Painting pumpkins instead of carving them has several perks. Painted pumpkins last longer than carved ones. There are no sharp objects to worry about. Plus, you can be as creative as you want to be with glitter, stickers, or whatever else your inner artist desires!

Pick a Pumpkin
The perfect painting pumpkin has a smooth, even surface. Be sure to choose one without bruises, scratches, and lumps. Unless lumpy is the look you’re going for, of course. Great painting pumpkin varieties include Baby Pam, Sugar Pie, Lumina, or Cotton Candy. 

Clean Your Pumpkin
Use a damp cloth or paper towel to gently remove dirt and grime from the pumpkin. Avoid items like rough scrubbing pads as this can damage your pumpkin’s skin and potentially bruise it. Opt for a soft cloth to thoroughly dry your pumpkin and be sure to keep the stem area dry. A wet stem or blossom (the bottom of your pumpkin) can cause your pumpkin to rot. 

Art It Up!
When it comes to pumpkin painting, the design options are endless! Stencils and stickers are easy options for younger kids while older painters might like to take on more intricate designs. 

Painting Tools
Acrylic paint is a great option for painting pumpkins as it dries quickly and allows you to paint over the first layer in a short time period. Go-to painting tools include cheap paint brushes, cotton swabs, sponges, and cotton balls. A damp cloth works great for wiping away any mistakes.

Add Some Pizazz
Make your pumpkin shine with fun embellishments like glitter, sequins, pom poms, or rhinestones. Add googly eyes to create faces! Incorporate glow-in-the-dark paint to make your pumpkin stand out at night!

Visit us on Pinterest for fun pumpkin carving ideas!