We all love the brisk, cool weather of autumn. The days are filled with golden light and kids destroying your nice and neat pile of freshly raked leaves. You probably think there's no reason to stay indoors doing a pumpkin prints art project with the kids.
But sometimes the weather is just a bit too crisp, you know what I mean? On those days, it is handy to have an easy autumn activity to fall back on, especially if that activity is pumpkin related.
Let me introduce you to our absolute favorite fall art project: mini pumpkin prints.
Pumpkin stamping art is so simple and once you have it set up the kids need very little supervision. Unless, of course, they start printing on surfaces other than paper. Then you are on your own.
MORE: 65 Fun Fall Family Activities
Pumpkin Printing Materials
Mini pumpkins, any color
Paint. We recommend washable paint.
Paint trays. Disposable containers or lids work well
Paper. We recommend paper from a big paper roll like butcher paper, but any art paper will work.
Optional: carrots or other root vegetables
Optional: paint brushes
Mini Pumpkin Print Instructions
Slice each mini pumpkin in half. Slice some lengthwise and others widthwise, for variety. You can also leave some whole. Scoop out the seeds.
Squirt out paint onto trays. We used autumnal colors like orange, green and brown. Of course you could choose pink and purple sparkly paints if that's what your kids want. Why limit yourself?
Set out paper on work surface. I covered the entire table with paper from a large roll.
Press the mini pumpkin half into the paint trays, then stamp on paper to make a print. Repeat as desired!
The boys also decided to print with the whole pumpkins.
For variety, add in a few carrots with the tops sliced off. They make nice circle prints. For more fall art fun, try apple printing.
When we were done I ended up hanging the large sheet of now-decorated paper above the table on the wall. It makes some lovely seasonal artwork that adds a bit of autumn cheer to the apartment.
The printing might also inspire some more traditional pumpkin painting like this gem. Be sure to look closely at the moon.
Idea first published 2009, updated 2023.
maryanne @ mama smiles says
Great idea - and looks like your boys got very into it!
Momand Kiddo says
They did. It kept them busy for a while. Always a good thing!
Roopa says
Love that you cut the pumpkins and that created interesting patterns:)
We have done mini pumpkin prints too, but without cutting! http://www.puttisworld.com/2011/11/printing-with-pumpkins.html
Krissy Sherman Bonning says
I bet they had so much fun! I'd love for you to stop over and enter this in my Perfectly Pumpkin Contest at B-Inspired Mama on Monday!
Momand Kiddo says
Thanks, Krissy. I will.
Kelly at Little Wonders' Days says
So fun! I love how it looks on the paper.
Kendall Soto says
That turned out awesome!
Cerys @ Blogging with Kids says
This looks so much fun - I'm going to try and find a mini pumpkin to do it with
Stephanie Davis says
I saw your post on Dirt & Boogers. I love this idea. I think I'll try this next week with my twins. Looks like you are having so much fun with you little ones! It's great to see.
Mom and Kiddo says
Thanks Stephanie. And I love that it is such and easy project.
Rebecca English says
This looks brilliant. I have loads of mini pumpkins. I'll add it to our list of things to do!
I've featured this on The Sunday Showcase this week: http://www.herecomethegirlsblog.com/2012/10/20/sunday-showcase-halloween-messy-play.html
Chelsey @ Buggy and Buddy says
These turned out gorgeous! What a perfect activity for fall! I can for sure see my kids going crazy for this! Thanks so much for linking up to this week's Discover & Explore! Off to pin!
Sarah @ How Wee Learn says
This is such a fun idea - and would be a great comparison with an apple stamping picture. Such a creative activity. Thanks!
Lauren says
I love this idea! I never thought to use mini pumpkins for printing. How fun!