Easy No-Carve Pumpkins

Get ready for Halloween and the fall season by creating artistic pumpkins with paint and skip the carving mess! It's not only a great activity for the kids, but adults can make great centerpieces and other fall decorations too!

First, look for a pumpkin with a nice shape. Check for blemishes and a firm stem. The pumpkin should also have a flat bottom to sit upright properly. Give your pumpkin a quick wash to remove any dirt and dust. Wipe it dry with a paper towel and let it dry for a few minutes. 

Choose your design and then draw the basic sketch on your pumpkin with a felt-tip marker or pencil; make faces, geometric shapes, stripes or dots. Decide whether you want to use some of the natural color of your pumpkin or whether you want to paint the entire pumpkin with a color. Stencils can be used, but so can your own imagination and creativity! 

Now get painting! Acrylic paint works best, but if you have another type of paint at home like poster paint- give it a try (on the bottom of the pumpkin) and see if it sticks. Keep in mind that even if a water based paint sticks and looks ok, it could come off in the rain later. For extra protection, use a general purpose sealer or spray-on varnish to seal the paint if desired. For extra flair when the paint is dry, glue on some glitter, sequins, beads or yarn. 

Miniature pumpkins can also be painted to make great centerpieces and decorations too. Simply painting small pumpkins pure white is a very elegant idea for the dinner table. Cut out a small hole from the stem and make a candle holder. Add flowers, gourds or other decorations. Raid the cupboard for display ideas such as bowls or cake plates to complete your festive fall composition!


The Ankeny Art Center is a local gallery space for artists throughout the Des Moines area. The AAC strives to be an innovative visual arts organization committed to providing superior art experiences that inspire, educate, and challenge all members of the community. To obtain more information about upcoming art classes or exhibitions, visit the Ankeny Art Center at 1520 SW Ordnance Rd, Ankeny or visit the AAC website at www.AnkenyArtCenter.com  Gallery hours are: T-F 9am-1pm, Th 4pm-7pm, Sat 9am-noon.