Halloween is just around the corner. While I’ve never gotten super into this holiday, and I don’t have kids to push me to go crazy with Halloween decorations, I do enjoy putting my own touches on this centuries-old day meant to scare off demonic would-be visitors.
My decorations tend to be a bit more on the elegantly scary side, with a little shine and bling. But those can be hard to find. So, if I want them, I have to make my own. Oh, who am I kidding? I just wanted an excuse to play with glitter. I mean, who wouldn’t? Glitter rocks!
Here’s how I made glittered pumpkins to add a little sparkle to my Halloween decor.
Start with plastic pumpkins from your local craft store. I found these at a chain craft store for half price. Choose pumpkins that are plastic, or made of some material other than styrofoam. I’ve learned from experience that spray paint eats styrofoam.
Spray paint the pumpkins black. Let dry at least 24 hours.
Gather your materials. I used glitter and paint pens, but you can let your imagination run wild.
Plan your design, then draw with the paint pens. I chose to do a spider web with a giant spider. But you can also do vines and leaves, geometric shapes, spooky scenes, or whatever inspiration hits you.
Choose specific areas to highlight with glitter. Using a small tool, like a toothpick, apply glue to the areas you want to glitter. Work in small areas so the glue doesn’t dry before glitter is applied. Here’s my spider web.
Here’s Malinda’s vines and leaves.
Sprinkle glitter over the glue. Work over a protected surface, like butcher paper, and try to keep your glitter contained by applying it over a paper plate to catch the glitter as it falls. Otherwise you’ll have glitter all over your home. (Unless you like that look, and then by all means, go for it!)
Tap off the excess glitter then let the glue set for a couple minutes. Using a soft-bristled brush, brush off any remaining glitter around the glue areas.
Enjoy your fun, elegant, glittered pumpkins as table centerpieces, on a fireplace heart, or anyplace you want to add a little Halloween bling.
