A familiar symbol of autumn, pumpkin decorations made from recycled garments are a wonderful way to bring warmth and character into the home. These DIY fabric pumpkins use upcycled materials, such as sturdy denim, patterned cotton shirts, or soft, knitted jumpers to create tactile ornaments, perfect for seasonal displays. Repurposing old shirts, worn-out trousers, and forgotten socks, each handmade pumpkin becomes a unique piece of sustainable autumn décor or a thoughtful homemade gift. This easy craft project not only celebrates the charm of fabric pumpkins but also gives new life to unwanted clothes, adding creativity and cosiness to every corner of the home as the days grow shorter.
Materials you will need
Old clothing with sleeves and legs
Sharp fabric scissors
Needle and thread
Scraps of fabric or stuffing
Thick string or macramé cord
How to make a fabric pumpkin
Step 1.
To make one pumpkin, cut a 14in (36cm) section of trouser leg or a 10in (25cm) section of sleeve to create a tube of fabric. Turn this inside out and sew long running stitch around one end of the tube. Pull the thread tight, gathering the fabric and closing the end. Adding a few extra stitches ensures a firm finish.
Step 2.
Turn the tube the right way out – so the pattern is on the outside – and stuff with scraps of fabric or stuffing to create a squat, rounded shape.
Step 3.
Close the open end of the tube with running stitch, pull firmly shut, and cut off any excess fabric.
Step 4.
Cut a piece of cord, long enough to wrap around the pumpkin five times. With the top facing upwards, place the pumpkin on a flat surface, over the centre point of the cord. Lifting the cord up, tie a double knot at the top, gently squashing in the pumpkin. Repeat this process twice, turning the pumpkin each time to tie at the bottom and then at the top again, dividing it into six, equal sections.
Step 5.
Trapping a second, short length of cord in the first knot, tie the two remaining ends tightly together, at least six times, to create a stalk.
Step 6.
Once the stalk is the desired length, cut the excess off. Fray the ends of the short cord, trapped in the base knot, to create the tendrils of the pumpkin, and trim to the desired length.
Finished project
Try our other seasonal fabric crafts or subscribe to LandScape magazine today, packed full of inspirational ideas!
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Rachel Hawkins is a lifelong craft enthusiast and the respected editor of LandScape magazine. With more than 30 years in publishing, Rachel creates and curates inspiring DIY projects that blend traditional skills with modern creativity. She’s a trusted voice for readers seeking authentic, hands-on craft inspiration. Follow her on Instagram @rachel_hawkins_craft.