Ingredients

Materials Needed

plaster
balloon
thick string
water bottle
self-hardening clay
gold leaf
spray paint
We recommend:
For plaster for crafting:
PACON PAC52720 Plaster Craft, White
5
(5) PACON PAC52720 Plaster Craft, White $97.26 View details 12 Rolls Plaster of Paris Strips for Crafts, 4”x 180” Plaster Cloth Rolls, Plaster Strips for Craft Projects, Mask Making, Belly Casts, Body Molds - 4In x 15Ft/ 5Yd
5
(2) 12 Rolls Plaster of Paris Strips for Crafts, 4”x 180” Plaster Cloth Rolls, Plaster Strips for Craft Projects, Mask Making, Belly Casts, Body Molds - 4In x 15Ft/ 5Yd $22.99 View details Pink Plaster - Plaster of Paris for Crafts Hand Mold Casting Powder, Gypsum Powder, Just Add Water - Plaster Powder (Pink, 16 Ounces)
5
(6) Pink Plaster - Plaster of Paris for Crafts Hand Mold Casting Powder, Gypsum Powder, Just Add Water - Plaster Powder (Pink, 16 Ounces) $16.99 View details
For balloons for crafting:
100Pcs clear 260 Balloons Clear Long Skinny Latex Balloon for Animal Ballons, Premium Quality Balloons for Beginners Baloons Making Kid's Carnivals Party Decoartion
4.7
(7,517) 100Pcs clear 260 Balloons Clear Long Skinny Latex Balloon for Animal Ballons, Premium Quality Balloons for Beginners Baloons Making Kid's Carnivals Party Decoartion $6.59 View details Large Clear Balloons for Stuffing - 20Pack Big Extra Wide Mouth 30 26 inch Bobo Balloons for Stuffing, Bulk Transparent Balloon For Valentine's Day Birthday Baby Showers Prom Party Decorations
5
(6) Large Clear Balloons for Stuffing - 20Pack Big Extra Wide Mouth 30 26 inch Bobo Balloons for Stuffing, Bulk Transparent Balloon For Valentine's Day Birthday Baby Showers Prom Party Decorations $14.99 View details 6Pcs Sandwich Food Balloons Great for Breakfast & Brunch Party/Realistic Food Themed Party Supplies/BBQ Picnic Party Decoration/Fast Food Snacks Baby Shower Birthday Supplies/Funny Food Themed Balloon
5
(2) 6Pcs Sandwich Food Balloons Great for Breakfast & Brunch Party/Realistic Food Themed Party Supplies/BBQ Picnic Party Decoration/Fast Food Snacks Baby Shower Birthday Supplies/Funny Food Themed Balloon $12.99 View details
For thick string for crafts:
Prime Regency Wraps Butchers Cooking Twine, Heavy Duty, 500ft,16 Ply, 2.4mm, Cotton Kitchen String for Turkey Trussing, Meat Prep, Crafting, Food-Safe, Natural, Pack of 1
4.8
(38,408) Regency Wraps Butchers Cooking Twine, Heavy Duty, 500ft,16 Ply, 2.4mm, Cotton Kitchen String for Turkey Trussing, Meat Prep, Crafting, Food-Safe, Natural, Pack of 1 $6.75 View details Prime KINGLAKE Natural Jute Twine String 328 Feet Best Arts Crafts Gift Wrapping Twine Christmas Twine Durable Packing String
4.7
(26,801) KINGLAKE Natural Jute Twine String 328 Feet Best Arts Crafts Gift Wrapping Twine Christmas Twine Durable Packing String $4.99 View details Tenn Well Natural Jute Twine, 500 Feet Long Brown Twine String Rope for Crafts, Gift Wrapping, Gardening, Bouquets, Holiday Decorations
4.7
(11,617) Tenn Well Natural Jute Twine, 500 Feet Long Brown Twine String Rope for Crafts, Gift Wrapping, Gardening, Bouquets, Holiday Decorations $5.99 View details
For water bottles for crafts:
Prime Otis Classic Swing Top Glass Bottles - Set of 6, 16oz w/Marker & Labels - Clear Bottle with Caps for Juice, Water, Kombucha, Wine, Beer Brewing, Kefir Milk or Eggnog
4.7
