Pumpkin Art Project with Chalk Pastels
This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. View our full disclosure policy here.
This pumpkin art project is perfect for young students to try during the fall months! It’s a fun way to introduce kids to chalk pastels, blending colors, and shading. They will even get to practice fine motor skills and glue bottle skills while making these unique works of art!
*Pair this with our Pumpkin Centers and Activities for Pre-K & Kindergarten!

Pumpkin Art Project with Chalk Pastels
This simple fall craft is so fun and the results are beautiful! Each pumpkin art project is unique. You may even want to include a “still life” pumpkin display in your classroom for students to observe!
For this pumpkin art project, you will need:
- Black construction paper
- Cotton swabs
- Pencil
- Clear school glue
- Chalk pastels
Let’s get started!

Step 1: Draw Your Pumpkin
Invite students to use the pencil to draw an outline of a pumpkin onto the black construction paper. They may also want to add a horizon line.
Next, use clear glue to trace the pencil lines. Instruct the students to only open the glue a small amount so they have a bit more control with the glue.
Younger students may need a bit of help with this step. Allow the glue to dry completely before continuing on to the next step.

Step 2: Add Color
Once the glue has dried completely, invite students to use chalk pastels to add color to their pumpkin portraits.
The glue outline will make it easier for students to color within the lines.
This is also a great time to introduce the concept of shading. For example, students may want to use dark colors close to the outlines and lighter colors toward the center.

Step 3: Blend
Invite students to use a cotton swab to gently blend the colors.
Teacher Tip: To prevent smudging, once the students are done blending, (adult) spray with a light coat of hair spray or clear fixative. Allow to dry completely.

Display your pumpkin art projects proudly in your home or classroom. These pumpkins also make a beautiful fall or Halloween bulletin board!

Want unlimited access to even MORE of our activities and resources?
Then be sure you request your invite so that you can be the first to hear when the doors open again for our Print and Play Club!
With instant access to hundreds of printables by topic and skill (no more scouring the internet!), every TKC resource, video lessons, a digital games vault, “Super” Sunday Surprises, and much more – your planning time just got easier.
Request your invitation below for more info!
- Easy Paper Butterfly Craft for Kids - May 10, 2022
- Ladybug Spoon Puppet Craft for Kids - April 28, 2022
- Rabbit Paper Bag Puppet Craft - April 14, 2022