neutral color wrapping paper

DIY PAPER MACHE PUMPKIN – THE PERFECT FALL CRAFT!

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!

35 BEST FALL GREEN NAIL IDEAS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS

Fall is the perfect time to experiment with rich, earthy tones, and green nails are a stunning way to embrace the season’s beauty. From deep emerald to refreshing sage, there’s a shade of green to suit every style. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or intricate nail art, these 35 fall green nail ideas will inspire your next manicure. Get ready to elevate your nail game and turn heads with these on-trend designs! Let’s dive into the world of green nails and discover the perfect look for you!

Emerald Mermaid

Emerald Mermaid nails are a captivating choice for fall. The deep, luxurious emerald green evokes the enchanting depths of the ocean, while the mermaid scale effect adds a touch of mystical allure. This design perfectly complements the rich and cozy atmosphere of the season, making it a standout choice for those who love a touch of fantasy in their fashion.

Chic Matte Olive

Chic Matte Olive Fall Nails offer a sophisticated and understated look that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. The matte finish lends a velvety texture to the olive green, creating a modern and minimalist aesthetic. This timeless color choice complements a variety of fall outfits and accessories, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Festive Flair

Festive Flair Fall Nails bring a touch of holiday spirit to your fingertips. Incorporating rich jewel tones like emerald and deep green with sparkling gold or silver accents, this design captures the magic of the season. Whether you opt for a full-coverage glitter or delicate foil accents, these nails are sure to turn heads at your holiday gatherings.

Chic Green nails

Festive Flair Fall Nails bring a touch of holiday spirit to your fingertips. Incorporating rich jewel tones like emerald and deep green with sparkling gold or silver accents, this design captures the magic of the season. Whether you opt for a full-coverage glitter or delicate foil accents, these nails are sure to turn heads at your holiday gatherings.

Green French

Green French Fall Nails offer a fresh and modern take on a classic style. By swapping the traditional white tip for a vibrant green, you instantly elevate your manicure for the autumn season. Whether you choose a soft sage or a bold emerald, this design adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any outfit.

Bold Neon

Bold Neon Green Fall Nails are a daring and unexpected choice for the season. This vibrant hue adds a playful and energetic touch to the typically muted autumn palette. While neon green might seem unconventional, it can be surprisingly versatile, pairing well with both dark and light fall outfits. For a truly eye-catching look, consider incorporating neon green into a geometric or abstract nail art design.

Jungle Camo

This look features a variety of Magpie Beauty polishes, combining milky white, dark green, and dark gray for a camouflage-inspired base. Hand-painted white leaves and tiny pieces of gold leaf are added on top to complete the design.

Refreshing Green NAILS

I adore this green fall nail design! The soft, minty green shade is refreshing and unique, making it a standout choice for the season. It’s cool because it pairs beautifully with autumn’s typical warm tones, adding a pop of unexpected color that’s both chic and playful. This design is a must-have for me since it’s versatile enough to match a variety of outfits and occasions, from casual coffee runs to more dressed-up events.

Mountain Tips

Mountain Tips Fall Nails bring the rugged beauty of the outdoors to your fingertips. Featuring a base of soft taupe or cream, these nails are accented with triangular peaks painted in various shades of green. Add a touch of realism with snow-capped peaks using white glitter or shimmer. This design captures the essence of fall’s breathtaking landscapes and is perfect for nature lovers.

Rich Green NAILS

Rich Green Fall Nail Design is a classic choice that exudes elegance and sophistication. Opt for a deep emerald or forest green hue and pair it with a matte finish for a modern twist. To add a touch of luxury, consider incorporating gold or copper foil accents or delicate leaf-inspired nail art. This design is perfect for elevating your fall wardrobe and making a statement.

Snowy Leaves

Snowy Leaves Nail Design captures the magic of winter’s first snowfall on autumn leaves. This enchanting design features a base coat of deep green or burgundy, adorned with delicate leaf shapes outlined in white. For a touch of winter wonderland, add subtle glitter or shimmer to mimic falling snow. This design is a perfect blend of fall and winter, making it a versatile choice for the transitional season.

