Recycling old books into pumpkin garlands is a creative, eco-friendly way to give new life to something that might otherwise be discarded. This type of DIY project not only taps into the sustainable practice of repurposing materials but also allows for a fun, seasonal decoration perfect for autumn or Halloween. It is a blend of crafting, recycling, and celebrating the spirit of the season.

Step 1: Gather Materials

To make a pumpkin garland from an old book, you will need a few basic supplies. Start by selecting an old book that you no longer need or one that may be falling apart. If the book holds sentimental value, this project is a way to preserve a piece of it in a new form. Besides the book, you’ll need scissors or a craft knife, a pencil, tape, string or twine, and some orange paint or ink if you want a more traditional pumpkin colour. For added embellishments, you can also gather green ribbon or felt for stems, and glitter or beads for extra decoration.

Step 2: Create Pumpkin Shapes

Begin by selecting a pumpkin template. You can draw a simple pumpkin shape freehand or find a template online. I used a plastic cookie cutter. Use the template to trace multiple pumpkins onto the pages of the old book.

Once you’ve traced the shapes, carefully cut them out using scissors or a craft knife. You’ll want the cuts to be as uniform as possible for a polished final product. If the book has yellowed or aged pages, these will give the garland a rustic, vintage feel. However, if you prefer a more vibrant look, you can paint the pumpkins orange after cutting them out. For a modern or neutral aesthetic, leave the pages unpainted and allow the text and the natural colour of the paper to shine through.

Step 3: Attach to the Garland

Once your pumpkins are assembled, it’s time to attach them to the garland. Cut a length of string or twine to your desired garland length.

Then, attach each pumpkin to the string by either threading the twine through the centre of the pumpkin or  holding in place with tape. Be sure to space them out evenly for a balanced look. You can also alternate the paper pumpkins with other fall decorations, such as dried leaves, or burlap bows.

Step 4: Hang and Enjoy

Once your garland is assembled, it’s ready to be hung. Drape it across a mantel, over a window, or along a banister for a cozy, autumnal touch to your home. The recycled book pages bring a unique, literary charm to your décor, while the pumpkin shapes celebrate the season in a subtle, sophisticated way.

This project not only encourages creativity but also reinforces the importance of recycling and reducing waste. By turning an old book into a beautiful pumpkin garland, you are giving new life to forgotten items, all while crafting a decoration that adds warmth and character to your space.