(11,887) Otis Classic Swing Top Glass Bottles - Set of 6, 16oz w/Marker & Labels - Clear Bottle with Caps for Juice, Water, Kombucha, Wine, Beer Brewing, Kefir Milk or Eggnog $25.89 View details 72 Pcs Reusable Water Bottles Bulk 20 oz Squeeze Plastic Sports Water Bottles with Nylon Strap Leak Proof Blank DIY Cups for Vbs Back School Operation Christmas Gifts Giveaways
4.1
(64) 72 Pcs Reusable Water Bottles Bulk 20 oz Squeeze Plastic Sports Water Bottles with Nylon Strap Leak Proof Blank DIY Cups for Vbs Back School Operation Christmas Gifts Giveaways $113.99 View details Honeydak 24 Pcs Empty Sensory Bottles Bulk with Black Lids 12 oz / 350 ml Clear Plastic Reusable Leakproof Juice Bottles Drink Container for Sensory Crafts Handmade Beverages Storage(Square)
5
(3) Honeydak 24 Pcs Empty Sensory Bottles Bulk with Black Lids 12 oz / 350 ml Clear Plastic Reusable Leakproof Juice Bottles Drink Container for Sensory Crafts Handmade Beverages Storage(Square) $26.99 $32.99 View details
For self-hardening clay:
Air-Hardening Modeling Clay, 2.2 Lb. Block, White Color (387500)
4.6
(66,350) Air-Hardening Modeling Clay, 2.2 Lb. Block, White Color (387500) $11.99 View details CiaraQ Polymer Clay-Oven Baked Modeling Clay with Sculpting Tools, 24 Colors, 1.2 lbs, Great for Children and Artists.
4.5
(11,212) CiaraQ Polymer Clay-Oven Baked Modeling Clay with Sculpting Tools, 24 Colors, 1.2 lbs, Great for Children and Artists. $9.99 $11.99 View details Crayola Modeling Clay in Bold Colors, 2lbs, Gift for Kids, Ages 4 & Up
4.6
(5,834) Crayola Modeling Clay in Bold Colors, 2lbs, Gift for Kids, Ages 4 & Up $11.99 View details
For gold leaf for crafting:
Barnabas Blattgold Gold Leaf - 24K Real Gold [10 Sheets, 3.1 inches] - Loose Sheets for Painting, Arts and Crafts
4.6
(599) Barnabas Blattgold Gold Leaf - 24K Real Gold [10 Sheets, 3.1 inches] - Loose Sheets for Painting, Arts and Crafts $41.54 View details Bememo 100 Pcs Gold Leaf Sheets Imitation Gold Foil Paper Sheets for Arts, Gilding Crafting, Painting, Picture Frames, Projects, Furniture Decoration, 5.5" x 5.5"
4.6
(8,387) Bememo 100 Pcs Gold Leaf Sheets Imitation Gold Foil Paper Sheets for Arts, Gilding Crafting, Painting, Picture Frames, Projects, Furniture Decoration, 5.5" x 5.5" $5.99 View details Gilding Adhesive Set, TUFINEIN 3.53oz/100ml Water Based Adhesive and Varnish, Gold Leaf and Champagne Gold Foil Gilding Kit, Furniture & Crafts Decoration, Art Painting, DIY Decorative Painting
4.8
(60) Gilding Adhesive Set, TUFINEIN 3.53oz/100ml Water Based Adhesive and Varnish, Gold Leaf and Champagne Gold Foil Gilding Kit, Furniture & Crafts Decoration, Art Painting, DIY Decorative Painting $17.99 $18.99 View details
For spray paint for crafts:
best seller Rust-Oleum 331174 Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint, 12 oz, High Gloss Prickly Pear
4.7
(87,456) Rust-Oleum 331174 Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint, 12 oz, High Gloss Prickly Pear $13.19 View details Krylon K01309 Gallery Series Artist and Clear Coatings Aerosol, 11-Ounce, UV-Resistant Matte Spray Paint, 11 ounce, 11 Oz
4.6
(30,672) Krylon K01309 Gallery Series Artist and Clear Coatings Aerosol, 11-Ounce, UV-Resistant Matte Spray Paint, 11 ounce, 11 Oz $14.99 View details Krylon K05516007 COLORmaxx Spray Paint and Primer for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Gloss Dover White , 12 Ounce (Pack of 1)
4.6
(35,756) Krylon K05516007 COLORmaxx Spray Paint and Primer for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Gloss Dover White , 12 Ounce (Pack of 1) $14.26 $14.97 View details