Bold & Playful NailS

I absolutely love the contrast between the deep brown and vibrant green shades in this nail design; it feels so fresh and unique! The heart accents add a playful touch that really stands out, making it perfect for anyone looking to add some personality to their look. It’s cool because it blends boldness with fun, ideal for elevating my fall style!

Period

Matte yellow-green nails are accented by glossy nude nails with a single green dot. This design is simple yet graphic, and totally chic.

Fresh Green Polka Dot

Fresh Green Polka Dot nails bring a playful and cheerful vibe to the fall season. The classic polka dot pattern gets a modern update with the use of vibrant green polish. This design is perfect for those who want to add a touch of fun and whimsy to their look. Experiment with different sizes and placements of the polka dots to create a unique and personalized manicure.

Black and Green Shimmer

Black and Green Shimmer for Fall Nails is a striking combination that exudes both elegance and edge. The dark, mysterious black provides a perfect base for the shimmering green to pop, creating a captivating contrast. Whether you opt for a gradient effect or a mix of both colors, this design is sure to turn heads and elevate your fall style.

Mystic

Mystic Fall Nails conjure up images of enchanted forests and magical creatures. Incorporating deep jewel tones like emerald and amethyst with holographic or shimmer finishes creates a mesmerizing effect. Consider adding intricate details like moon phases, stars, or celestial bodies to enhance the mystical vibe. These nails are perfect for those who want to add a touch of enchantment to their fall look.

Wintertime Accents

Wintertime Accents for Fall Nails offer a unique and unexpected twist on the traditional autumnal palette. Incorporating frosty white or silver accents onto a base of deep green or burgundy creates a striking contrast that perfectly captures the transition between seasons. This design is perfect for those who love to push the boundaries of nail art and embrace a touch of winter magic in their fall look.

Topographic Tips

Topographic Tips for Fall Nails bring a touch of unexpected adventure to your fingertips. Inspired by nature’s contours, this design features a base color of earthy green or brown adorned with raised lines and peaks in contrasting shades. Create a sense of depth and dimension by adding subtle shadows or glitter accents. These nails are perfect for the outdoorsy and adventurous spirit.

Simple Circles

Simple Circles for Fall Nails offer a minimalist yet stylish look. By placing perfectly aligned circles in various sizes and shades of green on a neutral base, you create a modern and sophisticated design. This understated elegance is perfect for those who prefer a subtle touch of nail art while still embracing the fall trends. Experiment with different circle placements and color combinations to create a unique and personalized manicure.

Green Marble

Green Marble for Fall Nails adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the season. The intricate swirls and veins of green create a mesmerizing effect that mimics the natural beauty of stone. Whether you opt for a classic white and green combination or experiment with different shades of green, this design exudes elegance and style. Consider adding gold or silver accents to elevate the look even further.

Feeling Lucky

Feeling Lucky Fall Nails bring a touch of playful charm to the season. Incorporate four-leaf clover motifs, horseshoe shapes, or lucky number sevens into a base of rich green or gold polish. For an extra touch of luck, add a dash of glitter or shimmer to capture the magic of the season. These nails are perfect for spreading joy and positivity throughout the fall months.

Wrapped Present

Wrapped Present Fall Nails add a touch of festive cheer to your fingertips. Imagine each nail as a miniature gift, wrapped in a variety of green shades and adorned with tiny bows or ribbons. For a playful touch, add a holographic or glitter accent to mimic wrapping paper shimmer. This design is perfect for the holiday season and brings a sense of excitement to your overall look.

Festive Shimmer

Festive Shimmer Fall Nails capture the magic of the season with a dazzling display of sparkle. A base coat of deep green or burgundy serves as the perfect canvas for a layer of shimmering gold or silver glitter. For added dimension, consider incorporating holographic flakes or iridescent pigments. These nails are perfect for holiday parties and special occasions, adding a touch of glamour to any outfit.

Floral Tips

Floral Tips for Fall Nails bring a touch of romantic elegance to the season. Instead of bright summer blooms, opt for delicate and muted floral patterns featuring autumnal colors like deep reds, burnt oranges, and golds. Place these floral accents on just the tips of your nails for a subtle yet stylish look. Consider adding a touch of shimmer or glitter to the flower centers for a touch of festive flair.

