Every Halloween I end up with those cheap plastic pumpkin buckets lying around—usually from the kids’ trick-or-treat stash or leftover from decorations. Instead of tossing them into storage again this year, I decided to upcycle one into something totally unexpected: a pastel pumpkin purse. A little spray paint, some pearls, and a creative handle later, and that ordinary orange bucket turned into a chic handbag that looks more designer boutique than dollar store.

This DIY is part Halloween craft, part fashion hack, and part eco-friendly makeover. It’s proof that with a bit of imagination, you can take something destined for the back of the cupboard and turn it into a trendy seasonal accessory you’ll actually want to carry.

Supplies You’ll Need

• Plastic trick-or-treat pumpkin bucket (the classic jack-o-lantern kind—you can usually find them for just a few dollars)

• Pastel spray paint (pink, lavender, mint, baby blue—anything soft and dreamy)

• Black acrylic paint or permanent marker (to make the jack-o-lantern face pop)

• Flat-backed pearls or pearl stickers

• Strong craft glue (E6000, Gem-Tac, or hot glue gun with clear sticks)

• Pearl belt or necklace (cut to length for the handle) OR a store-bought strap (chain, faux leather, or ribbon—lots available on sites like Temu, Shein, or Amazon)

• Jump rings or D-rings (to attach the strap)

• Hot metal rod, heated awl, or knife (for carefully making new holes)

• Optional: charms, tassels, or pom-poms for extra glam

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep Your Pumpkin
Take off the flimsy black handle the pumpkin comes with. Wipe down the surface with a cloth—sometimes these buckets are a bit dusty or greasy from the factory, and you want your spray paint to adhere well.

Step 2 – Spray It Pretty
Place the pumpkin on some newspaper outdoors or in a garage with good airflow. Spray in light, sweeping motions, holding the can 8–10 inches away. Don’t rush—several thin coats are better than one thick, drippy one. I went with pastel pink, but lilac or mint would also look amazing. Let each coat dry fully before flipping the pumpkin to spray another side.

Step 3 – Redefine the Face
Once your pumpkin is fully dry, grab some black paint or a permanent marker to darken the jack-o-lantern face. You can stick with bold black for contrast, or try metallic gold, white, or even glitter paint for a softer look. This is where your pumpkin starts going from “cheap plastic toy” to “statement handbag.”

Step 4 – Add Pearl Accents
Now for the glam! Using strong glue, attach flat-backed pearls around the features of the face or scatter them like polka dots over the pumpkin’s surface. Press each pearl gently but firmly and let them set. The pearls transform the whole look into something whimsical and elegant.

Step 5 – Create Handle Holes
Check where you want your strap to sit. If your bucket doesn’t have holes in the right spot, you’ll need to make your own. Carefully heat a metal rod or knife (use pliers to hold it—safety first!) and push it through the plastic to create clean holes. This method works much better than drilling since the heat prevents cracks.

Step 6 – Add Your Strap
Cut your pearl belt to the length you want for a single handle. Use jump rings or D-rings to connect it securely through the holes. If pearls aren’t your style, this is the perfect place to get creative: add a gold chain, velvet ribbon, or even a fabric scarf tied in knots.

Step 7 – Finish with Extras
Want to take it over the top? Add a pom-pom keychain, tassel charm, or Halloween-themed trinket. These little details make the bag feel designer-inspired.

Step 8 – Show It Off
Your pastel pumpkin purse is ready! Carry it trick-or-treating with the kids, wear it to a Halloween party, or even just style it with your everyday autumn outfit for a touch of seasonal whimsy.

Styling Ideas for Your Pumpkin Bag

• Pair it with jeans and a blazer for a quirky day look.

• Match the pastel pumpkin with a soft sweater in a coordinating color.

• Go all-out glam by pairing your pearl pumpkin purse with sparkly accessories for a Halloween cocktail party.

• Make a whole collection! Pastel lavender with rhinestones, mint green with sequins, or baby blue with star-shaped stickers.

Crafty Tips & Troubleshooting

• Paint peeling? Make sure you cleaned your pumpkin well and let the spray paint fully cure between coats.

• Handle feels flimsy? Reinforce the inside with metal washers or hot glue for extra stability.

• No pearls on hand? Use rhinestones, sequins, or even paint dots for a similar effect.

• Don’t want to use heat? A strong hole punch or drill can also work, but go slowly to avoid cracking the plastic.

This craft is part Halloween, part high-fashion hack, and part upcycle. It takes something you’d normally toss in the back of a closet and turns it into a seasonal accessory you’ll actually be excited to carry. Plus, it’s budget-friendly—most of the supplies can be picked up at the dollar store or online for a few dollars.

So next time you see a pile of those plastic pumpkin buckets at the store, grab a couple. One can become a handbag, another can be upcycled into chic storage, and who knows—maybe you’ll start a whole pastel pumpkin trend in your neighborhood.

• Source: https://recycledcrafts.craftgossip.com/diy-pastel-pumpkin-upcycle-purse-with-pearls/2025/10/12/