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: Prepare the Balloon

Begin by inflating a *balloon* to your desired pumpkin size. Make sure it is fully inflated and tied securely. This will serve as the base shape for your decorative pumpkin.

Once inflated, place the balloon in a *stable position*, using a water bottle if necessary for support.

Step 2

Step 2: Mix Plaster

In a mixing bowl, combine *plaster* according to package instructions. You will need enough to coat the balloon thoroughly.

When mixing, ensure there are *no lumps*, as a smooth consistency will provide better results when applied.

Step 3

Step 3: Coat the Balloon

Using your hands or a spatula, apply the mixed *plaster* over the entire surface of the balloon. Aim for an even layer, about 1 to 2 centimeters thick (approximately 0.5 to 1 inch).

Allow the plaster to dry completely, which may take several hours depending on the thickness. The plaster will harden into a rigid shell.

Step 4

Step 4: Carefully Remove the Balloon

Once dry, gently *pop the balloon* and peel it away from the hard shell. Take care to avoid breaking the plaster.

You should be left with a hollow pumpkin shape ready for decoration.

Step 5

Step 5: Decorate the Pumpkin

Now comes the fun part! Use *self-hardening clay* to create accents like a stem or leaves, attaching them to the top of your pumpkin.

If desired, apply *gold leaf* to give your pumpkin a luxurious appearance. Finish the decoration by using *spray paint* to give it color.

Step 6

Step 6: Final Touches

Once everything has dried, your decorative pumpkin is ready to be displayed! Place it as a centerpiece for fall festivities or use it to enhance your Halloween decor.

How do you like the result? Share your creations and enjoy the beautiful autumn season!

Servings

Once your pumpkin decoration is complete, it’s time to showcase your masterpiece! 🎉 Here are some serving suggestions to make it shine:

Centerpiece Wonder: Position your pumpkin in the middle of your dining or coffee table. Surround it with some colorful fall leaves or small gourds to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. 🍂

Window Display: Place your pumpkin on a windowsill where it can catch the sunlight. This will highlight its colors and draw attention from anyone passing by. 🌞

Autumn Events: If you're hosting any fall gatherings, use your pumpkins as table decorations or conversation starters. These unique pieces will surely spark joy and admiration! 🍁

Equipment

Alabaster

This will be the base of your pumpkin. Make sure to choose a high-quality alabaster that sets well and is easy to mold.

Balloon

A sturdy balloon will serve as the shape for your pumpkin. Opt for a larger size for a more dramatic effect.

We recommend:
KatchOn, Giant One Donut Balloon - 40 Inch | Donut 1 Balloon for First Birthday | Sweet One Party Decorations | Number 1 Balloon, | Anniversary Decorations Supplies
4.5
(14,872) KatchOn, Giant One Donut Balloon - 40 Inch | Donut 1 Balloon for First Birthday | Sweet One Party Decorations | Number 1 Balloon, | Anniversary Decorations Supplies $6.99 View details 6Pcs Sandwich Food Balloons Great for Breakfast & Brunch Party/Realistic Food Themed Party Supplies/BBQ Picnic Party Decoration/Fast Food Snacks Baby Shower Birthday Supplies/Funny Food Themed Balloon
5
(2) 6Pcs Sandwich Food Balloons Great for Breakfast & Brunch Party/Realistic Food Themed Party Supplies/BBQ Picnic Party Decoration/Fast Food Snacks Baby Shower Birthday Supplies/Funny Food Themed Balloon $12.99 View details Chef Hat Balloons 4Pcs 25Inch Lets Cook Hat Balloons for Cooking Theme Party Decorations Chef Birthday Decorations Happy Father's Day Decorations
5
(1) Chef Hat Balloons 4Pcs 25Inch Lets Cook Hat Balloons for Cooking Theme Party Decorations Chef Birthday Decorations Happy Father's Day Decorations $12.99 View details
Thick Thread

This will be used to tie and secure your balloon. Choose a durable material, so it holds strong as the project progresses.

