DIY Pumpkin Garland: A Cozy Fall Craft You’ll Love

Have you tried decorating for fall only to find store-bought items expensive and generic? We’ve all been there, wandering through aisles of mass-produced decor that somehow never feels quite right for our homes.

Here’s the thing about pumpkin garlands—they’re surprisingly simple to make but look impressive hanging across a mantel or draped along a staircase.

You can create a custom decoration that perfectly matches your style with just some felt, twine, stuffing, and basic craft supplies you probably already have.

This cozy craft takes about an hour to complete and costs a fraction of what you’d pay in stores.

Let’s create something that brings the warmth of autumn indoors—no special skills are required.

How Long Does It Take to Make a Pumpkin Garland DIY

The time it takes to make a pumpkin garland depends on the materials you’re using and the level of detail you want to add.

Here’s a general breakdown:

Estimated Time to Make a DIY Pumpkin Garland

Factors That Affect the Time

• Number of Pumpkins – A longer garland with more pumpkins will naturally take more time.
• Complexity – Adding extra details like paint, glitter, beads, or fairy lights can increase crafting time.
• Drying Time – If using paint, glue, or sealant, you may need extra time for drying.
• Crafting Skill Level – Beginners may take longer, while experienced crafters might work faster.

Quick Tips to Save Time

• Prep in Advance: Cut yarn, felt, or paper before starting the assembly.
• Use Hot Glue Instead of Sewing: If making a fabric garland, hot glue can speed up the process.
• Batch Process: Wrap all pumpkins first, then attach them to the garland in one step.

Making My Favourite Pumpkin Garland DIY at Home

I love creating a festive fall atmosphere, and this DIY pumpkin garland is a perfect way to add some autumn flair to my home!

Using mini faux pumpkins, twine, and hot glue, I can easily craft a charming garland to hang over mantels, windows, or doorways. It’s quick, easy, and super cute for fall!

Tools and Materials Required

For Preparing pumpkin shape

• Tool/Material needed: Orange Yarn
• Purpose: create the main pumpkin shape

To Secure pumpkin shape

• Tool/Material needed: Tan Yarn
• Purpose: Acts as the garland string to hold pumpkins

To Add details

• Tool/Material needed: Green Pipe Cleaners
• Purpose: Forms the pumpkin stems for a fun pop of color

To Cut materials

• Tool/Material needed: Scissors
• Purpose: Cuts yarn and pipe cleaners

To Attach pumpkins

• Tool/Material needed: Hot Glue Gun & Glue Sticks
• Purpose: Secure the pumpkins onto the garland string

For Measureing pumpkins

• Tool/Material needed: Ruler
• Purpose: Helps measure yarn and spacing

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Pumpkin Garland DIY at Home

Step 1: Preparing Your Yarn for Pumpkin Making

Started by unraveling a good amount of orange yarn from the spool. This makes wrapping much easier and prevents any tangling.

I hold the end of the yarn securely and wrap it around my fingers 50 times. The more wraps I do, the fuller and fluffier my pumpkin will be, but if I prefer thinner pumpkins, I go with 40 wraps instead.

Once I’m done, I cut the end of the yarn with scissors.

Step 2: Securing the Pumpkin Shape

Next, I cut a 6-inch strand of orange yarn and place it between my middle and ring fingers, making sure it’s centered.

I gently slide the wrapped yarn off my fingers while keeping its shape intact. Then, I take the 6-inch yarn piece and tie it tightly around the middle of the bundle, creating a bowtie-like shape.

I pull the knot tight to secure the loops, making sure the pumpkin stays in place.

Step 3: Shaping Your Pumpkin

I adjust the loops by fluffing them outward to create a round pumpkin shape. The tied section acts as the pumpkin’s center, where I’ll add the stem next.

I tuck in any loose ends or adjust the loops as needed to make the pumpkin look fuller.

Step 4: Adding the Pumpkin Stem

I cut a 1.5-inch piece of green pipe cleaner.

Then, I take the two loose ends at the top of my pumpkin (from the tie in Step 2) and pull them up slightly. I slide the pipe cleaner through the center knot and twist it tightly around itself to secure it.

For an extra cute touch, I bend or curl the pipe cleaner slightly to mimic a natural pumpkin stem!

Step 5: Making More Pumpkins

I repeat Steps 1–4 to create as many pumpkins as I want for my garland. Depending on how long I want my garland to be, I make anywhere from 5 to 10 pumpkins for a nice, full look.

Step 6: Attaching Pumpkins to the Garland String

I take my tan yarn (this will be the base of my garland) and leave about 10 inches of yarn at the end before attaching any pumpkins. This extra yarn will be used later for hanging.

Now, I space the pumpkins evenly along the string. Once I’m happy with the arrangement, I place a dot of hot glue on the back of each pumpkin’s pipe cleaner stem and press the tan yarn onto it.

For safety, I use a small tool, like the end of a pencil, to press down instead of my fingers to avoid burns.

Step 7: Finishing & Hanging the Garland

Once all the pumpkins are attached, I leave another 10 inches of extra yarn at the other end.

To make hanging easier, I tie a small loop at both ends of the garland. These loops are perfect for hanging the garland on nails, hooks, or I can tape it securely to my wall or mantel.

Then, I step back and admire my adorable pumpkin garland—I’ve just created the ultimate cozy fall décor!

