3D Paper Pumpkins (Bonus SVG)

Directions

1. Find and print the free pumpkin template located at the bottom of this post. Decide whether to cut out one or all template pieces based on how many pumpkins you want.
2. Pick a patterned cardstock from your Whimsy or autumn paper pack and match it with a solid fall color. Trace the pumpkin template onto your cardstock sheets. Each pumpkin requires 10 cutouts; if you trace carefully, you can fit 10 templates per sheet, making two pumpkins from one page.
3. Cut out every traced pumpkin piece slowly and precisely for clean edges that give a polished final look.
4. Fold each pumpkin piece in half. This fold will create the three-dimensional shape when assembled.
5. Using a hot glue gun, attach folded pumpkin pieces back-to-back along their center folds. Alternate patterns as you go to make the design interesting. Continue until you have two stacks of five pieces each.
6. Keep gluing pieces together, switching colors with each addition, until you have two sets of five. Press each glued seam firmly so the pumpkin holds its shape well, even if reused for autumn decorations year after year.
7. Run a thin, even line of hot glue along the outer seam of one pumpkin set. Avoid using too much so it doesn't squeeze out. If the glue sets fast, do small sections at a time.
8. Press a twig (with some personality like a curve or texture) into the glue. For a natural pumpkin look, a twig is ideal. Alternatively, use a small wooden dowel or a cinnamon stick to add a subtle fall scent.
9. Glue along the outer seam of the second pumpkin set and attach it to the opposite side of the twig. Align the edges carefully for a seamless appearance. For a plumper pumpkin, add extra layers now, remembering to alternate colors and patterns.
10. Gently spread out the pumpkin layers and apply a small amount of glue where the two sides meet. This helps form a smooth, round shape. Adjust the layers so they fan out evenly for the best 3D look.
11. Snip a 3-inch length of floral wire. Curl about 2 inches of it around a pencil to create a spiral that resembles pumpkin vines. For a more natural appearance, cover the wire with green floral tape before curling.
12. Wrap the remaining 1 inch of wire around the twig and tighten it so it stays put. For extra decoration, you can glue a small fabric leaf or two at the twig's base just below the curly wire.