Updated: Oct. 11, 2023
We asked museum directors what paint they use at their annual pumpkin painting workshops. Take their advice and create your own masterpiece this year!
Halloween is just around the corner, which means it’s time for decorating pumpkins. If you’d like to try something different this year, consider painting pumpkins instead of carving them.
Painted pumpkins last longer and the creative possibilities are endless. But what’s the best paint to use for pumpkins this Halloween?
We spoke to Charlotte Hutson, director of education at the Spartanburg Art Museum in South Carolina, and Kelsey Christian, director of education at William King Museum of Art in Virginia, for expert tips and tricks for painting pumpkins this season.
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The Best Pumpkin Paint
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Start by choosing the right type of paint. Acrylic and tempera are the top choices for pumpkin decorating enthusiasts and artists.
Acrylic paint
Hutson says acrylic is the museum’s go-to paint for their pumpkin painting workshops for kids. “Acrylic is fast-drying, washable, and easy to work with,” she says.
Christian agrees. “Acrylic applies well and is more opaque for better coverage. It also comes in lots of fun colors,” she says. Try the Magicfly Acrylic Paint Set with 14 colors for lots of creative choices.
Acrylic paints also adhere well to a pumpkin’s uneven and textured surface with a smooth and even finish. It’s non-toxic and allows for easy cleanup with soap and water, making it a great kid-friendly choice.
Tempera paint
Hutson recommends this kind of paint for really young children. “Tempera paint is great because the base is eggs, so it’s safe to use with little ones who don’t yet know not to eat it,” she says.
Christian also opts for tempera paint with her youngest patrons during the museum’s annual pumpkin painting event. “You don’t have to worry if they get it on themselves or in their mouths,” she says.
Tempera paint can crack and peel after drying. To improve its adhesion, add a few drops of liquid dish soap to the paint before applying. Of course, then make sure children don’t put it in their mouths.
Seal With Clear Coat
If you plan to display your painted pumpkins outside, it’s essential to seal your masterpiece with a clear acrylic sealer. This step enhances the colors, adds a subtle sheen, protects against moisture and prolongs the life of your pumpkin decoration.
Clear coats are available in various finishes, from glossy to matte, allowing you to choose the perfect look for your design. Hutson offers workshop attendees a clear-coat spray to protect their project from the elements. One option is Rust-Oleum’s Clear Top Coat.
Paint the Stem
While the main body of the pumpkin gets most of the attention, you can get creative with the stem, too. Try a metallic gold or silver for an elegant and polished look, or a matte black for something more spooky. Whatever you choose, don’t miss this opportunity to let your creativity shine.
Get Inspiration Online
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The internet can be a treasure trove of ideas. Browse through Pinterest, Instagram and decorating blogs to discover a plethora of pumpkin painting designs.
From cute and whimsical characters to intricately detailed scenes, you’ll find a wide array of styles to spark your imagination. Don’t hesitate to put your spin on a design you find online to make it your own.
Add Nails and Thread for Texture
For a creative twist, consider incorporating different textures into your pumpkin design with nails and thread.
Tap 3/4-inch flathead nails into the pumpkin surface to create an outline. Next, tie colorful thread or string to one nail, and wind the thread around the other nails in a crisscross pattern to fill in the outline. This three-dimensional element will add depth to any pumpkin project.
Choose the Right Brush
There’s no wrong way to apply paint to a pumpkin. It can be poured, speckled, dipped, brushed or sponged on to create different looks. But for more intricate designs and precise lines, a paintbrush is the way to go.
Christian likes to let older kids draw on the pumpkin in marker first, then use synthetic brushes to cover their designs with paint. Hutson recommends a clean, soft bristle brush for a smoother finish, and a foam brush to cover larger areas.
If you’re experimenting with textures like stippling or dry brushing, consider natural sponge brushes for a unique and textured finish.
