Copper-Rusty Pumpkins

The patina of copper and rust on most anything has my attention. So, adding a copper-rusty patina to these mini foam pumpkins from Walmart seemed like the thing to do. As Fall slowly approaches, I like to slowly add in touches of autumn around my house. Using small filler pumpkins in the traditional colors is where I started. If you’ve been following me for any length of time, I like to put own spin on things that I bring into my home and do love creating something from nothing.

Autumn colors are brilliant colors of yellow, orange, red and brown. While I do like touches of these vibrant shades I most often prefer to venture out on my own on some occasions. Today I am sharing how I created my copper-rusty pumpkins. I still think that my pumpkins are full of autumn richness in more neutral tones that resemble that of a patinaed copper penny.

What is this copper patina?

A copper patina on these pumpkins is intentionally aging or weathering to give the pumpkins the appearance of being exposed to the elements over time. This effect is typically achieved by t

Ready to discover how to turn ordinary pumpkins into unique, copper-rusty masterpieces that will elevate your seasonal decor?

Before

These mini foam pumpkins are painted in the very bright and bold colors of traditional fall colors. As autumn arrives it’s time to spice up your fall decor by adding a stunning copper patina using metallic paint with a few extras. So let’s create some copper-rusty pumpkins.

What You Will Need

• Paint in at least 3 colors brown, aqua or turquoise blue, metallic brown/metallic copper
• Mini foam pumpkins from the Dollar Store or Walmart
• flour
• cinnamon
• paint brushes and foam brushes
• painters tape

Step 1.

Using painters’ tape, tape off the stems. I would like to recommend pulling the faux stems off and when you are finished painting add real stems. I didn’t find real pumpkins stems for purchase, so I continued with the faux stems.

Step 2.

Paint the foam pumpkins in a base coat of brown acrylic paint or chalk paint in a muted or earthy tone.

Step 3.

Step 3 begins the layering of additional colors. Using the metallic or copper paint, paint the pumpkin. You can allow for some of the other colors to show through for a more weathered look. Here you can use a sponge or dry brush to create texture and depth.

Step 4.

Add the turquoise paint. I thinned out the turquoise paint with water so that it would run a bit. Using a sponge and/or paper towel, I dabbed the turquoise paint off to give the appearance of an aged copper penny.

Step 5.

While the pumpkin is damp, I sprinkle cinnamon and flour in places. I let it dry for a few minutes then with a dry brush gently swept away some of the flour.

Step 6

This step I used a bit more of the copper metallic paint in a different shade to add more depth. Again, I sprinkled cinnamon over the pumpkin in the slightly damp paint.

After

How I styled the copper-rusty pumpkins – used as a simple decorative turquoise bowl filler. This is the view after the second batch that I painted. They all blend very well together. Used the same painting process as the first.

Bowl Filler of Copper-Rusty Pumpkins

While this turquoise bowl looks perfect empty, it looks even better filled with the copper- rusty pumpkins. I think they make a great fall statement. As well as make a beautiful statement grouped together rather than scattered around the house.

How would you use these copper-rusty pumpkins?

Notice: some of these pumpkins have a bit more of a coppery sheen than others while others have the appearance of more rust due to the sprinkling of cinnamon. I don’t think there is a wrong way of creating these copper- rusty pumpkins. My one disappointment is that I am unable to find real pumpkin stems to glue on instead of the faux stems.

The goal is to create a rustic, aged, or antique look, often characterized by subtle, earthy colors and a worn or weathered texture. Patina pumpkins are perfect for fall and Halloween decor, adding a touch of vintage charm to seasonal displays. I have long mixed items that are common or grand and combined them all to create my home aesthetics.

In everyday living, I enjoy turning the everyday mundane into something simple, functional, and ‘my magical.’ Little moments are what make life big.

Happiness is homemade. Home is where your story is told.