We recommend:
Prime Regency Wraps Butchers Cooking Twine, Heavy Duty, 500ft,16 Ply, 2.4mm, Cotton Kitchen String for Turkey Trussing, Meat Prep, Crafting, Food-Safe, Natural, Pack of 1
4.8
(38,408) Regency Wraps Butchers Cooking Twine, Heavy Duty, 500ft,16 Ply, 2.4mm, Cotton Kitchen String for Turkey Trussing, Meat Prep, Crafting, Food-Safe, Natural, Pack of 1 $6.75 View details Prime KINGLAKE Natural Jute Twine String 328 Feet Best Arts Crafts Gift Wrapping Twine Christmas Twine Durable Packing String
4.7
(26,801) KINGLAKE Natural Jute Twine String 328 Feet Best Arts Crafts Gift Wrapping Twine Christmas Twine Durable Packing String $4.99 View details Mandala Crafts Bonded Nylon Thread White Heavy Duty Sewing Threads - 1500 YDs Size 69 210D T70 Tex 70 Thread for Leather Jeans Weaving Outdoor Marine Upholstery Threads
4.6
(5,448) Mandala Crafts Bonded Nylon Thread White Heavy Duty Sewing Threads - 1500 YDs Size 69 210D T70 Tex 70 Thread for Leather Jeans Weaving Outdoor Marine Upholstery Threads $12.99 View details
Water Bottle

A simple water bottle will help to weigh down your balloon, ensuring it stays put while you work on your decoration.

We recommend:
Prime Chocolate Spray Gun 500W - Spray Gun for Cakes-Cake Decorating Kit with 3 Pure Copper Nozzle(1.3mm+1.8mm+2.6mm),Chocolate Decoration for Bakery/Home Baking
5
(1) Chocolate Spray Gun 500W - Spray Gun for Cakes-Cake Decorating Kit with 3 Pure Copper Nozzle(1.3mm+1.8mm+2.6mm),Chocolate Decoration for Bakery/Home Baking $101.99 View details Hydracy Water Bottle with Time Marker -Large BPA Free Water Bottle & No Sweat Sleeve -Leak Proof Gym Bottle with Fruit Infuser Strainer & Times to Drink -Ideal for Fitness Sports & Outdoors
4.6
(31,952) Hydracy Water Bottle with Time Marker -Large BPA Free Water Bottle & No Sweat Sleeve -Leak Proof Gym Bottle with Fruit Infuser Strainer & Times to Drink -Ideal for Fitness Sports & Outdoors $21.99 View details McCormick Culinary Red Food Coloring, 32 fl oz - One 32 Fluid Ounce Bottle of Red Food Dye With Rich Red Color Perfect for Red Velvet Cakes, Frosting, Icing, Cookies and More (Pack of 2)
4.8
(5,831) McCormick Culinary Red Food Coloring, 32 fl oz - One 32 Fluid Ounce Bottle of Red Food Dye With Rich Red Color Perfect for Red Velvet Cakes, Frosting, Icing, Cookies and More (Pack of 2) $27.34 $30.74 View details
Self-hardening Clay

This is essential for shaping the pumpkin's texture. It's easy to work with and doesn't require baking!

We recommend:
Air-Hardening Modeling Clay, 2.2 Lb. Block, White Color (387500)
4.6
(66,350) Air-Hardening Modeling Clay, 2.2 Lb. Block, White Color (387500) $11.99 View details CiaraQ Polymer Clay-Oven Baked Modeling Clay with Sculpting Tools, 24 Colors, 1.2 lbs, Great for Children and Artists.
4.5
(11,212) CiaraQ Polymer Clay-Oven Baked Modeling Clay with Sculpting Tools, 24 Colors, 1.2 lbs, Great for Children and Artists. $9.99 $11.99 View details Crayola Modeling Clay in Bold Colors, 2lbs, Gift for Kids, Ages 4 & Up
4.6
(5,834) Crayola Modeling Clay in Bold Colors, 2lbs, Gift for Kids, Ages 4 & Up $11.99 View details
Gold Leaf

Add a touch of glamour with gold leaf, which will give your pumpkin a beautiful, luxurious finish.

