Have you seen a book pumpkin? This simple craft uses an old discarded or broken paperback book and some paint to make the most awesome book pumpkin fall decoration that can be used for centerpieces or autumn decor.

I have to admit something. I am not a very skilled crafter. It is one of the reasons I feel much more comfortable in a kids activities setting…people aren’t expecting professional results!

But I love to craft!

Finding really easy fall crafts that turn out with limited skills and are inexpensive to make is sometimes difficult, but this book pumpkin craft ticks all the boxes and turns out so cute. Older kids will be able to craft their own book pumpkins and younger kids can help with several of the crafting steps.

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How to Make a Pumpkin from a Book Craft

It was great to upcycle an old paperback book I had around the house. If you don’t have worn out, dog-eared paperback books laying around, check recycling bins, thrift stores and dollar stores. They can be any size. The thicker the book, the more full your pumpkin will appear.

Supplies Needed

• old paperback book
• orange paint
• paint brush
• water
• scissors/sharp edge cutter
• stick
• rafia
• marker
• glue or paperclip

Directions

Step 1

Trace 1/2 a pumpkin on the outside of the book with a marker – think 1/2 a heart like you would do for Valentines.

Step 2

Use scissors or a exacto-like knife to cut the book along the traced line.  I ended up sectioning the book into several segments (and it doesn’t have to be perfect because you can trim later).

Step 3

Dilute orange paint with water – equal parts paint & water.  And paint just the outside edges of the pages.

Step 4

Grab a stick from outside and use it as a pumpkin stem.

Step 5

Glue the book in a fan around the the stick or attach book covers with paperclip.

Step 6

Add raffia.

Tips for Next Time

This is a great craft for older kids. I was surprised at how easy it was to complete. The only modification I would make is to thicken the stick pumpkin stem with several additional stick pieces.

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More Pumpkin Crafts & Fun from Kids Activities Blog

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• These no carve pumpkin ideas are perfect for real pumpkins that last longer on your porch or are safer for your kids to help decorate.
• Make a cereal box pumpkin craft for kids!
• Make a string pumpkin craft…these turn out so cute and are incredibly cheap to make!
• Easy pumpkin carving is essential with kids so we show you how to carve a pumpkin!
• Don’t miss out on these free and fun pumpkin carving stencils!

How did your book pumpkin craft turn out? Wasn’t that fun to make?