DIY Fall Swag Garland: A Cozy & Rustic Autumn Decoration

Add cozy, rustic charm to your home with a DIY Fall Swag Garland!

Using seasonal elements like dried leaves, pinecones, burlap, and ribbon, create a beautiful, nature-inspired garland. Perfect for mantels, doorways, or as a table centerpiece, this simple project brings the warmth of autumn indoors.

Tools & Materials Required

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Fall Swag Garland

Step 1: Prepping the Jute Pumpkins

• Take your jute cord and wrap it around three fingers approximately 20 times to create a small bundle.
• Gently slide the looped bundle off your fingers, making sure to hold one side to maintain the shape.
• Cut a short piece of brown wire and wrap it tightly around the middle of the bundle, twisting it securely to form the pumpkin shape.
• Repeat this process until you have four jute pumpkins ready.

Step 2: Attaching the Cinnamon Stick Stems

• Take a cinnamon stick and place a small dot of hot glue on one end.
• Press the center of one jute pumpkin onto the glue, holding it in place until it sets.
• Repeat for the remaining three pumpkins.
• Allow the glue to dry completely before handling.

Step 3: Preparing the Floral and Leaf Accents

• Using wire cutters or scissors, trim the mums and maple leaves from their main stems.
• Cut individual pieces at various heights to create a balanced and layered look.
• Set them aside for easy placement in later steps.

Step 4: Cutting and Styling the Ribbon

• Measure and cut three 12-inch pieces of ribbon.
• To create a fishtail effect, fold each ribbon in half and make a diagonal cut from the folded edge toward the open edge.
• Unfold the ribbon to reveal a neatly cut fishtail design.

Step 5: Attaching the Ribbon to the Grapevine

• Take one piece of ribbon and pinch it in the center to create a gathered look.
• Secure it to the grapevine approximately 7 inches from the end using brown wire.
• Repeat on the opposite side at 7 inches in, and then attach the final piece at the center (approximately 23 inches in).
• Twist the brown wire around the grapevine securely.

Step 6: Arranging the Floral Accents

• Begin placing the maple leaves and mums around the swag, positioning them between the ribbons.
• Adjust their placement until you’re happy with the arrangement.
• Once finalized, secure each floral element with hot glue, ensuring a balanced and cohesive look.

Step 7: Attaching the Jute Pumpkins and Final Touches

• Position each jute pumpkin evenly along the swag garland, placing them in gaps between floral accents.
• Secure each pumpkin in place using hot glue, pressing them gently into the grapevine base.
• Allow all glue to dry completely.
• Step back and make any final adjustments—fluffing up the flowers, repositioning leaves, or curling ribbon tails for an extra beautiful touch.

What Are the Best Places to Hang a Pumpkin Garland?

Pumpkin garlands add that perfect touch of fall coziness to your home, but where should you actually put them?

Here are my favorite spots that make the most impact:

Mantels & Fireplaces

Draping a pumpkin garland across your mantel instantly creates a fall focal point.

The orange pops against white or neutral fireplaces, and it looks especially good when paired with a few real mini pumpkins or candles.

Stair Railings

Winding a garland along your staircase railing brings fall vibes to areas that are often overlooked.

I love how it greets guests as they move between floors.

Doorways & Entryways

Hanging a garland around your front door (inside or outside if covered) or over an interior doorway frames the space with seasonal charm.

Just make sure it’s high enough that people won’t bump into it!

Dining Areas

Draped across a buffet, sideboard, or even as table décor for special dinners, pumpkin garlands add festivity to mealtime gatherings.

Window Treatments

Hanging a garland across curtain rods or valances brings fall color to your windows without blocking natural light.

Bookshelves & Wall Shelves

Weaving a garland along shelving adds dimension to your regular décor and transforms everyday spaces.

Kitchen Areas

Don’t forget the kitchen! A garland across open shelving or along the top of cabinets brings seasonal warmth to the heart of your home.

Headboards

For serious fall lovers, a small garland across a headboard brings a cozy autumn feeling into your bedroom.

The best part about pumpkin garlands is their versatility.

They work in almost any spot where you’d like a touch of fall without taking up valuable surface space.

How Do I Preserve My Pumpkin Garland for Next Year

Keeping your pumpkin garland nice for next year is simple with these easy steps:

• First, dust it off gently before storing. For fabric pumpkins, use a soft cloth; for paper ones, just blow off the dust.
• Store your garland flat in a plastic bin or shoebox rather than stuffing it in a bag. I wrap mine in a figure-eight pattern and tie it loosely with twine to prevent tangles.
• Add tissue paper above and below the garland to protect it, and keep it in a cool, dry place like a closet – not a hot attic or damp basement.
• Label your container clearly so you can find it easily next fall, and check for any needed repairs when you take it out again.

These quick steps only take a few minutes but will keep your garland looking fresh for years!

The Bottom Line

Creating my own pumpkin garland brings the warm spirit of fall into my home without breaking the bank.

This simple craft transforms ordinary materials into a decoration that looks both professional and personal.

Whether it’s draped across my mantel, winding down my stair railing, or framing a doorway, my handmade garland adds that perfect autumn touch to spaces that might otherwise be overlooked.

The best part? With proper storage, my creation will bring joy for many fall seasons to come.

Ready to get crafting? Tell us in the comments how your pumpkin garland worked out!