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Recycled · Halloween · Kids

Paper bag pumpkins

Stuff a lunch bag with newspaper, twist the top into a stem, paint it orange, and it stands on the table like a real pumpkin.

Paper bag pumpkins
LevelBeginner
AgesAges 5 to 8
Time30 minutes plus 30 minutes drying
Cost$1 to $4
HalloweenFallThanksgivingDollar storeRainy day

What you'll need

Materials

Tick them off as you find them.

Tools

How to make it

  1. Step 1: Stuff the bag
    1

    Stuff the bag

    Crumple newspaper into balls and fill the bag about 2/3 full.

  2. Step 2: Make the stem
    2

    Make the stem

    Squeeze the top closed and twist it tight. Wrap tape around the twist.

  3. Step 3: Paint it orange
    3

    Paint it orange

    Paint the round part orange and the stem brown. Let it dry for 30 minutes.

  4. Step 4: Add a vine
    4

    Add a vine

    Wrap a green pipe cleaner around a pencil, slide it off, and twist it onto the stem.

  5. Step 5: Make a face (optional)
    5

    Make a face (optional)

    Cut black paper triangles and glue them on for a jack-o'-lantern.

Edie's tip

Paint the bag before you stuff it if your kid likes painting flat. It's less wobbly.

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