the most popular pumpkin DIY to try this fall

A LESSON IN HOW TO SNAPCHAT FILTER YOUR PUMPKINS.

text by  ALYSSA CLOUGH photography by  MICHAEL WILTBANK

Another year, another pop culture-focused pumpkin DIY for Halloween. This year’s trend of choice? Snapchat filters. Emoji’s are SO last year (though we’ll probably make them again anyway because they’re too cute.) The good news is that with the help of some paint (available for purchase for less than $1 at most craft stores), paint brushes, and a pumpkin or two, anyone can participate in the fun for just a few dollars. The bad news is that drawing and crafting can be hard. Of course, we have all the expert tips to help you paint your prettiest pumpkin yet. Keep reading for detailed instructions!

PUMPKIN #1:rainbow vomit filter

SUPPLIES:

• A rainbow supply of paint
• Large googly eyes
• Modge Podge, or other transparent-drying glue
• Silver glitter

STEP 1: Though this Snapchat filter is an oldie but a goodie, the pumpkin was the office favorite. Start by Googling a photo of the filter, as it’s no longer available on the app, for reference. Then, on a piece of scrap paper, draw a large circle in the shape of your pumpkin. As a pumpkin painting veteran, I highly suggest sketching out your design before moving onto the pumpkin. Draw the eyes to size and the upper lip and teeth before waving down what will be your rainbow. The green section of the rainbow will be in the center divide of the pumpkin’s two front teeth.

STEP 2: Once you’re pleased with how your drawing looks, it’s time to make an outline on your pumpkin. If you use an ink pen (I prefer these Sharpie fine point pens), you’ll be able to easily wipe away mistakes and try again. Place your eyes first, then start with the mouth, and outline the rainbow.

STEP 3: With paint, fill in the rainbow from the center to the left, then center to right. It took a few coats of paint for our colors to be completely opaque, so get ready to wash your brush! Wait for your masterpiece to dry and dab or sponge Modge Podge onto the cheeks and rainbow of your pumpkin, pat on glitter, and you’re done!

PUMPKIN #2: “coachella” flower crown filter

SUPPLIES:

• An assortment of fake florals
• E-6000, or another brand of strong hold glue
• Blue, pink, white, andblack paint

STEP 1: Smize like you mean it… In the selfie you take with the infamous flower crown filter in Snapchat. Use your selfie (yes, seriously) to then sketch the eyes, eyelashes, and mouth on a scrap piece of paper.

STEP 2: Use your photo to help layout your flowers in the order you expect to apply them. It’s okay if they don’t match the filter one-hundred percent, just do what looks pretty to you! Glue the flowers on one-by-one and apply firm pressure until you’re certain your adhesive is dry.

STEP 3: Draw and paint in your eyes and mouth. Make sure not to forget the exaggerated eyelashes

PUMPKIN #3: dog filter

SUPPLIES: Pink, brown, white, and black paint

STEP 1: The hardest part of the dog to draw is its ears. Practice the s-like shape on a separate sheet of paper and don’t get discouraged! After you master the ears, draw a pair, then the snout, tongue, and finally, eyes.

STEP 2: Draw your pup on the pumpkin and paint accordingly. If you’re feeling ambitious, try a bit of shading!

Want more halloween? We have more budget-friendly DIYs.