Thrift Store Cable Sweater Pumpkins

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Looking for the coziest, most budget-friendly fall decor idea? These thrift store cable knit sweater pumpkins are pure autumn magic. Using a $1 Goodwill sweater and Dollar Tree faux pumpkins, you can create soft, textured, high-end-looking pumpkins that feel straight out of a boutique catalog.

This easy no-sew project is perfect for beginners and takes very little time. The cable knit texture adds instant charm and warmth to any fall mantel, entryway table, or Thanksgiving centerpiece. Neutrals look especially chic, but any sweater color or pattern works beautifully.

Why These Sweater Pumpkins Are a Must-Make

• Extremely cheap (thrift sweater + Dollar Tree pumpkins)
• No sewing required
• Quick and beginner-friendly
• Soft, cozy texture that elevates any space
• Fully customizable with different sweater colors and pumpkin sizes

Pro Tip:

My local dollar tree has lots of varieties of faux pumpkins. I picked two different sizes. They also carry twine and even hot glue sticks. I was able to find the cable knit sweater for only $1 at my local Goodwill thrift store.

How to Make Cable Knit Sweater Pumpkins (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Paint the pumpkins

For this tutorial, I started by spray painting my faux pumpkins white. I didn’t want their orange and green to be glaring through the cable knit thrifted sweater. I love ribbing on a cable sweater.

Both Walmart and Lowes sell a generic spray paint that is super cheap and great for projects like this where you just need to change the color.

Step 2: Cut the sweater sleeves

For my two smaller pumpkins I used the ends of the sleeves of the old sweater to cover them. I cut off at about 6 inches up from the bottom of the sweater sleeves. Then you want to turn your cut sleeve inside out.

Step 3: Tie the bottom

Using the jute twine, tie off one of the ends about 1 inch up. I wrapped the twine around a couple of times and tied it 2-3 times. Then you want to right side out the sleeve. (the twine you just tied will now be inside)

Step 4: Insert the pumpkin

Now it’s time to put in your faux pumpkin. I placed the bottom of the pumpkin into the sleeve first, so it’s sitting on the twine knot you just tied.

Step 5: Tie the top and create the stem

Then pull the sweater fabric tight and tie the top off with twine.

Time to wrap that twine to create the pumpkin stem. I cut out about 1/2 of the sweater fabric that was sticking out because I felt it was too thick.

Wrap, wrap, wrap until you get to about 1 inch from the top. Then place a bunch of hot glue on the tip and finish wrapping. Then look at your cute little pumpkins.

Super cute right!! I hope you get a chance to make your own DIY sweater pumpkins.

Styling & Tips for Maximum Impact

• Mix different pumpkin sizes for a more natural, collected look.
• Stick to neutrals for a timeless, high-end feel, or go bold with colorful or patterned sweaters.
• Group several together in a wooden dough bowl, on a tray, or along a mantel.
• The twine stem adds a charming rustic touch that pairs perfectly with the soft knit texture.

These thrift store sweater pumpkins are one of those projects that look expensive but cost almost nothing. They bring instant cozy fall vibes and always get compliments. Make a few this weekend and enjoy how much personality they add to your autumn decor. Love thrift store makeovers? Check out more of my favorite budget fall projects and the full roundup of this month’s thrift store team creations.

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