If you’ve ever strolled through a thrift store, you’ve probably spotted a lonely bundt pan or two sitting on the shelf. Instead of baking a cake, why not turn one into a gorgeous rustic pumpkin for your fall décor? This upcycled Bundt Cake Pan Pumpkin adds instant autumn charm to your home, porch, or holiday table — and best of all, it costs just a few dollars to make.
This project has that handmade, farmhouse-style feel thanks to a textured paint finish and a topping of faux fall florals. It’s the perfect mix of thrifty and pretty.
Supplies You’ll Need:
- 1 thrifted Bundt cake pan
- Orange spray paint (matte or satin finish works best)
- White school glue (like Elmer’s)
- Ground cinnamon (or cinnamon mixed with pumpkin spice for extra scent/texture)
- Brown paper bag or stick (for stem)
- Faux fall leaves, flowers, or berries
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Clear spray sealer (optional, for durability)
Instructions:
1. Prep Your Pan
Wash and dry the Bundt pan thoroughly. Remove any grease or rust spots so the paint adheres properly.
2. Spray Paint the Base
Take your pan outside or to a well-ventilated area. Spray it evenly with orange paint until fully covered. Allow to dry. Two coats may be needed for full coverage.
3. Add Rustic Texture
Mix white glue with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Dab or brush this mixture randomly over the pumpkin. While still tacky, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for that “grubby,” rustic texture. Let dry completely.
(Tip: This not only looks aged and farmhouse-inspired, but it also smells amazing when you’re working on it.)
4. Make the Stem
Twist a strip of brown paper bag into a stem shape and hot glue it to the center opening of the Bundt pan. Alternatively, use a stick from the yard for a natural look.
5. Add Fall Florals
Arrange faux fall flowers, leaves, and berries around the stem. Secure with hot glue until you’re happy with the fullness. Think mums, sunflowers, orange leaves, and even sprigs of faux wheat for texture.
6. Seal (Optional)
If you plan to display your pumpkin outdoors or want it to last through multiple seasons, give it a light coat of clear spray sealer.
Display Ideas
- Use it as a centerpiece with candles around it.
- Place on your porch beside mums and real pumpkins.
- Make a set in different pan sizes for a pumpkin patch effect.
This Bundt Cake Pan Pumpkin project is one of those DIYs that looks like it came from a boutique but costs thrift-store pennies. Every pumpkin turns out unique depending on your paint, texture, and flower choices.
- Source: https://recycledcrafts.craftgossip.com/diy-bundt-cake-pan-pumpkin-thrifted-fall-upcycle/2025/10/05/
