Fall is here and one staple I always include in my fall decorating is pumpkins.

Do they have to be plain orange or carved with a scary face? Absolutely not!

Pumpkins can be any color and embellished to fit your fall décor.  Let’s get crazy!

Have you tried these pumpkin prepping ideas?

-Use thumb tacks to make your initial or spell a word like “Welcome” or “Friends”.

-Grab some permanent markers and draw a picture or your monogram. Or write words in fresh fonts you can download and trace.

-Paint pumpkins with acrylics or chalk paint to match your room’s color scheme. How about metallic? Or paint a pattern. Abstract? Stenciled leaves? Sure! (Tip: if you paint on a plastic, resin or papier mache’ pumpkin, you can save it and reuse for years. Want it glossy? Spray with a clear finish after painting.)

-Wrap your pumpkin in lace or other fabric to give it some texture.

-Carve out the middle of your pumpkin and set a potted mum in it. Instant planter!

-Spread your pumpkin with glue and sprinkle on some confetti, sequins, or glitter.

-Use cookie cutters to trace shapes such as leaves or polka dots. Carve, then insert an LED candle to light things up!

A personal favorite: just fill a large vase or glass cloche with tiny ghost pumpkins!

Do you need some help on how to decorate for fall from a pro?

Don’t keep spinning your wheels on what is not working. Five Days to Fall is here!