Pumpkins are the quintessential symbol of fall and one of my favorite elements to decorate with. But I also live in the South, which means pumpkins put out too early can rot away in the heat. So, upcycling ideas for fall pumpkins like these are a great way to decorate, regardless of how warm it still is outside.
Fabric Pumpkins
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Fabric pumpkins are like potato chips- once you have one, you gotta have another. And making them is surprisingly easy– whether you use bandanas, flannel, velvet, or even an old sweater. In fact, any fabric you have on hand will likely suffice.
Painted Glass Bottles
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Fall decor straight from the recycle bin is about as frugal and thrifty as it gets! These bourbon bottles were given a “gourd-geous” makeover with paint to look like fall pumpkins.
Boho Basket Pumpkin
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Depending on the shape, some wicker baskets are perfect for upcycling into pumpkins for fall decorating. This one was particularly well-suited for the task and was upcycled into a “gourd-geous” Boho pumpkin with the help of some all-natural craft supplies.
Stained Glass Pumpkins
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Clear glass pumpkins are easy to find at home/craft stores and even your local thrift stores. But transforming them into stained glass pumpkins is not only fun and easy, but makes them quite magical at night.
Straw Trivet Pumpkins
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
With woven and rattan pumpkins being all the rage this year, it’s no surprise that ideas for upcycled versions are making their way online. This one repurposes vintage straw trivets into quirky woven pumpkins for fresh boho decor.
Fall Pumpkins from Furniture Feet
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Certain furniture feet, like bun feet, are already ridged and rounded, which makes them easy candidates for fall upcycling! A little color and the perfect faux stem and you’ve got a wooden pumpkin that’s positively adorable.
Picture Frame Pumpkin
Image credit: Organized Clutter.
A vintage oval frame is always a fun find at thrift stores and yard sales. And it doesn’t have to hold a photo- look how cute it can be as a pumpkin and fall chalkboard sign!
Decorating a Toy Truck
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Decorating toy trucks, especially of the vintage variety, has been super trendy for the past few years. And while it’s often associated with Christmas decorations, a fall version with mini pumpkins like this is just as cute.
Fall Pumpkins from Embroidery Hoops
Image credit: Dukes and Duchesses.
One of the best things about embroidery hoops is that you can craft with them in ways that have NOTHING to do with embroidery. And these fall pumpkins are a perfect example of that!
Coastal Pumpkins
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Decorating faux pumpkins from the craft store is a great way to personalize them to your style (or perhaps make them look more realistic). This version, however, puts a coastal spin on things by tying fishing net around the entire pumpkin!
Cake Dome for Fall Parties
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
A large wooden bowl from the thrift store is now a pumpkin-shaped cake dome, thanks to some upcycling magic. Not only is it adorable at your fall parties, but it’ll protect your cupcakes from insects (and rogue fingers seeking a taste of frosting).
Fall Pumpkins from Wooden Trays
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Small wooden trays and shallow bowls that have handles are ideal pieces to transform into pumpkins, aren’t they? Those short handles are like built-in stems for a quick makeover that results in something charming AND functional.
Fall Pumpkin Art
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
A ready-made burlap canvas from the craft store can be decorated in any number of ways. But for Fall, a fuzzy flannel pumpkin from an old shirt is just delightful for your wall or on a display easel.
The tutorial for this project can be found in my book, “Crafting with Flannel”.
Vintage Tennis Rackets
Image credit: Dukes and Duchesses.
Vintage wooden tennis rackets and fall decorating aren’t normally found in the same sentence or train of thought. But we all stand corrected because a racket head can be upcycled into an unexpected and quirky pumpkin like this.
Fall Pumpkins from a Quilt
Image credit: Petticoat Junktion.
Some vintage quilts stand the test of time and still look fabulous. But others start falling apart, becoming “cutter quilts” for any number of craft projects. And in this case, fall pumpkins are the result!
Fall Pumpkins to Upcycle
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
There are just so many upcycling ideas out there for making fall pumpkins. I always say, “Anything can become a pumpkin if you try hard and believe in yourself”. And while it might be a little cheeky, it’s not exactly a lie.
Craft on!
S
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Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
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