How to Decorate Halloween Pumpkins Without Carving

Every year you see hundreds, if not thousands, of carved pumpkins. The jack o' lanterns decorate porches, sidewalks, walkways and parties. Stores even sell pumpkin carving kits that include the carving tools and templates, in case you need help. This year, why not try something different and skip carving your pumpkins? Create Halloween pumpkins that showcase the season and holiday without using a knife.

One idea involves painting your pumpkins with black paint. Pick a flat or matte paint black paint that gives the finished pumpkin a slightly spooky look. For a more modern take on the idea, paint the pumpkins in shades of silver or gold. The metallic paints create a festive look that lasts throughout fall. Or, consider painting the pumpkins with black chalkboard paint. Once the paint dries, draw images of cats, witches and other Halloween themed designs.

Paint the pumpkins with spray paint, which creates a smoother finish that ordinary paint applied with a paintbrush. Set the pumpkins on an old tarp or newspaper and spray an even coat of the paint. If you want a deeper or darker color, then apply additional coats to the pumpkins. Apply paint to both the pumpkin and the pumpkin stem.

If paint isn't your thing, then opt for sewing pins. The round piece at the end resembles the look of a pearl. Sketch out your design on the pumpkin and insert the pins around the edges of the design. Make your own Halloween sign by creating a different letter on each pumpkin. Line up the pumpkins, spelling out "Happy Halloween", "Boo", or anything else you want.

Spelling out a larger phrase may take up too much space. In that case, create smaller words on each pumpkin. A line of pumpkins saying, "Boo" looks just as great as multiple pumpkins saying a larger word or phrase. If you cannot find sewing pins, then glue individual beads or fake pearls to the top of thumbtacks. Use a hot glue gun for a firmer hold. Simply insert the pieces directly into the pumpkin until the top sits flush with the pumpkin.

As a last resort for decorating a pumpkin without carving, look for plastic kits from your favorite party store. In addition to Mr. Potato Head ©, several other characters are available in kits, including Iron Man ©. Each kit contains multiple plastic pieces with a pointed back. The pointed piece slides smoothly through the pumpkin flesh without the use of a knife.

Whatever non-carving option you pick, have fun with your design! Decorate the pumpkins to fit with any other Halloween decorations you use. The finished pumpkins are perfect for indoor or outdoor decor.