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DIY Gumball Machine Pumpkin: Easy Vintage Halloween Decor Tutorial

Introduction

Halloween decorations don't need to be spooky. As a seasoned crafter, Ryan Reed shows how to turn a pumpkin into a charming vintage gumball machine, bringing vibrant color to your porch.

DIY Gumball Machine Pumpkin: Easy Vintage Halloween Decor TutorialFrom: Ryan Reed

Step 1

DIY Gumball Machine Pumpkin: Easy Vintage Halloween Decor TutorialFrom: Ryan Reed

Remove the Stem from the Pumpkin

Cut off the pumpkin's stem with a knife, ensuring enough is removed so the saucer sits steadily on top.

Save the removed stem piece for later.

Pro Tip

Always cut away from your body for safety.

Step 2

DIY Gumball Machine Pumpkin: Easy Vintage Halloween Decor TutorialFrom: Ryan Reed

Glue the Saucer to the Pumpkin

Apply a thin line of hot glue around the edge of the red planter saucer. Position it where the stem was and press firmly for a few seconds until secure.

Glue the saved stem to the saucer's top, making it appear as if it grew through the lid.

Pro Tip

Use minimal glue due to the small contact area between saucer and pumpkin.

Step 3

DIY Gumball Machine Pumpkin: Easy Vintage Halloween Decor TutorialFrom: Ryan Reed

Glue the Base Pot to the Pumpkin

Flip the red planter, add glue to its bottom, then press the pumpkin onto it firmly until secure.

Step 4

DIY Gumball Machine Pumpkin: Easy Vintage Halloween Decor TutorialFrom: Ryan Reed

Attach the Gumballs

With lid and base in place, gauge the pumpkin area to cover. Dot glue on each gumball, starting at the top, and work evenly around. Avoid burns from hot glue.

Pro Tip

Opt for larger gumballs to save time, though smaller ones create a fuller look.

Step 5

DIY Gumball Machine Pumpkin: Easy Vintage Halloween Decor TutorialFrom: Ryan Reed

Add Coin Slot and Dispensing Opening

Tear aluminum foil, trace and cut a circle with '25¢' marked in the center using a black marker.

Draw and cut an arc for the gumball dispenser.

Glue both to the base planter.

Pro Tip

Trace a perfect circle using a household item like a salt shaker.

Step 6

Important Safety Note

Do not eat the gumballs or let others do so. The hot glue is non-edible and unsafe for consumption.