This year I realized the word “pumpkin” practically begs for puns, so we made some DIY “pun-kins.” These are easy, colorful pumpkins with witty phrases transferred onto them using tattoo paper — perfect if your handwriting isn’t your strong suit. Ready to make some?
Supplies:
Pun printables (print the mirrored files onto tattoo paper)
Pumpkins
Craft paint
Tattoo paper
Damp towel or paper towel
If you have neat handwriting, a paint marker works well instead of transfers.
How to make pun-kins:
- Paint your pumpkins the colors you like. A white base coat helps colors appear more vibrant.
- Download and print the mirrored pun designs onto tattoo paper, following the specific instructions for the brand you purchased.
- If required by your tattoo paper, press a clear adhesive sheet over the printed design and trim each phrase separately for easier application.
- Have a damp cloth or paper towel ready, but keep the tattoo dry until it’s positioned on the pumpkin. Peel away the clear backing, leaving the adhesive and ink on the transfer sheet. Position the transfer on the pumpkin and press firmly, then rub the paper backing with a wet cloth for 10–15 seconds. Carefully peel the paper away to reveal the transferred text.
- For larger phrases or very rounded pumpkins work in sections or cut the transfer into smaller pieces and apply one word or segment at a time.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
We also paired our pumpkins with matching pun shirts for a coordinated look.
Have a favorite Halloween pun? Share it — we’d love to hear!
p.s. Donut pumpkins are another fun variation to try.