Notes: I decided to try and present directions best I could since I had so many requests for instructions. I hope this helps. I think part of the success of this project is to have a beautiful velvet. I used a silk velvet. As much as I love white, I think the velvet fabric colors that show depth are more beautiful – you can’t really see depth in the white. They did not carry silk velvet at the local craft store or many of the fabric stores. I was able to find it at a fabric store in Norwalk, CT called Banksville Designer Fabrics (www.banksvilledesignerfabrics.com). I am sure there must be some sources online also, but I didn’t check. Banksville had a half yard minimum which cost $12.50. With a half yard you can probably make approximately twenty 7″ pumpkins. A 5 lb. bag of rice would probably be sufficient for a dozen pumpkins. Rice is pretty inexpensive, so if you plan on making a lot of pumpkins, buy a huge bag. Stems can be found at pumpkin farms from unwanted pumpkins or squash. I think the crazier stems you can find, the better – the stem can really add personality to the pumpkin. If you don’t have any farms nearby, you can purchase a small pumpkin for a $1 at a grocery store if you have no other way to get a stem. I think part of the beauty of these pumpkins are the real stems, but I have seen people use sticks from trees or cinnamon sticks on fabric pumpkins. I think driftwood is also a fun option. Of course, you can use the same procedure I demonstrate to make pumpkins from other fabrics. I love to seek out new fabrics…like at Mood in New York City. I also often use fishing line instead of thread (particularly on larger pieces) since it is so strong and won’t break. If you aren’t crafty or would rather purchase some really beautiful velvet pumpkins rather than make them, look at http://www.hotskwash.com/hot-skwash-online-store/ . This is the company that made the pumpkins that inspired me to try and create some and they sell them in an amazing array of colors. If you have any questions on how I created mine, please send me an email and I would be happy to help you out!
Thanks for visiting, Jackie