How to Knit Pumpkin Decorations

Pumpkins have become an iconic symbol of Halloween due to a combination of cultural traditions, folklore, and practical factors. The second that back-to-school is out of the way, pumpkins appear in the shop, pumpkin-spiced everything is enjoyed and the pick-your-own-pumpkin patches start opening with all sorts of games and activities.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Halloween began to evolve from a sombre, religious holiday into a more festive, community-oriented celebration. Pumpkins, already a key part of American fall harvests, were easily integrated into these celebrations. The practice of carving jack-o'-lanterns out of pumpkins became widespread, with people placing these glowing lanterns outside their homes as a way to ward off evil spirits, in keeping with the supernatural themes of Halloween. Over time, these carved pumpkins took on an artistic element, with more elaborate designs symbolising creativity, mischief, and the spirit of the holiday.

Additionally, pumpkins naturally align with the timing of Halloween. The holiday is celebrated at the end of October, which coincides with the pumpkin harvest in many parts of North America and here in the UK .

Pumpkins' warm orange colour and their association with the autumn season make them a perfect fit for Halloween décor and festivities. They symbolise the end of the growing season and the approach of winter, adding to the eerie, mystical atmosphere that surrounds Halloween.

However, you don't have to buy and carve a pumpkin as you can craft them in many ways. When we hear craft, we are always ready for action. We both decided, after years of wanting to try, we were both going to have a go at knitting a pumpkin. The principle to knit pumpkin decorations is actually quite simple, though one of us had a lot more success than the other, but we won't reveal who... (we're sure you can probably guess!!)

They are very easy to knit using basic knit and purl stitches and there are lots of free patterns available online. We used one from Handy little me and this also gives you a step by step guide making this quick easy and fun little crafting project to knit pumpkin decorations.

We used sticks from the the garden to make the stalks of our pumpkins and made a simple chain with a crochet hook to make the tendrils but you can knit them if you wanted and just go with your own creative flare.

If you're having a go, we'd love to see you knit pumpkin decorations and the results of your efforts!