How to Turn Your Pumpkins into a Stoop Cat

Oct 12, 2015

If you couldn’t tell by the countless Halloween costume ideas for yourself, group costumes and even dog costumes, Halloween is one of our favorite times of the year. Costumes have been on our mind since July, but don’t worry — we haven’t forgotten about what to do with all those pumpkins! We saw this cat pumpkin design on Pinterest by Sheila Schmitz and knew we had to give it a try. Make a few of these black cats to line your stoop and don’t be afraid to mix in some no-carve pumpkins as well!

Materials + Tools:

– 1 large, 1 medium and 1 small pumpkin

– carving knives

– black spray paint

– black paper

– hot glue gun

– scissors

Instructions:

1. Hollow out your medium-size pumpkin and then cut out two triangle eyes (the opening should be facing down).

2. Spray paint this pumpkin black and hot glue two triangle ears on top of its head.

3. Grab your largest pumpkin and spray paint it black. Once dry, add a black tail using black paper and hot glue.

4. Cut a small pumpkin in half and spray paint both sides black. These will be the cat’s feet.

5. Assemble your black cat and place a candle underneath its head to make the triangle eyes glow.

Get out those carving knives, because it’s time to hollow out your medium-size pumpkin! Make sure the hole for your pumpkin is on the bottom side since it will be sitting on top of your large pumpkin. Cut out two eyes for your black cat — we chose triangles.

Spray paint the pumpkin black and glue black triangle pieces on top for ears.

Grab your largest pumpkin and spray paint it black. Once dry, cut out a black tail and hot glue it to the back side of the pumpkin. You can make it curve any direction you want to show the cat’s emotional state. Ours is feeling meow-llow.

We originally thought two small orange pumpkins would be great for the kitty-cat’s feet, but then we realized that one pumpkin cut in half works the best. Spray paint your pumpkin halves black.

Place a candle on top of your large pumpkin and then add the head on top to complete your black cat.

How will you adorn your stoop this Halloween? Share your thoughts with us below!

30 Things You Can Make With Your Leftover Halloween Pumpkins

Jack-o'-lanterns are great for Halloween decorations, but the humble pumpkin certainly has a lot to offer once the holiday's over. In the U.S. alone, 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins are thrown away after Halloween every year. Once trashed, wasted pumpkins end up occupying a lot of space in landfills and producing harmful amounts of the greenhouse gas, methane.

Because of this, it's important to consider making some more sustainable moves after spooky season ends. Turns out, many varieties of pumpkins you'll find in stores this fall are actually bred for carving, and aren't safe for consumption – each pumpkin will often be marked if they're inedible. Try looking out for pumpkins that *can* be eaten so you can make the most out of the pumpkin guts: Cherokee Bush, Casper, Cinderella, and Fairy Tale pumpkins are all great choices.

Consider composting your pumpkins after Halloween, too. If you don't do at-home compost, there are likely to be community compost pick-ups or drop-offs near you.

The most sustainable (and delicious) way to use leftover pumpkin is to make some recipes with it! We've gone far beyond pumpkin pie and roasting pumpkin seeds (although we'll happily do that, too) to bring you some creative ways to make use of the insides of yourjack-o'-lanterns after their flames have burned out. We're scooping out over a dozen creative ways to use the whole thing, guts and all.

Recipes To Make With Pumpkin Guts

Brit + Co

Spiced Pumpkin Cider

Swap out the pumpkin puree with your own pumpkin goodness to make this luscious Halloween drink.

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Rolls

These luscious pumpkin rolls make for the ultimate cozy weekend breakfast! To make use of your pumpkin leftovers, swap the canned pumpkin puree for your own homemade version.

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Pasta

Get us a spoon! Nothing says comfort food like mac and cheese, but this pasta takes things up a notch. Fall is no better time than fall to nosh on homey eats that carry *all* the fall flavors.

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Curry

Make this pumpkin-packed curry however spicy you'd like it for a *totally* warming bite when it's chilly out!

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These paleo-friendly baked bites scream fall, especially when you decorate them in jack-o'-lantern fashion.

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Juice

Whip up your very own pumpkin puree to dress up this seasonal drink!

Brit + Co

Chocolate Pumpkin Banana Bread

Freshly-baked banana bread is made for the fall season, so why not doctor things up with some pumpkin? Leverage your leftovers for a sweet little treat!

The Pioneer Woman

Homemade Pumpkin Puree

Grab your pumpkin and get to work, because the good stuff is on the inside. Slice, scoop and de-seed your way to homemade pumpkin puree that'll knock *any* canned pumpkin product out of the patch.

