Make Mod Podge Pumpkins with Maps!

Try a seasonal craft that is a bit different with these unique Mod Podge pumpkins! These DIY pumpkins are SO easy to make.

Skills Required: Beginner. It helps to have some experience with Mod Podge simply because you’ll be decoupaging paper down on a round surface (as opposed to flat).

There are so many creative ways out there to decorate pumpkins, and I’m going to show you one of my favorites that is no-carve. I’ve shared painted pumpkins before, so you’re familiar with that – but have you ever covered a pumpkin in maps?

This map wrapped Mod Podge pumpkin is fun and easy to put together. Plus it’s an amazing addition to any fall decor.

Mod Podge on Pumpkins

Before we dive into this project, I wanted to address a few commonly asked questions/issues you might have about how to make this cute fall craft. I hope these help you in your pumpkin decorating journey!

Real vs. Fake

Should you use real or fake when making Mod Podge pumpkins? It’s something that people are always wondering and good news . . . the answer is you can use both! It doesn’t matter if you use a real pumpkin or a fake pumpkin. Either will work.

The advantage of fake pumpkins is that they last for years. The best place I’ve found to get them is either AliExpress or Oriental Trading Company. Michaels has them too (use a coupon!). A real pumpkin can only be used for a season and will have to be tossed, though it will be cheaper.

Preparing the Maps

There’s nothing that you need to do to the maps to get them ready for this DIY pumpkins project, aside from cutting them into either strips or small squares. If you decide to photocopy a map, it’s ideal to use laserjet instead of inkjet to avoid ink smearing everywhere.

Having said that, you can print them on inkjet, spray both sides of the printouts with clear acrylic sealer, and then let dry overnight. You should then be able to Mod Podge them without as much bleeding.

Dealing with Wrinkles

If you apply the map to the pumpkin in strips, you’re likely going to get wrinkles in the map. That’s because of the round shape of the pumpkin vs. the flat paper. There are a few pieces of advice I have for you if this is frustrating.

First, you can cut the map into smaller pieces and apply it that way. Second, you could cut darts in the paper (cut a “V” like you would in a sewing pattern) and overlap as you’re Mod Podging. Third, you can simply love the wrinkles.

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Are you ready to try these Mod Podge pumpkins? Keep reading!

Making Mod Podge Pumpkins

To make these DIY pumpkins, you only need a few things:

• A pumpkin (real or fake; mine was real)
• Old maps
• Mod Podge Gloss
• Scissors
• Acrylic Paint (I chose blue)
• Brush

First, wipe down the pumpkin with a damp paper towel to make sure all the dirt is removed and let dry. Then paint the stem with your desired craft paint color and allow to dry. This usually takes anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour.

Cut the map into random strips. Brush a medium layer of Mod Podge down onto the pumpkin. Lay down the map strips and allow to dry for a few minutes.

Brush a thick layer of Mod Podge on top of the strips. Continue to overlap the map strips and secure with Mod Podge. Press the strips down with your fingertip.

Allow the entire pumpkin to dry to the touch and then add another layer of Mod Podge over the top to secure the pages completely.

I love how modern and cool my map pumpkin looks! Tip: if you’d like to display this pumpkin outside during the fall months, use Outdoor Mod Podge.

You don’t necessary have to use Outdoor Mod Podge if this is under a covered porch or in an area exposed to the elements. Gloss or Matte Mod Podge will work just fine!

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This craft is part of our fall crafts for adults and Dollar Tree fall crafts! Do you love these Mod Podge pumpkins covered in maps? Then you’re also going to love these pumpkin projects:

• The Easiest Pumpkin Decorations for Fall
• Day of the Dead Pumpkin Craft
• How to Make a Pumpkin Vase
• Decorate a Pumpkin with Duck Tape