Paper Mache Pumpkin Topiary

I first saw pumpkin topiaries just after Halloween 2009. I knew right away that I wanted to make them the next year for our front porch. I had no idea the foam pumpkins were as pricey as they are (even with sales or discounts, 6 of them really added up). I never found pots or urns within my budget, either. So, I put that project on hold...at least for another year. Then, back in June, I found these awesome urns for $3.00, at the grocery store! Suddenly, pumpkin topiaries were in my head again and I began thinking of a cheap alternative to the foam pumpkins. Here is my finished topiary. I made with the pumpkins with newspaper, flour, and water (aka paper mache).

 This is how I made the pumpkins (except I used newspaper as filler instead of plastic bags).  It was time consuming, but I figured it was worth it (at least that's what I kept telling myself). Mine didn't turn out smooth enough to paint, so I decided to follow the trend and use Mod-Podge and fabric to cover them. The fabric was left over from a quilt I never finished started and the colors were perfect for fall. I bought some silk leaves and hot glued them between the layers. The toppers were left over from another project. I filled the pots with rocks and stuffed them with hay. They are under a covered porch, but I still might spray them with a protective finish.

Each topiary cost less than $5.00. But, best of all, they are done!

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