Oh She Glows

The Perfect Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Once you've spilled the guts, work on gathering all of those pumpkin seeds. Not only do pumpkin seeds have nutritive value, they're excellent for munching on their own.

Taste & Tell

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

So, yeah… pumpkin, cinnamon and maple cream cheese all infused into a warm, sticky bun. We'll take two, please.

A Beautiful Mess

Overnight Pumpkin Butter

Once you've had the sweet and spicy taste of warm pumpkin butter hit your taste buds, you'll never look at a pumpkin the same way again. Grab a pumpkin and get digging, because these guts make something quite grand.

Modern Farmer

Hard Squash Hummus

Creamy chickpeas and raw pumpkin (instead of squash) combine for a flavorful spin on the classic dip. Reap the rewards of the pumpkin and score some 'oohs' and 'ahhs' by roasting the seeds for a crunchy garnish.

Ambitious Kitchen

Honey Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins

If you're a pumpkin lover, get on this recipe! They're perfect for dunking into chilis and stews, or if you like your cornbread on the sweet side, add a drizzle of melted butter and warm honey. (via Ambitious Kitchen)

Pizzazzerie

Pumpkin Bisque

Learn how to use a pumpkin as a serving vessel and flavor enhancer for superb dishes like this crisp fall bisque.

Martha Stewart

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Filling

Martha knows a thing or two about pumpkin… like how excellent it is when you bake it into pillowy cookies sandwiched around sweetened cream cheese.

Skinnytaste

Pumpkin Ice Cream

It's October, and that means pumpkin-flavored everything hits supermarket shelves. If you live in a warmer area, you can forget the fuzzy sweaters and hot apple cider. Get your fall fix with this creamy sherbet that's perfectly spiced, made with milk, pumpkin puree, and spices.

She Wears Many Hats

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

You're drooling, right? This pumpkin dessert just might make it into your regular rotation.

Purely Twins

Pumpkin Pie Fudge Truffles

For the love of pumpkin and chocolate! These bite-sized truffles are basically magic in the mouth. Bibbity-bobbity-boo, do spread the love for a treat, and share this recipe with your friends.

The Girl On Bloor

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Frappuccinos

Starbucks is life, but if you want to save some money this week, whip up this delicious pumpkin spice Frappuccino recipe at home! Mash up your leftover pumpkin guts to make a puree that'll serve as the base for this fall drink.

The First Mess

Black Bean Dip with Roasted Squash, Garlic, Pumpkin Seeds and Chipotles

Your nachos are waiting for you to dip them into this delectable black bean dip with roasted squash, garlic, pumpkin seeds and chipotle peppers.

Half Baked Harvest

6-Ingredient Spiced Pumpkin Butter

Step up your pumpkin butter game with this recipe. It's a perfect alternative if you want to have a spiced buttery spread to top your breakfast toast or croissant.

The First Mess

Vegan Pumpkin Smoothie with Ginger and Cardamom

This vegan pumpkin smoothie with ginger and cardamom is the fall drink you didn't know you needed to make.

Barley & Sage

Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Let your pumpkin's guts help you create the creamy puree that gives this stuffed shell recipe a burst of fall flavor.

Salt & Lavender

Pumpkin and Cauliflower Soup with Ginger

This pumpkin and cauliflower soup with ginger is great comfort meal on the cold, rainy fall days. (via Salt & Lavender)

Fancy Peasant

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Let your kids help you scoop out out the guts of your pumpkins so you can bake this sweet treat. They'll love eating this yummy twist on a traditional dessert.

Rachel Mansfield

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Crumb Cheesecake

Bake this gluten-free pumpkin crumb cheesecake for Thanksgiving, and watch as it slowly becomes your family's favorite dessert.

Takes Two Eggs

Dog Birthday Cake

It's time to celebrate your fur baby's birthday with this delicious cake. It's filled with yummy and safe ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter and apple sauce!

Recipes For Your Dog, Made With Leftover Pumpkin

White on Rice Couple

Pumpkin Dog Treats

Ifyour dog is as sweet as pumpkin pie, why not give him a bone that's packed with the flavor and nutrients of pumpkin?

DIY Self-Care With Pumpkin Guts

Brit + Co

Pumpkin-Honey Baking Soda Scrub

Welcome the fall season and brighten your skin without the aid of sunshine with this pumpkin body scrub. Rich in vitamins A and C and various enzymes, raw pumpkin is the secret ingredient to radiant skin.

