Craft Festive Fall Decor with a DIY Pumpkin Sponge Holder

Pumpkins as Festive Fall Decor

As the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, decorating for autumn is a beloved tradition. Pumpkins are a quintessential part of fall decorating and their bright orange colors and plump shapes inspire creativity. Many classic decor ideas featuring pumpkins focus on carving jack-o-lanterns or using mini decorative pumpkins to adorn front porches and mantles.

However, pumpkins can be incorporated into DIY fall decor in many unique ways beyond these conventional approaches. One such creative DIY is to transform a faux pumpkin into a serving tray or holder for appetizers, desserts, and drinks.

Crafting a Pumpkin Sponge Holder

This simple pumpkin sponge holder project involves attaching a plate from the dollar store onto a faux pumpkin. With just a bit of hot glue and maybe some decorative embellishments, you can fashion a festive fall serving piece.

Start by purchasing a plastic or ceramic decorative pumpkin, ideally with an opening at the top where the stem attaches. Carefully break off or cut off the stem so you have a smooth opening. Make sure no sharp edges remain.

Next, choose a plate, platter, or tray that will fit securely into the opening at the top of the pumpkin. Shallow, wide plates work very well for balancing food or decorative items. The dollar store is an affordable source for basic white plastic or ceramic plates and trays.

Assembling the Pumpkin Holder

With the top of the pumpkin prepped and the tray selected, assemble the pieces with strong hot glue. Turn the pumpkin upside down and firmly glue the plate centered over and flush to the hacked stem opening. Be generous with the hot glue for maximum stability.

Allow adequate drying time as specified on the glue package. Once fully dried, flip over the pumpkin sponge holder and decorate as desired. Wrapping some ribbon where the plate meets the pumpkin adds a nice touch.

Filling and Displaying the Holder

Now the fun part - fill your creative pumpkin sponge holder with faux autumn leaves, candy, baked goods, dip, nuts, flowers or any other decorative items! The shallow tray shape is perfect for displaying appetizers at fall dinner parties.

For desserts, glue a dollhouse-sized cake or pie plate onto the larger tray. Or skip the food and use it as a candle stand or autumn potpourri holder. Place your completed project on the dining table, front porch steps, fireplace mantel or anywhere else that needs some seasonal charm.

More DIY Fall Decor Tips and Tricks

The pumpkin sponge holder is one of many simple, budget-friendly DIY fall decor projects that are easy to tackle. Here are some additional ideas for do-it-yourself autumn accents:

• Paint cheap terra cotta pots in fall colors and use as table decor
• Decorate wood crates or cardboard boxes with burlap, leaves, etc. to store fruits/veggies
• Make mini pumpkin votives from real or faux pumpkins

If hosting an autumn get-together, impress your guests with a hot apple cider bar. Simmer cinnamon sticks, orange slices, cranberries, cloves and other aromatic ingredients in apple cider on the stovetop. Arrange the spiced cider and mix-in garnishes in your pumpkin sponge holder for a warm sip that feels perfectly festive.

As you can see, with a bit of creativity, dollar store items, and seasonal inspiration you can craft wonderful DIY fall decorations. The pumpkin sponge holder is a unique centerpiece for autumnal DIY projects. Display it prominently or gift it to share the fall fun.

FAQs

What items do I need to make a pumpkin sponge holder?

You need a faux pumpkin, a plate/tray/platter from a dollar store, hot glue, and ribbon or other decorative embellishments (optional).

What can I use my pumpkin sponge holder for?

You can use it to display and serve fall-themed appetizers, baked goods, flowers, potpourri, candles, and more. Get creative with decorating and filling it!

How long does the hot glue take to dry when assembling the holder?

Refer to the specific hot glue package directions, but generally the bond will fully set in 5-10 minutes. Allow adequate drying time before flipping over the finished piece.

Can I make more than one pumpkin sponge holder?

Absolutely! Making matching pumpkin sponge holders allows cohesive fall decor. Just scale up the supplies. They also make great homemade gifts.