I am not a DIYer. I'm aware that 90% of Pinterest articles start out like that, and then you're directed to countless images of perfectly created arts and crafts projects. However, that really isn't me. We're talking about someone who made a B in high school art and hasn't tackled a real craft project since then. I'm much more of a GSETDIFYer (Get someone else to do it for you). That doesn't roll off the tongue like DIY does, but hey, that's my reality.
Normally Pinterest crafts don't stop me in my tracks, but I saw these adorable punkins and talked Aus into making them with me. I love them for their bright colors and festiveness, but mainly for the sarcasm that oozes out of each one. I was a little apprehensive, but they turned out so cute!
Naturally, the ones on Pinterest look better than mine, but I long ago resigned myself to the fact that I'll never be as perfect as Pinterest. However, rest assured, these are easy for everyone to make, and you can follow my shortcuts for the truly craft impaired.
Here's What You'll Need (and the alternatives for when the store is out)
6 Plastic Pumpkins: We went plastic because we want to be able to reuse these decorations (DIY is a time sucker). Also, make sure to get a variety of sizes. It took us forever to find what we wanted (everything was either too expensive or styrofoam), but we eventually lucked out at Target, of course. Side note: You only need six pumpkins if you want to do all of the sayings. We only got four because we don't really have room for six.
Alphabet Stickers: My project inspiration recommends using tattoo paper and printing out the sayings. We couldn't find tattoo paper at any store in Charlotte, so we decided to go with 1 inch letter stickers. They were easy to move around and replace, and much easier to find. Also, they come in fun colors! If you have a lot of confidence and great handwriting, you can even write the sayings yourself.
- Spray Paint: Choose any color your little heart desires, but keep in mind your home decor. I painted two of ours pale pink and teal only to remember that I don't actually live in CandyLand.
- Sandpaper or a Rough Brush: Aus insisted on this because it would help the paint stick. I'm apprehensive, but you can't come between a man and his project.
Here's How To Do It
- Take your sandpaper or rough brush and lightly scrub the outside of your pumpkin. This will help clean the surface and make sure the paint sticks properly (according to Austin).
This pumpkin may look beautiful and smooth, but it needed meticulous scrubbing to get it just right for painting.
- Paint the entire pumpkin (including the stem for a finished look) and let it dry. Make sure you give it a few solid coats. You could use a primer if you want to, but I didn't find it necessary. As long as you put on enough coats, you should be set.
It doesn't really matter which brand of spray paint you buy, but I couldn't resist the flat black Valspar. Also, we set our pumpkins up on tile and wood to make sure we didn't coat the road in vibrant colors. The tile was only necessary because the board was dirty, and you don't want dirt and grime sticking to your fresh paint.
The black and gold pumpkins match perfectly with our decor. The teal and pink don't match anything, but hey, they're cute!
- Once your pumpkins are dry, start attaching the letters, applying the tattoo paper or writing your puns. If you use the alphabet stickers like I did, make sure you angle the letters with the curve of the pumpkin.
- Take some photos and post them on Instagram because did you really finish a DIY project if you don't brag about it to all of your friends?? Also, make sure you find the perfect place to display your creations! Pro tip: They'll last longer if you keep them indoors.
What did I tell you? Black and gold pumpkins are holiday-appropriate and match our decor perfectly!
Put your punkins on your front stairs and make sure that all of your guests appreciate your hard work!
Puns for Your Punkins
Witch Better Have My Candy
Trick or Treat Yo' Self
Creep It Real
If You've Got It Haunt It
Bow Down Witches
I'm Here For The Boos
Manners Moral: Embrace the holiday spirit and complete this DIY project for some sassy and chic Halloween decor. You won't regret it, and all of your friends will think you're the wittiest person around!