Freutcake

Pumpkin Sugar Body Scrub

Want to try something magical on your skin? DIY thisbody scrub packed with natural enzymes that fight free radicals, slough away dead skin, and leave you feeling rejuvenated. Get to the kitchen and begin mixing nutrient rich, raw pumpkin with coarse sugar or salt, a bit of honey and sweet almond oil for a body scrub that packs a punch.

If you love pumpkin as much as we do, subscribe to our newsletter for the latest from Brit + Co!

This post has been updated.

The 5 Best (& Well-Reviewed) Moisturizers For Dry Skin On Amazon

For those of us who have dry skin, the time is here for us to triple our moisturizing efforts unless we want to deal with inevitable patches or itchiness. I've already noticed my combination skin is embracing its flaky and textured era, so I've been slowly stocking up on my favorite thick moisturizers to help calm things down.

Since I'm a busy mom, I've been relying on Amazon Prime delivery to get them shipped straight to my front door. Right now I only have three facial moisturizers I swear by, but I'm also sharing two body products that keep my eczema-prone extremities hydrated.

Keep reading for the luxuriously thick moisturizers you need to add to cart ASAP.

My Favorite Face Moisturizers For Dry Skin

Jasmine Williams/Brit + Co

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

I've been using Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream for the past 3 years and it's been a miracle for my confused skin. IMO, it's not greasy despite having a richer texture than I'm used to. It actually feels soothing to me and I think that has everything to do with the 4.5 percent Squalene and Glacial Glycoprotein that's in it.

I typically use a hyaluronic acid serum in addition to this, but this facial cream is my go-to moisturizer.

Why Other Customers Love It

Amazon

Other customers have a lot to say about this thick moisturizer, but the standout Amazon reviews are:

"By profession I'm a cosmetologist so have decades of experience not only with hair products, but also with those concerning skin care. I've tried almost every item on the market and this is my favorite. It isn't heavy, yet provides plenty of moisturization. My face feels so soft! I'm a senior citizen and my skin tends to be dry, but just a little of this smoothes and hydrates it. You don't even need a primer. Makeup glides on."
"This is the only moisturizer that doesn’t break out my extremely sensitive skin. I have rosacea and other products burn my skin and make my face even more red. I’ve been using this and it’s the only thing I can use."
"This moisturizer feels great on the skin! I have mixed oily and dry skin and it has done so well. I recently switched from Tula to this brand and I have not regretted it. It does not cause breakouts and I feel like my face is hydrated the whole day. i would definitely recommend."
"Nice product that gives some sun protection. A little thicker consistency than regular moisturizer but the convenience of not using sunscreen for daily errands. My DIL gave me this once for a birthday & I have been using ever since."

Amazon

La Roche-Posay Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream

Okay, this moisturizer is a little pricier than the others I've mentioned, but it's La Roche-Posay! If you're looking at me with a blank stare, I'll do my best to explain. This is hands-down one of the best skincare brands I've come across in my 30s because a handful of their products have a seal of approval from the National Eczema Association.

It has shea butter and niacinamide in it, which are double threats against icky environmental elements that cling to dry skin. Plus, you can use it on your face, body and hands!

Why Other Customers Love It

Amazon

Here are some of the best reviews on Amazon about this luxurious moisturizer:

"This lotion has literally no fragrance. It leaves my skin feeling soft with a subtle glow without being greasy. It is also extremely hydrating. I have very sensitive skin, and the fact that babies can use it too is what made me decide to try it."
"The first application was wild. It’s thick and feels pretty slippery on the surface. But the next morning, I didn’t want to stop touching my face. The flakes became way more manageable and allowed me to continue the retinitis treatment. I’ve been using this for a few weeks, and my skin texture has improved tremendously. It is great that you can use it on your body as well. I lather it on at night and then put a very light layer on under my sunscreen in the morning. It doesn’t make me look greasy if I let it soak in before applying makeup."
"It instantly alleviated my dryness, leaving my skin radiant, glowy, and remarkably hydrated. As we transition into the winter months, I’m confident this cream will be a lifesaver against the harsh, windy weather we often experience in the Midwest."
"As someone with sensitive and acne-prone skin, this has been a game changer. I can't imagine going without this product since starting tretinoin and tazarotene. I use it as a final step in my routine to seal in moisture and any active ingredients. La Roche-Posay has consistently made sensitive-skin-friendly products. I'm not sure how you may react to the high shea butter content, but my skin doesn't seem to have any issues with it. The thickness is unlike any lotion I've tried. 10/10 would recommend."

