🎃 Step by Step: How to Paint Halloween Pumpkins with Gouache

Halloween is all about atmosphere, bright colors, and a touch of magic 👻✨.

And what could be more festive than painting your own funny little pumpkins?

This masterclass is perfect even for beginners: simple shapes, clear steps, and a stunning result.

What you’ll need:

• gouache (Orange Red, Yellow Ochre, Sand, Burnt Umber, White, Metallic Copper, Black);
• brushes of different sizes;
• a pencil;
• thick paper.

Step 1 – Light Sketch

On a blank sheet, lightly sketch pumpkins with a pencil. They can be round, long, crooked — it’s all up to your imagination. Don’t press too hard; the lines should easily hide under the paint.

Step 2 – Outlines & Palette

Add stems and refine the shapes. Prepare three base colors: Orange Red, Sand, and Yellow Ochre. These will be the foundation for filling your pumpkins.

Step 3 – Base Color Fill

Fill the pumpkins with these three shades. You can blend Orange Red with Yellow Ochre to create smooth transitions. Leave small spots unpainted for future highlights.

Step 4 – Faces & Contours

Now it’s time for our favorite — Burnt Umber! Use it to draw the faces, outline the pumpkins, and paint the stems. This shade gives your artwork expression and character.

Step 5 – White Highlights

Take white paint and add a few shiny strokes. These highlights will make the pumpkins look voluminous and “alive.”

Step 6 – A Touch of Magic

For the final sparkle, add Metallic Copper to bring a festive glow. And if you want the eyes to stand out more, use a bit of black.

The Result✨

And here you have it — your Halloween pumpkins are ready! Easy, fun, and full of festive spirit. Paint together with kids or friends, create a cozy Halloween mood, and don’t be afraid to experiment with colors.