
  • 1 skein of brown embroidery thread
  • 2 skeins of dark orange embroidery thread

Equipment:

  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • Hammer

Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your SuppliesCollect all the materials and tools you’ll need for your pumpkin string art project.

Step 2: Attach the Template to the Wood
Print the free pumpkin string art template, then cut around the shape, leaving a small border outside the outline.

Secure the pumpkin template to the center of your wood board with tape to hold it in place. You can use plain wood or, for added effect, stain the wood beforehand as we did.

Step 3: Add Nails and Remove the Template
Hammer nails along the outline of the pumpkin, leaving each nail sticking out about 1/2 inch above the wood. If using the template, place nails at the marked spots; otherwise, space them about 1/2 to 3/4 inch apart for an even look. Once done, carefully remove the paper template.

Continue placing nails around the outer edge of the pumpkin shape and along the inner lines to define the details. Once finished, check that the nails are straight and evenly spaced, making any final adjustments as needed.

Tear away the pumpkin template from the board, removing as much of the paper as you can. For any small bits left behind, use tweezers to carefully pull them out.

Step 4: Attach the String to the Nails
Begin by tying the pumpkin orange embroidery floss to one of the nails with a double knot, leaving a 1 to 2-inch tail of string at the end.

Begin weaving the string up one section of the pumpkin, going from nail to nail in a zig zag pattern.

As you reach the top of the pumpkin, retrace your steps by coming back down the same section in the opposite direction.

Repeat the process by overlapping the same section with the thread 2 to 3 more times, weaving back and forth at different angles. Once you’ve filled that section, move on to the next one and continue the same technique.

When you run out of thread, tie off the last thread and start a new one.

Continue working section by section until the entire pumpkin is filled. Adjust the string as needed, pushing it down onto the nails to ensure a neat and even appearance.

Tie the brown embroidery thread onto the stem.

Weave the string back and forth across the stem, wrapping it around the nails several times. Once you’re satisfied with the appearance of the stem, cut the string and tie it off securely.

Step 5: Create an Outside Border
Use the darker orange thread to form a border around the pumpkin. Begin by tying the string onto one of the outside nails securely.

As you work along the outside of the pumpkin, wrap the string around each nail to create a straight line along the inside of the nails. We recommend going counterclockwise around the pumpkin. Bring the thread from nail to nail, making a clockwise loop around each one to secure the string in place.

After completing the first round, reverse direction and create a border around the outside of the same nails. Move back around the pumpkin in a clockwise direction, continuing to wrap the thread clockwise around each nail.

Next, add a third layer to the border by filling in the center. Go between the same nails in the opposite direction each time, creating a zigzag pattern that connects the nails and adds depth to the border.

Finally, go back in the opposite direction one last time, zigzagging in the opposite direction.

Once you’ve finished the outside border, cut and tie off the string.

Step 6: Add Borders and Trim Excess String

Create a similar border on the pumpkin stem using the brown thread. Repeat the process of wrapping around each side of the nails and zigzagging between them in both directions. Once you’re satisfied with the look, cut the string and tie it off securely.

Tie on a new piece of darker orange thread at the bottom left and create a border around each inside section of nails. Move on to the next row by wrapping the thread across the bottom nails, continuing the border pattern.

Finish creating borders around the next two ribs of the pumpkin. Tie and cut off the thread when complete.

Trim the excess string, close to the knots you’ve tied.

Your string art pumpkin is complete!

Helpful Tips:

  • Stain or paint the wood before adding the nails for a polished finish.
  • If you’re concerned about hitting your fingers, or if you need to place a nail in a tight spot, use pliers to hold the nail in place while hammering.
  • Hammer the nails on the ground or another stable surface, as your table may shake and move while you work.
  • Choose wood that’s at least 1/2 inch thick, or ideally the same thickness as the nails’ length, to prevent the nails from protruding through the back of the board.

25 BEST CANDY NAIL DESIGNS FOR A PLAYFUL AND CHARMING LOOK

Craving a burst of color and a touch of whimsy? Look no further than candy-colored nail designs. These playful and charming manicures are perfect for adding a pop of sweetness to your style. Whether you’re a fan of classic pastels or bold neon hues, there’s a candy-inspired design to suit your taste.

Get ready to indulge in a sugary sweet nail art experience! In this post, we’ll showcase 25 of the most delightful candy-colored nail designs that will leave you craving more. From candy canes to gummy bears, we’ve got you covered with a variety of adorable and trendy ideas.

VALENTINE’S DAY CANDY NAIL SET

Celebrate love with this Valentine’s Day nail set! Whether you’re enjoying the day with someone special or indulging yourself, these nails are a beautiful way to express your affection.

CANDY CANE WAVES

For a holiday party-worthy manicure that shines, opt for fine glitter nail polishes that catch the light beautifully. The white outline beneath the French tips and between the wavy candy cane lines adds extra definition, highlighting the starry details and making your nails truly stand out.

WONKA CANDY FUN HAND-PAINTED DESIGNS 

These nails showcase whimsical designs inspired by the enchanting world of Willy Wonka. Add some swirly lollipops for an extra sprinkle of magic. We’ll never get enough of hand-painted designs like this!

