Gourd Jack O Lantern Painting Craft: Fun DIY Decorations
Gourd painting is a delightful way to explore your artistic side and create unique home décor! The natural shapes and textures of gourds offer endless possibilities for imagination and design. Use this tutorial to make your own painted gourd jack o lantern!
Gourd Painting As An Alternative To Carving
Have you ever considered gourd painting as a fun and creative alternative to traditional pumpkin carving during the fall season?
Besides being a fun art project, painted gourds can also serve as terrific decorative pieces!
How To Make A Gourd Jack O Lantern
Gourd painting is a wonderful alternative to carving, offering endless possibilities for creative expression. It’s perfect for people of all ages, especially kids, and the finished products can be ah-mazing!
Supplies Needed
- Gourd (washed, cleaned, and dried)
- Orange craft paint
- Black craft paint
- Paintbrushes
- Black sharpie marker
- Paper plate
- Clear sealant (optional)
NOTE: For the craft details, please check out the handy printable recipe card at the bottom of the post!
Gourd Jack O Lantern Instructions
Just follow these simple step-by-step instructions. Even kids can do this fun gourd painting project!
Step 1
Prepare the workspace. Place the gourd on a paper plate.
Step 2
Paint the gourd orange. Set aside to dry. Paint a second coat, set aside to dry. If needed, continue painting coats on until you get the desired results.
Step 3
Draw the Jack-o-lantern face, nose, and mouth using the marker. Get creative and have fun with the face shapes!
Step 4
Paint the face, nose, and mouth black. Set aside to dry. Paint another coat if needed. Set aside to dry.
Once dry, display the gourd during the fall season!
Choosing Your Gourd
Whether you shop for your gourd at the pumpkin patch, grocery store, or in your backyard, keep an eye out for gourds that:
- Have a flat side or surface for easier painting
- Are free from cracks or holes to ensure they last longer
- Have a thick wall that can withstand pressure
Always inspect the gourds carefully before making your choice, and remember that each one is unique and will add a special flair to your craft!
Cleaning the Gourd
Before painting, it’s essential to clean your gourd to ensure the paint adheres properly and lasts longer. Follow these steps to clean your gourd:
- Fill a bucket with warm, soapy water.
- Gently scrub the surface with a sponge to remove dirt and mold.
Now that your gourd is clean, dry, and ready to be painted, get creative and enjoy the process of transforming it into a unique piece of art!
Sealing and Finishing the Gourd Jack O Lantern
When it comes to gourd painting, sealing and finishing are not necessary when creating a typical decoration. If you want to create something longer-lasting, I WOULD recommend sealing your gourd jack o lantern. Here’s how:
Apply Clear Top Coat
Applying a clear top coat is essential for protecting your painted gourds and giving them a polished appearance. To apply the clear top coat, follow these simple steps:
- Ensure your gourd artwork is completely dry.
- Spray your clear coat over your project. You can choose a matte or glossy finish, depending on your preference (I personally like the shine version for this project).
- Allow the top coat to dry before handling or displaying your gourd.
DIY Gourd Jack O Lantern Tips
Get Creative: I’m sharing a jack o lantern gourd idea, but you can create any kind of painted gourd that you want! Whether you choose to paint intricate designs, whimsical characters, or seasonal themes, remember to have fun and let your creativity shine.
Display Intentionally: Keep your painted gourds indoors to prevent exposure to harsh outdoor elements. This will help maintain their appearance and ensure they remain sealed and protected. Make sure to place your gourd decorations away from direct sunlight or moisture to prolong their lifespan.
Painted Gourd Jack O Lantern FAQs
When preparing my gourd for painting, I like to pick a thick-walled gourd of about 10 inches in diameter. Then, to clean the gourd, I wash it with soap and water. Once my gourd is clean and dry, it’s ready to be painted.
I prefer using craft paint for projects like this one cause it’s affordable, easy-to-use for kids, and adheres well to the surface. DecoArt Americana, Folk, and Apple Barrel paints are my favorites to use!
Apply the paint with a brush. If you choose to apply more than one layer, make sure that the paint fully dries before adding another layer.
Gourd painting is so much fun and it’s perfect for Halloween! In addition to this gourd jack o lantern craft, here are some ideas to inspire you:
1. Ghostly gourds: Paint your gourd white and add ghostly features such as black eyes and a mouth to create an eerie yet adorable Halloween display.
2. Monster mash: Unleash your artistic skills and transform your gourd into a unique monster with various colors, textures, and imaginative features. Think about incorporating fangs, fur, or even a fun patterned “skin”!
3. Fall foliage: Embrace the beauty of autumn by painting your gourd with warm fall colors and intricate leaf patterns. This can be an elegant and charming addition to your Halloween décor.
More Halloween Crafts And Fun
If you love this gourd jack o lantern painting activity, check out these other fun ideas too!
