AUTUMN VIBES

Making fabric pumpkins

🍂 Autumn Vibes 🍁

There’s something so cosy about autumn — the rich colours, the textures, the feeling of home. I’ve been getting into the spirit with a little seasonal sewing project: fabric pumpkins!

They’re a great way to use up fabric scraps and bring a touch of handmade warmth to your home décor. Each one turns out slightly different, depending on the fabric you use, which makes them even more charming.

I love getting sidetracked by projects like this — simple, satisfying, and full of autumn comfort.

Here’s how to make your own 👇

Step-by-Step Guide

Select your fabric – Go for autumnal tones and rich textures like cord, velvet, or cotton. It’s a great project for leftover fabric scraps.
Cut your fabric – The width should be double the height. I used 16 inches x 8 inches for mine.
Sew the side seam – Fold your fabric in half, right sides together, and sew down the open edge to make a tube. You can use a sewing machine or sew by hand.
Gather one end – Using a running stitch, sew around one open end and pull the thread tight to gather. Wrap the thread around a few times and stitch securely.
Turn right side out – Flip your fabric so the right side is showing.
Fill your pumpkin – Use toy stuffing or chopped fabric scraps for a more eco-friendly filler.
Gather the other end – Repeat the running stitch around the open end and pull tight to close.
Shape your pumpkin – Run your thread through the centre of the shape from top to bottom and pull firmly to create that distinct pumpkin shape.
Add the segments – Wrap the thread around the pumpkin four times to form those classic segmented details, spacing them evenly around.
Tie off your thread – Secure your stitches firmly at the top.
Create the leaves – Cut small leaf shapes from leftover fabric (I used silk scraps) and hand-draw the leaf veins for extra charm.
Make a stalk – Roll or twist a small piece of cardboard, wrap it in hessian ribbon or string, and secure with a glue gun.
Assemble your pumpkin – Using a glue gun, attach the leaves and stalk to the top.

These little pumpkins are full of autumn personality — perfect for shelves, tables, or window displays. They also make lovely handmade gifts to share a bit of seasonal cheer.

🍁 Let’s celebrate the season

I’d love to know your favourite autumn crafts — feel free to share them in the comments below!

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s a lovely reminder to make the most of each season. Whether it’s crafting, baking, walking through fallen leaves, or simply lighting a candle and getting cosy, there’s so much beauty in slowing down and embracing the good in every moment.

Thank you for reading.

Fran x