For many, pumpkin carving [1] conjures nostalgic memories of childhood. Sitting around the table, scooping out gooey pumpkin seeds, and planning your design was — and still is — a staple of Halloween [2] activities. But unless you're blessed with a flawless pumpkin-carving technique [3], oftentimes those detailed designs don't translate into the pumpkin you envisioned. This year, why not try your hand at another pumpkin decorating approach: painting [4]! These DIYs and tutorials show just what you can do with a little bit of paint and an hour or two of your time — and they let you avoid the mess of pumpkin guts.
Inspirational Pumpkins
Cover your painted pumpkins in inspirational quotes with this fun tutorial [5]!
Gray and White
Create your own gorgeous tabletop display with an arrangement of painted pumpkins [6], both solid and ombré!
Tissue Paper Pumpkin
This fun pumpkin [7] is painted, then tissue paper is applied to the surface. You can choose modern colors like this one or go for a Halloween [8] theme.
Trick or Treat Pumpkin
This trick-or-treat-themed pumpkin [9] would be perfect for greeting young trick-or-treaters on Halloween [10] night.
Assorted Pumpkins
Put together a display of pumpkins [11] for your front porch in different shapes, sizes, colors, and designs.
Doughnut Pumpkins
Who doesn't love doughnuts? With this easy step-by-step tutorial [12], you can turn your pumpkins into a beloved treat.
Fall Floral Pumpkin
Who says florals should be saved for springtime? This stunning Fall-floral painted pumpkin [13] proves flowers are appropriate year round.
Stitched Motifs
These adorable painted pumpkins [14] are perfect for the cross-stitch-lover!
Cactus Pumpkins
It turns out pumpkins make great cactuses! Turn your pumpkin into your favorite cactus [15] or succulent this year.
Galaxy Pumpkin
Embrace your love of astronomy and sci-fi with this fun and super simple galaxy pumpkin DIY [16]!
Autumn Pumpkin
Your pumpkins don't need to be reserved for the Halloween [17] holiday. Add this autumnal painted pumpkin [18] to your dinner table or living room decor.
Painted Dot Pumpkins
Painted pumpkins don't have to be one-dimensional! Painted dot pumpkins [19] add some texture to your space.
Modern Painted Pumpkins
Combine chalk paint and stone spray paint to create fun, textured, Halloween-themed pumpkins [20].
Marbled Pumpkin
This marbled pumpkin DIY [21] is so simple, and you'll be left with absolutely gorgeous little pumpkins for use throughout your home.
Rosy Painted Pumpkins
Flex your creative muscles and turn your pumpkins into gorgeous, year-round decor with this painted pumpkin tutorial [22].
Herringbone Pumpkins
These painted pumpkins [23] use a beautifully classic pattern with herringbone, and the white and gold combination is stunning.
Geometric Blue Pumpkins
Turn up your modern home decor with these perfectly on-trend blue geometric painted pumpkins [24].
Brushstroke Pumpkins
Turn any-size pumpkin into the perfect modern decor item with this brushstroke pumpkin DIY [25].
Colorblocked Pumpkins
Sometimes a little bit of paint can go a long way! These simple, colorblocked pumpkins [26] are easy and make a big statement.