Amazon

Olay Complete+ Rich Moisturizing Cream

Having sensitive skin isn't a death sentence for your face. It just means your skin is picky and only wants the best products to touch it, so technically it's like having a superpower. If you're still not convinced, let Olay's Complete+ Rich Moisturizing Cream persuade you.

It has vitamin B3, vitamin E, and ceramides in it that work together to provide all day hydration. Also, these powerhouse ingredients work together to promote healthy cell turnover so your gorgeous moisture barrier is in tip-top shape. P.S. It's recommended by the Skin Health Alliance.

Why Other Customers Love This Facial Moisturizer

Amazon

Check out what these Amazon customers had to say:

"I have extremely sensitive skin and this doesn't irritate my skin. I've tried and given up using many products (I'm 71). This cream makes my skin (face and neck) soft and hydrated. I use it several hours before bed and again in the morning. I alternate using it with another face skin care product."
"I find this to be every bit as moisturizing, creamy, and long-lasting as any of the more expensive face creams that are all the rage these days. I have tried many of the face serums, creams, and lotions and do not think any of them work any better than this Olay Face Cream."
"My mom used Olay products and her skin was immaculate! I started using it in my 30s and switched to other more popular, more expensive brands. I should have never stopped using it. I love this new moisturizer too! It feels amazing and makes my face look so smooth! I'm back Olay!"
"Tried this because my husband’s dermatologist has the most beautiful skin. I asked the dr what he used and this was it. After using so many different moisturizers for years I always had red rough skin. Now after all these years the redness is gone!! Its definitely worth giving it a try."

My #1 Favorite Body Moisturizer For Dry Skin

Jasmine Williams/Brit + Co

Palmer's Shea Formula Body Lotion

Since it's a little colder, I need something that's going to keep my skin moisturized without triggering eczema flareups. One of the top moisturizers that gets the job done is Palmer's Shea Formula Body Lotion.

I personally opt to get the value size of this because it lasts a little over a month for me. Why? Well, a little goes a long way because this dermatologist-approved formula is thick. But once I rub it into my skin, it provides the silkiest shine I've ever seen. Besides shea butter, it has Marula, oatmeal, grapeseed oil, and vitamin E in it to provide the radiance I love so much.

It's usually $16 on Amazon, but it's currently on sale for $13!

Why Other Customers Love It

Amazon

According to Amazon, over 5,000 customers have purchased Palmer's Shea Formula body lotion this month. Also, it has a 4.6 rating which means I'm not the only one who loves using it. Here's my favorite 5-star reviews:

"As someone who battles dry skin year-round, finding a reliable moisturizer has always been a challenge—until I discovered Palmer's Shea Formula Raw Shea Body Lotion. This lotion has been a game-changer for me, and I'm thrilled to share my experience."
"The smell of this is amazing, makes my skin silky and smooth. great everyday lotion & the smell is subtle enough that it doesn’t overwhelm when I put my perfume on. My skin is plenty hydrated using this and I don’t notice any stickiness once it dries down."
"So we are on our 4th bottle now. Loving the product? Yassss!"
"We live in far Southern Az, where it is extremely dry (except during the monsoon). So we have had to start using skin lotions to make our skin feel better. This stuff is really great! And it lasts quite awhile."

Another Body Moisturizer I Love Using For Dry Skin

Amazon

Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion

If I feel like switching things up, I'll buy Aveeno's Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion. It has a triple oat (oat flour, extract, and oil) and shea formula that work wonders for anyone who knows how it feels to have dry skin you suddenly have to scratch all the time. It's basically tough on things that cause dry skin, but gentle on the sensitivity of it!

Why Other Customers Love It

Amazon

This lotion actually has a slightly higher rating than Palmer's and has been purchased over 6,000 times this month. The only reason it's not my first go-to is because I have fond childhood memories of Palmer's. Aside from that, Aveeno is pretty d—n amazing!

Customers are saying:

"My derm recommended it, my skin is now so soft, not dry anymore as long as I keep applying daily."
"Love this lotion. I am super sensitive with lifelong relatively dry skin, and also super picky about my lotion quality and what I need."
"I've tried high end lotions and they have nothing on this stuff! This lotion is incredibly soothing, providing instant relief and long-lasting hydration that keeps my skin feeling soft and smooth all day. The formula is gentle, fragrance-free, and absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue, making it perfect for daily use. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s texture and overall comfort since I started using it."
"I’ve tried so many - This is the Only lotion that keeps the moisture in my skin. I put it on in the morning and my skin is still soft and dewy at night and even the next morning."

