Before you start
The verified contents are wooden pumpkin frames and leaf stickers; paint, photos, backing materials, and a stand are extras. Examine your frame’s actual photo attachment before choosing a backing. Use a duplicate photo so the original does not need to be trimmed or glued.
At the craft table
Use paints and adhesives according to their labels, and follow the kit’s age guidance. Supervise cutting as appropriate. Check wooden edges before use and keep small stickers away from young children and pets.
Make it step by step
Check the frame and photo opening
Lay the frame flat and inspect its front, back, and opening. Remove loose surface dust with a dry cloth. Hold your duplicate photo behind the opening to check whether the subject is centered and whether the print extends beyond all opening edges.
Plan the painted design
Choose a pumpkin color and a small accent color for the stem or edge. Set backed leaf stickers around the frame to find positions that do not cover the photo opening. Move them aside before painting and leave any photo attachment areas on the back clear.
Paint the front in thin coats
Brush a light coat onto the wooden front, moving around the opening rather than across it. Keep paint from pooling along the cut edges. Let the first coat dry according to the paint label, then add another thin coat if desired.
Add a simple painted detail
When the base is ready for another layer, use a lightly loaded brush to add the stem color or short curved lines suggesting pumpkin sections. Leave the frame’s central opening clear. Allow all paint to dry fully before applying stickers or fitting the photo.
Press on the autumn leaves
Return the leaf stickers to the planned positions. Peel one at a time and press each onto the dry painted wood, smoothing its edges. Use a small cluster at one side or bottom so the photo remains the focus.
Fit and secure the photo
Position the duplicate photo behind the opening and mark any needed trimming on its back. Leave an overlap beyond the opening for attachment. Use the frame’s actual attachment method; if none is supplied, secure the print and an optional cardstock backing with photo-safe tape or suitable adhesive.
Check the back and display
Let any added adhesive dry as labeled. Check that the print will not slide through the opening and that no tape or glue shows at the front. Place the finished frame in a stable stand or existing holder that fits it, without assuming a stand is included.
Make it your own
Crop a duplicate print so faces are not hidden behind the pumpkin opening.
A small leaf cluster gives the frame a seasonal detail without hiding the photo.
Paint and decorate the front before fitting the photo to prevent stray paint on the print.
Common fixes
The photo is too small for the opening.
Use a larger duplicate print or mount the photo on cardstock large enough to overlap the opening.
Stickers do not stay on the paint.
Check that the paint is fully dry, not just surface dry. Press the sticker on a smooth area; follow the sticker and paint directions before adding any extra adhesive.
Finish & enjoy
After all paint and adhesive have dried, wipe the photo area gently with a dry cloth and place the frame in a stable indoor display. Keep it away from damp areas and protect the photo face when storing it.