BEYOND THE BASICS

Not a fan of bright colors? Celebrate the more subtle burgundy and evergreen variations of candy canes instead.

CANDY CORN HALLOWEEN NAIL ART

These nails showcase the classic candy corn colors of orange, yellow, and white, making them perfect for Halloween. Whether you’re trick-or-treating or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, these Halloween nails are a fun way to join in the celebration.

POSTCARD PRETTY

Like an illustrated stamp on a postcard to Santa, these candy cane-outlined nails are a true work of art. Hand-painted mistletoe sprigs and delicate pressed gold leaf provide the perfect finishing touches.

SWEET SPARKLES

Bejeweled nails are a major trend right now, and the sparkling allure of crystals is especially fitting for Christmas. Adorn all your nails with gems arranged in a candy cane shape, or just add this sweet treat to a few accent nails for a festive touch.

PEPPERMINT SWIRLS

Coquette Christmas is a major trend on TikTok, with many videos focusing on decorating trees in soft baby pink and mint. However, we can’t resist the idea of extending this charming aesthetic to nails as well, as shown above.

SMARTIES CANDY RAINBOW NAILS

These nails showcase a vibrant rainbow of colors reminiscent of your favorite Smarties candies. Perfect for summer or anytime you need a boost of brightness!

CANDY CANE REVERSE FRENCH

Think of the reverse French as the trendier sister of the classic style. It’s a fun and easy at-home way to refresh your look, especially when you customize it for the holidays.

NERDS CANDY PRESS ON NAILS

Bright, colorful, and incredibly fun, these nails add a playful touch to your fingertips. These press-on nails are easy to apply and showcase vibrant designs inspired by Nerds candy.

CLASSIC CANDY CANE

Extend the classic candy cane French tip down one side of your nail to complete the curved stick, helping you stand out from the candy cane crowd. The addition of a pistachio mint base adds a fun twist to this festive look.

REESE’S 3D CANDY-THEMED NAIL ART

If you love chocolate and peanut butter, these nails are perfect for you! Featuring the playful letters “Reese’s” in bold orange and brown, they create a fun and unique look. Add some gel polish to keep your designs looking fresh and vibrant.

GLAMMED GOLD

Gold nail art is a timeless staple for any holiday or season. Just look at this luxurious combination of peppermint swirls and snowflakes for proof!

90’S CANDY ACRYLIC NAILS

Feeling nostalgic for the ‘90s and early 2000s? These nails are perfect for anyone who loves retro vibes and ‘90s-inspired treats. All that’s left is to add some body glitter for an extra touch of sparkle!

WRAPPING PAPER

This adorable winter greenery and candy cane art is so charming that it looks like it should be printed on wrapping paper. The greens add an earthy touch, softening the boldness of the red for a beautifully balanced look.

PERFECTLY PINK

Don’t get it twisted—pink polish isn’t just for Valentine’s Day! This rosy hue serves as the perfect backdrop for snowy whites and vibrant reds.

DUMDUMS CANDY LONG NAILS

Take a trip down memory lane with these nails that embody the essence of your favorite lollipop, featuring bold colors and playful designs. They’re perfect for anyone who loves a nostalgic twist!

CHRISTMAS COLLAGE

You don’t need a steady hand to achieve this detailed look! Just grab some nail decals—our favorite is Olive & June’s Christmas Stickers—and use tweezers to apply them in a fun, collage-like fashion.

COLORFUL CANDY COFFIN NAILS

Bold, bright, and beautiful—these nails are designed to make a statement! Featuring long, tapered French tips in a rainbow of candy-inspired colors, they’re undoubtedly one of the hottest beauty trends of the summer.

RED RIBBONS

For an abstract twist on candy canes, draw inspiration from the bow trend by painting free-form ribbons over a classic French tip. The result? A look that’s so chic!

PEPPERMINT PARADISE

Elevate the peppermint theme with candy apple and mint-swirled accent nails, paired with a subtler, thick French tip. This simpler look is super easy to recreate at home—just use a toothpick or mini brush to swoop red polish over a pastel green base.

MISMATCHED MANI

This playful, eclectic look evokes the charm of vintage Christmas tree ornaments. To ensure a cohesive design, stick to a color palette—such as the classic reds and whites of a candy cane.

ICED BLUE

Once Christmas arrives, other colors often get overlooked. However, this icy glitter blue and matte lavender look inspires us to incorporate some winter nail art before scheduling our holiday manicure session.

PASTEL CANDY GEL NAILS

Who says candy isn’t just for kids? These nails embrace a trend that blends sophistication with a playful touch.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the world of candy nail designs offers a delightful and playful way to express your unique style. From sweet and colorful hues to intricate candy-inspired patterns, there’s a design to suit every personality. Whether you’re a fan of classic candy or embrace modern trends, these 25 designs provide a wealth of inspiration for creating a charming and eye-catching manicure. So, indulge your sweet tooth and let your nails do the talking with a fun and fabulous candy-themed design.