DIY Fall Décor: Pressed Flower Pumpkins
Turn your gourds into décor with pressed flower pumpkins
Story by Lance Hanlin + photography by Chrissy Mozeleski
Looking for a fall project that avoids the mess of pumpkin carving? Pressed flower pumpkins are equal parts art project and garden keepsake, adding a soft, floral touch to your table, mantel or porch that lasts well past Halloween. At Helena Hills Farm in Hardeeville, owner Chrissy Mozeleski has been sharing the craft in her popular workshops, where it’s quickly become a seasonal favorite. Once you see a pumpkin dressed in petals instead of a jack-o’-lantern grin, you’ll understand the appeal. Here’s her step-by-step guide to creating a centerpiece that looks like it came straight from the garden, with no carving knife required.
DIY Pressed Flower Pumpkins
What you will need: Pressed flowers, a smooth pumpkin (real or faux), paint and brushes, craft glue or Mod Podge, clear sealant, scissors
Step 1: Press your flowers
Start by picking blooms with flatter petals and good color. Vinca, pansies, cosmos, daisies, salvia and ferns all press beautifully. Tuck them between sheets of absorbent paper and stack them under a flower press or a heavy pile of books. Leave them alone for a couple of weeks until they’re crisp and dry.
Step 2: Choose your pumpkin
Any pumpkin works, as long as the surface is smooth and clean. Paint your pumpkin. White pumpkins give the flowers extra pop, while muted shades create a more romantic look. Real or faux both work; the only difference is that faux pumpkins can be reused every year.
Step 3: Plan your design
Before you grab the glue, lay your flowers out on the pumpkin. Play around with patterns: a cascading effect, a tight little bouquet or a wildflower scatter. Once you like the look, snap a quick photo for reference.
Step 4: Attach and seal
Using a small paintbrush, apply a thin layer of craft glue or Mod Podge and gently press each flower in place. After everything is set, brush on a protective seal to lock in the colors. Use scissors to trim stems or petals.
Farm-fresh creativity
Helena Hills Farm is a new U-pick flower farm in Hardeeville. It’s the perfect pit stop to pick blooms or try a workshop before or after a trip to Savannah. Learn more at helenahillsfarm.com.
Upcoming workshops
Oct. 3-5: Decoupage Floral Ghost & Pumpkins
Oct. 10-12 & 24: Dried Floral Pumpkins
Oct. 31: Halloween Craft, Pressed Floral Pumpkins
Nov. 1-2: Día de los Muertos, Marigolds & Memories
Nov. 24-26: Dried Floral Pumpkins
