If you’re looking for a fall craft that’s cozy, rustic, and totally budget-friendly, a DIY book page pumpkin is the perfect project. Instead of tossing old or thrifted books, you can repurpose them into a gorgeous pumpkin that makes a statement on your autumn table, mantel, or bookshelf. Moms will especially love this craft because it’s easy to do while sipping your coffee, and the finished piece looks like something you’d find in a boutique.

Supplies You’ll Need

• An old paperback book (around 150–200 pages works best)
• Scissors or a craft knife
• Hot glue gun or tacky glue
• Pencil
• Piece of twine, ribbon, or raffia
• Small stick or cinnamon stick for the stem

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Prepare the Book

Grab a book you don’t mind cutting up—thrift stores are goldmines for this. Remove the front and back covers so you’re left with just the pages.

Step 2: Trace Your Pumpkin Shape

Fold a sheet of paper in half and sketch half a pumpkin shape along the fold. Cut it out to create a template, then trace it onto your book pages.

Step 3: Cut the Pages

Use scissors or a craft knife to cut along your pumpkin outline. Don’t worry if the edges aren’t perfect—imperfection adds rustic charm!

Step 4: Glue the Spine

Run a line of hot glue down the inside spine of the book to hold the pages securely together.

Step 5: Fan Out the Pages

Start fanning out the pages to create the round pumpkin shape. You may need to gently bend the spine to help it open more fully. This may take some time to fan out each page, but worth it!

Step 6: Add the Stem and Finishing Touches

Glue a small stick or cinnamon stick to the top as the stem. Wrap twine, raffia, or ribbon around it for a finished look.

Styling Your Book Page Pumpkin

This DIY book page pumpkin looks beautiful anywhere you’d normally style fall décor. Try grouping a few pumpkins of different sizes together as a centerpiece, or place one on a stack of books for a cozy, layered effect. Add a fall candle and some faux leaves, and you’ve got instant autumn charm.

Why You’ll Love This DIY

• Budget-friendly and eco-friendly
• Easy enough to make in under an hour
• Adds rustic farmhouse vibes to your fall decorating
• Perfect craft to do with friends during a cozy coffee date or book club night

FAQ

Can I use a hardcover book?

Yes, but a paperback is easier to cut through. If you only have a hardcover, just remove the covers first.

Do I have to cut every page individually?

Nope! Stack several pages at a time when cutting. The shape doesn’t need to be perfect.

How do I make the pumpkin fuller?

The thicker the book, the fuller the pumpkin. You can also glue two books together for an extra-plush look.

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