If you’re looking for a way to spice up your autumnal decor this year, then why not introduce an unexpected dark and moody teal blue to the mix? This deep jewel tone plays nicely with harvest colors like golds, burgundys and browns and seamlessly adds a cool relief to the otherwise warm landscape. Mini pumpkin votives are a snap to make and add a wonderful glow as the cooler Fall temps set in. Won’t these be lovely on the Thanksgiving tablescape?

Materials:

Mini pumpkinsPen or markerParing knifePainter’s tape (optional)Small spreader or spoonSpray paint – I used Montana Gold in color PetrolVotive candles

1. Draw a circle, just slightly smaller than the diameter of your votive candle, around the pumpkin stem.

2. Use paring knife to cut out circle/stem, by “sawing” along the pen line deep enough to cut through the pumpkin thickness. Then grab the stem and rock it back in forth to remove.

3. Scoop out the pumpkin seeds and flesh. Then rinse and dry the inside of the pumpkin to help delay rotting.

4. Next stuff the pumpkin with paper and spray paint the pumpkin in a well ventilated area. Apply 2 coats and allow each coat to dry before applying the next. Once fully coated and dry, remove the stuffing. Also, I wanted the stem to remain it’s natural color, so I taped it off before spray painting. Whether you choose to do this step or not is totally up to you. A fully color-blocked pumpkin would be pretty too!

5. Next, hover the votive over the top hole to determine if the votive will be a snug fit, or if you need to open up the hole a bit more. I cut the hole smaller than the votive initially, as I wanted to make sure I didn’t cut the hole too large. If the hole is too large your votive will fall through into the pumpkin. If you need to cut the hole a littler larger, use your paring knife to shave down the edges until you can snugly wedge the votive into the opening.

Once the votives are in the pumpkins, light them up and enjoy the autumnal glow!