You know those small pumpkins you see everywhere in the fall — usually priced at under a dollar? Turns out they’re pretty versatile, and can be used in a bunch of different creative ways! Here are 12 ideas to maximize your fun with the mini-pumpkins.
Places, please
Make the place cards on the Thanksgiving dinner table part of a fun and festive party favor! Attach card stock place cards to the mini pumpkins using a decorative pin — like these pearl-topped corsage pins — and you’ll decorate the table and everyone will know just where to sit.
What’s your name?
If you don’t want the bother of paper and pins, use a permanent marker to write the names of your guests right on the pumpkins! Still festive, still functional, but a little less work. Don’t want to choose spots for everyone? Let guests use these to mark their own places at the table.
Paint it white
White pumpkins are unique and stylish, and so easy to make! Use a matte-finish craft paint or interior paint (get one that’s low-odor) and cover your pumpkin. Besides covering up any uneven coloring or marks, you’ll end up with a cool and crisp piece of fall decor that you don’t have to store when the season’s done.
Kid-size fun
The younger set will love the chance to paint their very own minis! Let them start with the pumpkins au naturel, or prime the surface with some white paint beforehand (but be sure to let it dry before they start) Use washable non-toxic paints and paper plates to help contain the mess. (Photo USAG-Humphreys – U.S. Army/Lori Yerdon)
Light it up
Make some cute little autumnal candleholders on the cheap! Cut a hole in the top of each of your little pumpkins, scoop out a little bit of the inside with a spoon. Insert a little tealight candle, or a safe flameless little flicker candle. (Photo courtesy Connie)
Down the center
Add a few mini pumpkins to your dining table’s centerpiece for a splash of seasonal color! Combine them with leaves, branches or little stick baskets (like those shown here) to play up the rustic charm. (Photo courtesy Frédérique Voisin-Demery)
Cute and carved
What’s more adorable than tiny little jack-o’-lanterns?
Halloween smiles
No carving required! Just draw on some spooky faces.
Super for soup
A wee pumpkin makes the perfect serving bowl for a healthy helping of hot pumpkin soup! (Want to try some? You might be surprised at how good it is. Get a few recipes here!)
Pumpkin love
Get the family in on the awww action with your little punkin — and a little pumpkin. Here, mom, dad & baby pose together, with wedding rings around the pumpkin stem.
Rustic decor
Play up the rustic charm by adding some mini pumpkins to a seasonal display!
Pumpkin, barn style
Here’s a display idea for the rodeo enthusiast, farm fan, or down-home decor darling.
