Key Takeaways
- Learn how to make DIY pumpkin pillows with or without sewing.
- Choose from different shapes, textures, and fillings for fall decor that fits your home style.
- Discover easy no-sew pumpkin pillow projects perfect for quick seasonal updates.
- Add festive flair to bedrooms, living rooms, porches, and even guest spaces.
As the leaves change and cooler nights settle in, few things feel cozier than snuggling up with seasonal touches like pumpkin-shaped pillows.
Whether you’re decorating a fall mantel or layering up your bed for extra texture and charm, making your own DIY pumpkin pillows is a fun and rewarding project for any skill level.
How to Make Pumpkin Pillows
Making a pumpkin pillow is as easy as sewing a circle and pulling a few threads—really!
Materials:
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Fabric (velvet, cotton, flannel, or fleece work well)
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Scissors
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Sewing needle and thread or sewing machine
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Polyfill or pillow stuffing
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Embroidery floss or thick yarn (for pumpkin ridges)
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Felt or fabric scraps (for the stem)
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Hot glue or fabric glue (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cut a circle: Use a large bowl or lid to trace a circle onto the fabric. Sizes can range from 12" to 24" depending on the look you want.
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Sew a running stitch around the edge**: Use sturdy thread and stitch about ½" from the edge.
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Pull the thread to gather the fabric into a pouch, leaving just enough room to add stuffing.
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Stuff generously with polyfill to create a firm, round pumpkin shape.
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Pull the thread tight and secure with a knot.
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Add pumpkin ridges by wrapping embroidery floss or yarn from top to bottom, knotting each pass through the center.
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Create the stem: Roll a felt scrap into a small cone or stem and glue or sew it to the center.
Our kids each made their own versions with different fabrics last fall—we used a mix of orange flannel, corduroy, and plaid remnants. They turned out so cute, we added a few to our guest room for a festive touch—right on top of our Puffy Lux Mattress, which makes every fall nap even better.
DIY No-Sew Pumpkin Pillows
Short on time or sewing skills? No worries. Here’s how to create DIY no-sew pumpkin pillows just as easily.
What You’ll Need:
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Stretchy fabric like fleece or jersey
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Rubber band or strong thread
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Pillow fill or old plastic bags for stuffing
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Twine or yarn for pumpkin segments
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Hot glue gun
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Cinnamon sticks or felt for the stem
Quick Instructions:
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Lay fabric flat: Cut a circle or simply bunch the fabric into a pouch.
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Stuff the center with filling.
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Gather and secure the top with a rubber band or tied string.
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Wrap yarn around the pumpkin to create ridges.
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Glue in a cinnamon stick or fabric stem for a natural finish.
These are great for quick projects, party favors, or last-minute fall decorating. You can even make mini versions to place at each seat during Thanksgiving dinner!
Best Fabrics for Pumpkin Pillows
| Fabric Type | Look & Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Velvet | Luxurious, plush | Formal or decorative accents |
| Fleece | Cozy, soft | Kid-friendly or no-sew projects |
| Cotton | Classic, breathable | Traditional home decor |
| Flannel | Rustic, warm | Fall-themed and farmhouse style |
Nothing pairs better with layers of flannel and cozy textures than the breathability of a Puffy Royal Mattress—especially when the temperature starts to drop and you want warmth without overheating.
Creative Ways to Use Pumpkin Pillows
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Stack in a basket near the fireplace or entryway for a welcoming seasonal display.
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Layer on beds and sofas with chunky knit throws and complementary fall-toned pillows.
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Toss onto porch rockers with fall wreaths and lanterns to create a cozy outdoor vignette.
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Add to kids’ play areas for festive fun and soft seating during storytime or movie nights.
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Use in guest bedrooms to add an autumnal touch that makes visitors feel right at home.
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Incorporate into tablescapes as centerpieces or under glass cloches for a charming, rustic vibe.
They also make thoughtful handmade gifts, especially when you tailor the fabric to a loved one’s style or home color scheme.
You can even personalize them with embroidered initials, seasonal patterns, or scented sachets tucked inside for an extra layer of sensory delight.
Styling Tips
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Mix textures like burlap, velvet, and plaid for visual interest. Combining different fabric finishes brings depth and makes the display feel more inviting.
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Stick to a palette (orange, cream, rust, sage, and gold) to make the room feel cohesive. Keeping within a defined color range ensures your pumpkin pillows look intentional and harmonized with other fall decor.
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Use odd numbers (three or five pillows) for more natural, styled arrangements. Odd-numbered groupings tend to feel balanced and relaxed, perfect for a cozy, lived-in space. Consider varying sizes and heights to add dimension as well.
Final Thoughts
From porch to playroom, DIY pumpkin pillows are an easy way to celebrate fall with creativity and warmth.
Whether you go for a handmade stitched version or a speedy no-sew project, the charm and comfort they add to your space are unmatched—and so much fun to make.
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