We recommend:
LumenGold 24K Premium Large Edible Gold Leaf - 25 Sheets - 8 x 8 cm - Tweezers included - Big Transfer sheets of Genuine Gold Foil - Cakes, Desserts, Food, Facials, Gilding, Luxury Cuisines
4.2
(72) LumenGold 24K Premium Large Edible Gold Leaf - 25 Sheets - 8 x 8 cm - Tweezers included - Big Transfer sheets of Genuine Gold Foil - Cakes, Desserts, Food, Facials, Gilding, Luxury Cuisines $68.77 View details Barnabas Blattgold Gold Leaf - 24K Real Gold [10 Sheets, 3.1 inches] - Loose Sheets for Painting, Arts and Crafts
4.6
(599) Barnabas Blattgold Gold Leaf - 24K Real Gold [10 Sheets, 3.1 inches] - Loose Sheets for Painting, Arts and Crafts $41.54 View details Bememo 100 Pcs Gold Leaf Sheets Imitation Gold Foil Paper Sheets for Arts, Gilding Crafting, Painting, Picture Frames, Projects, Furniture Decoration, 5.5" x 5.5"
4.6
(8,387) Bememo 100 Pcs Gold Leaf Sheets Imitation Gold Foil Paper Sheets for Arts, Gilding Crafting, Painting, Picture Frames, Projects, Furniture Decoration, 5.5" x 5.5" $5.99 View details
Spray Paint

Your finishing touch! Pick a color that complements your decor, or go classic with orange for a traditional pumpkin vibe.

We recommend:
best seller Rust-Oleum 331180 Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint, 12 oz, High Gloss Strawberry Fields
4.7
(87,456) Rust-Oleum 331180 Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint, 12 oz, High Gloss Strawberry Fields $8.99 View details Rust-Oleum 7797830 Stops Rust Spray Paint, 12 oz, Semi-Gloss White
4.7
(43,315) Rust-Oleum 7797830 Stops Rust Spray Paint, 12 oz, Semi-Gloss White $6.47 $8.29 View details Krylon K05505007 COLORmaxx Spray Paint and Primer for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Gloss Black 12 Ounce (Pack of 1)
4.6
(35,756) Krylon K05505007 COLORmaxx Spray Paint and Primer for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Gloss Black 12 Ounce (Pack of 1) $7.75 $8.62 View details

Variations

Looking for some exciting twists on this pumpkin decoration? Here are some alternatives! 🎨

Gluten-Free Version: While this recipe is inherently gluten-free since it relies on clay and not food products, you can even use edible materials and colors if you want to enhance your autumn creations.

Vegan Touch: All the materials mentioned are vegan-friendly! Use eco-friendly, non-toxic spray paint to align with your vegan lifestyle while crafting your seasonal decor. 🌱

Faq

  • What if my balloon pops during the process?

    Don’t worry! Simply replace it with a new one, and continue working. Just be gentle and avoid sharp objects near the balloon.

  • How long does the self-hardening clay take to dry?

    It typically takes around 24-48 hours to fully dry, depending on humidity levels in your environment. Make sure to give it ample time!

  • Can I paint my pumpkin decoration using regular paint?

    Yes, you can! Just ensure that the paint you use is suitable for crafts and that it adheres well to the clay surface.

  • Will the gold leaf stick to the spray paint?

    Yes, gold leaf adheres wonderfully to spray paint, especially when applied to a dry surface. Just be gentle to avoid peeling!

  • What can I do if I mess up the clay shape?

    Don’t fret! You can reshape it while it’s still soft, or if it hardens, you can sand it down and start fresh.

  • Can I add additional decorations to my pumpkin?

    Absolutely! Feel free to embellish it with ribbons, flowers, or even lights for an enchanting touch.

Nutrition facts

DIY Decorative Pumpkin for Fall
Recipe Yield:1 decorative pumpkin