Fall festive Halloween pumpkins, perfect for decorating the house, sitting out on the steps or leaning on the fireplace mantel. These are made from wood scraps and pallets. These measure roughly 14" wide by 14" high including the stem.

I start by choosing wood scraps that are roughly the same thickness. I found a pumpkin shaped outline on the internet, printed it out, then cut it out. Next I arranged them side by side then glued them together. I like to include this step even though I glue/nail another board across the back that would keep them together. After clamping them together, I wait until the glue sets before unclamping and cutting the shape out.

My next step is to trace the pumpkin outline onto the wood. Next I use a jig saw to cut it out. Then I sand the whole piece, rounding any sharp edges. Now onto the painting!

Here's where the fun begins. Every piece of wood is unique and I can paint or stain anyway I wish. One board already had some white paint, so I kept it that way. I used orange paint diluted with water, brushed it on, then wiped it off until I achieved the look I was after. I mixed a little brown paint on top of the orange to get a different look. I also like some of the wood grain showing through in some. Try coming up with your own combinations of colors and stains. I love the colors of the Rustoleum spray paint but for this project, I sprayed the paint into plastic cups in order to wipe or brush it on. It works beautifully.

My final steps include taking a narrow strip of wood, glueing and nailing it horizontally to the back. Next I find a unique chunk of wood, and also attach it to the back, letting it peek over the front as a stem piece. Finally I spray a clear finish onto the project, which does a great job of sealing the finish and protecting it.

Keep posted, I'm making more of these and will update with pics!

Pumpkin Wood Treats