Looking for fun, festive Fall decor that you can make yourself? Introducing PUMPCULENTS—the perfect way to combine and display the bounties of nature.
This week, my friend Melba invited several crafty co-horts over on a gorgeous Fall afternoon. We snacked, sipped, and wielded our glue guns to create these tributes to the Fall season.
Here's what you need to create your own pumpculents (hint: you can get many of these supplies at Trader Joes):
Pumpkins of different sizes, colors and shapes
Succulents--a good variety
Glue gun and scissors
Moss (you can buy this at a craft store or here)
Assorted add-ons: seed pods, Fall leaves, dried orange slices, wheat berries, pinecones, acorns, walnuts, etc. (Hint: I found some good stuff on my walks around the neighborhood!)
Your first step is to choose the succulents and materials you want. Experiment! Try a monochromatic scheme, or mix in different Fall colors. Incorporate your stem in a fun way. Take time to lay out your pieces on your pumpkin before you glue anything down.
When you've decided upon your ensemble, start making your masterpiece by using your hot glue gun to attach the moss to the top of the pumpkin. Here, I experimented with 2 different colors and types of moss.
After your moss base is secure, glue your succulents on top. Note: make sure to remove all dirt from the base of the succulent, so just the base of the plant is glued to the pumpkin.
Then add your other "pumpkin jewelry" slowly, stopping to evaluate the overall look as you go along.
It was spectacular to see all the treasures we created. Feast your eyes on these . . .
Even more fun than making these is finding the perfect spots for them in your home. Tuck the smaller pumpkins into bookshelves, and feature the big ones as the centerpiece for your dining table. I'm told these will last for months!
What are you waiting for? Get to a pumpkin patch (or just good ol' TJ's) and get started!