I am always looking for unique ways to upcycle, and I always seem to have an abundance of pool noodle pieces on hand. These DIY Yarn Pumpkins are a great way to use some of those pool noodle pieces and leftover bits of yarn. Made from pieces of a pool noodle wrapped in yarn, these pumpkins are inexpensive, lightweight, and surprisingly easy to make. Add a simple stem and a couple of leaves, and you have an adorable pumpkin that can be used throughout your fall decorating.
When I made my Pool Noodle Sheep, I started thinking about all the things you can make from pool noodles. The options seem to be endless.
Why You’ll Love These DIY Yarn Pumpkins
These little yarn pumpkins are one of those crafts that are simple enough for anyone to make but still look great when they’re finished.
- They require only a few supplies.
- They’re inexpensive to make.
- You can use almost any colour of yarn.
- They’re lightweight and easy to add to decor.
- They’re perfect for fall and Thanksgiving decorating.
- They’re a great way to use leftover craft supplies.
- No sewing is required!
You can make a whole collection of pumpkins in different colours and sizes to create a cute fall display.
Supplies List
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- Pool noodle
- Chunky Yarn
- Quilt Batting – Optional for taller pumpkins
- Drawstring Threading tool
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Small piece of wood, twig, or other material for the stem
- Felt or faux leaves
- Canary Cutting Tool (optional)
How to Make DIY Yarn Pumpkins
Step 1: Cut the Pool Noodle
Start by cutting the pool noodle into a short section.
The length of the piece will determine the height of your pumpkin, so you can make your pumpkins as small or large as you like. * See tips for making taller pumpkins below)
A Canary cutting tool works amazingly well for cutting through the pool noodles, but if you prefer, you can use a serrated knife.
Tip: Keep your fingers safely away from the blade while cutting and use a stable surface.
Step 2: Wrap the Pool Noodle With Yarn
Cut a length of yarn and begin wrapping it around the pool noodle. To make this easier to manage and reduce knotting, cut shorter lengths and glue them as you go.
Use a drawstring threading tool to make wrapping the noodle easy.
Wrap the yarn around the foam by inserting the threading tool through the hole and up and over and back through the hole, until the entire noodle is covered.
Try to keep the yarn fairly close together and straight as you work so that the pumpkin has a uniform shape.
You can occasionally add a small dot of hot glue to help hold the yarn in place, if necessary, or secure ends to start a new piece of yarn.
Step 3: Secure the Yarn
Once the pool noodle is completely covered, cut the yarn and secure the end with a small amount of hot glue.
Tuck the end into the top of the pumpkin, pressing it into the center, so that it isn’t noticeable.
At this point, you should have a simple yarn-covered cylinder that will become your pumpkin.
Step 4: Add the Stem
Cut a small piece of wood or a twig to use as the pumpkin stem.
Apply a little hot glue to the bottom of the stem and attach it to the top of the yarn-covered pool noodle.
Hold it in place for a few seconds while the glue sets.
A small twig gives the pumpkin a more natural, rustic appearance, but you can also use a small piece of a wooden dowel or another decorative stem.
Step 5: Add the Leaves and Accents
Finish your pumpkin by adding one or two small leaves.
You can cut leaves from green felt, use faux leaves, or make your own leaves from another material.
Attach the leaves beside the stem with hot glue.
I like to add pipe cleaners or heavy wire curled to make it a little whimsical. All optional, of course.
And that’s it!
Your DIY yarn pumpkin is ready to use in your decor.
Tips for Making DIY Yarn Pumpkins
Keep the Yarn Snug
As you wrap the yarn, keep it reasonably snug around the pool noodle without pulling too tight, causing the noodle to distort or tear. Keep the yarn as straight as possible. This will help create a neat, finished appearance.
Make Different Sizes
One of the easiest ways to create an interesting fall display is to make pumpkins in several sizes.
Cut some pieces of pool noodle shorter and others slightly longer to create a collection of pumpkins with varying heights.
For creating taller yarn pumpkins, add a bit of polyfil around the outside, making it thicker in the center. This just creates a more pumpkin-y shape when finished. It is more difficult to use. A longer drawstring threader tool will be needed for larger diy yarn pumpkins.
These easy DIY yarn pumpkins are a fun way to add a little handmade charm to your fall decorating. They’re inexpensive, quick to make, and can be customized with different yarn colours and sizes to match your decorating style.
This website contains affiliate links. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases (at no cost to you).