Green Nudes

Green Nudes for Fall Nails offer a sophisticated and understated look that perfectly complements the autumnal season. These muted shades of green, ranging from sage to olive, create a harmonious blend of warmth and coolness. Whether you prefer a matte or glossy finish, these neutral tones effortlessly elevate your manicure while remaining effortlessly chic. Perfect for any occasion, green nudes are a versatile choice that seamlessly transitions from day to night.

Simple Plaid

Simple Plaid for Fall Nails brings a touch of classic charm to the season. This timeless pattern, characterized by intersecting lines, is a perfect way to embrace autumnal style. Opt for a color palette of muted greens, browns, and creams for a traditional look, or experiment with bolder hues for a modern twist. Keep the plaid design simple and understated for a chic and sophisticated finish.

Metallic Moss

Metallic Moss for Fall Nails offers a modern and luxurious take on the classic green manicure. This shimmering shade combines the earthy tones of moss with a metallic finish, creating a captivating and eye-catching effect. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to add a touch of glamour to their fall wardrobe. Pair it with neutral tones or darker shades for a sophisticated and polished look.

Like Wild

Like Wild Fall Nails embrace the untamed beauty of the season. Imagine a mesmerizing blend of deep forest greens, fiery oranges, and earthy browns, swirled together to create a chaotic yet captivating design. Add a touch of gold or copper foil for a touch of luxury. These nails are a bold statement that captures the raw energy of autumn.

Old Money

Old Money Nails have always been an inspiration that evokes style and wealth. What would it be like to design fall green nails in the old money style? Think muted luxury with a touch of autumnal warmth. Imagine a base of creamy white or soft beige, accented with delicate gold foil or a subtle tortoiseshell pattern. For a touch of fall, incorporate deep burgundy or forest green into the design, perhaps as a thin line or a small accent. The overall look should be refined, understated, and effortlessly chic. Would you like to explore other nail ideas?

Gold Leaf

Gold leaf green nails are perfect for fall, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your look. The rich green base color, combined with the shimmering gold leaf accents, captures the essence of the autumn season beautifully. This chic and eye-catching design is ideal for any occasion, making your nails a standout accessory.

French Vines

French vines green nails are a stunning choice for fall, blending classic elegance with a seasonal twist. The deep green base color complements the intricate vine designs, creating a look that’s both sophisticated and nature-inspired. This design is perfect for adding a touch of artistry to your autumn wardrobe, making your nails a true statement piece.

Green Velvet

Green velvet nails are a luxurious choice for fall, offering a rich and opulent look. The deep green shade, reminiscent of lush velvet fabric, exudes elegance and sophistication. This design is perfect for adding a touch of glamour to your autumn style, making your nails a standout accessory.

Hint of Sparkle

Hint of sparkle green nails are a perfect choice for fall, adding a touch of glimmer to your seasonal look. The rich green base color is beautifully accented with subtle sparkles, creating a design that’s both elegant and eye-catching. This style effortlessly elevates your autumn wardrobe, making your nails a dazzling accessory for any occasion.

Groovy Greens

Groovy greens are an exciting choice for fall nail designs, bringing a retro vibe to your look. The mix of vibrant and earthy green shades creates a playful and dynamic design that’s perfect for the season. This style adds a fun twist to your autumn wardrobe, making your nails a lively and eye-catching feature.

Floating in Space

Floating in Space nails are a celestial-inspired choice for fall, capturing the mystery and beauty of the cosmos. The design features a dark, starry base with swirling nebula patterns and tiny glittering accents that mimic distant stars. This look adds a touch of cosmic elegance to your autumn style, making your nails an otherworldly statement.

CONCLUSION

With countless ways to incorporate green into your fall manicure, the possibilities are truly endless. From classic and elegant to bold and daring, there’s a green nail design to suit every style and personality. So, embrace the beauty of the season and let your nails be a reflection of your unique flair. Experiment with different shades, textures, and nail art techniques to create a look that’s truly yours. Happy fall and happy nail painting!