Need recommendations for the best face wash to use? We have 10 geared towards each skin type!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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40 Creative Pumpkin Carving Ideas and Designs

We are officially consuming pumpkin-flavored things faster than leaves can fall off trees, and we can't wait to try out some of our newest creative pumpkin carving ideas. To keep the momentum going with our Halloween decor obsession, we've rounded up the best of the best in pumpkin design. So whether you're getting intricate with it or just want to drill a few holes, these unique ideas will get you carving and embellishing creatively this Halloween.

Image via Brit + Co

Flamingo Pumpkin

It's always a bit easier to just paint them, right? And you can easily add everything you need to make a flock of them for your living room.

Shutterstock

Make this cute fox by slicing spots for cardboard ears and tails and painting a little heart face!

Image via A Beautiful Mess

Daisy Pumpkin

Celebrate the Summer of Love all the way into October with this boho, no-carve pumpkin design.

Image via Handmade Charlotte

DIY Cat Drilled Pumpkin

Opting for a repeating pattern and some paint creates a fresh look without having to spend hours carving out a ghoulish face.

Image via In My Own Style

Candy Jar Carved Pumpkin

Turn your pumpkin into a candy jar with some knife skills and chalkboard paint.

Shutterstock

Nightmare Before Christmas fans can make these 'kins with black and white paint!

Image via Brit + Co

Unicorn Pumpkin

Because we all need a little bit of magic as we go about our day.

Image via A Beautiful Mess

Thanksgiving Pumpkin

White pumpkins are versatile, and this simple fabric paint DIY will carry you through from Halloween to Thanksgiving.

Textured Clay Bow Craft Pumpkin

Go ghostly with your own textured bow from clay for a unique décor piece! (via Michael's)

Etsy

Cute Ghost Pumpkin

Carve a ghost with this Etsy stencil - easy, peasy!

Image via Design Improvised

Modern Geometric Pumpkin

Since you won't be carving, stick to a smoother faux pumpkin for this DIY. Its less-pronounced ridges will make it easier to apply these vinyl pieces.

Image via Studio DIY

Gold Confetti-Dipped Pumpkin

These pumpkins were *meant* to be seen.

Image via Aww Sam

Cactus Pumpkin

These are simple to DIY and are a major conversation starter.

Image via Dans Lakehouse

Turquoise Pumpkin

Rhinestones make everything prettier, and we love this DIY teal-painted take on the orange classic.

Image via Brit + Co

DIY Animal Pumpkins

Invite the girls over to spend an afternoon carving woodland creatures. They'll thank you later.

Image via Brit + Co

Finding Dory Pumpkins

Ya know, for the kids in your life. Don't forget to do Hank the Septopus!

Image via Brit + Co

Gold Leaf Patterned Pumpkin

Yes, you can add a chic touch to your decor with a *pumpkin*.

Image via Brit + Co

Cosmic Pumpkins

Those pre-painted plastic versions are the perfect backdrop for a night's sky or the Milky Way.

Image via Brit + Co

Emoji Head Pumpkins

Bring those keyboard faves to life this year with a stoop full of emojis.

Image via Brit + Co

Anatomy Pumpkins

Rather than hanging a skeleton outside the door to spook trick-or-treaters, carve these pumpkins for a more original take on the tradition.

Image via Studio DIY!

Pun-kins

Bow down, witches.

Image via Aww Sam

Cross-Stitch Pumpkins

Take your hobby to the next level this season with these charming & ghoulish designs.

Image via Paper & Stitch

Creepy Cat-Eye Pumpkin

This one doesn't need to be big to make a statement. The multitude of eyes staring back at you as you walk across the room is creepy enough.

Skeleton Diorama Pumpkin

Love this diorama idea! Choose your theme and add some sparkle. Make it a party! (via Michael's)

Image via Sarah Hearts

Scalloped Pumpkin

Have some tissue confetti left over? Excellent. Layer it to create a fish-scale effect.

Hocus Pocus Pumpkins

Image via Lovely Indeed

Hocus Pocus Pumpkins

Thackery Binx would be proud to sit by these while guarding the book and the black flame candle.

Image via Handmade Charlotte

Tetris Pumpkin

AKA Pumpktris, this carved and LED-equipped 'kin is perfect for the throwback gamer in all of us.

Image via A Bubbly Life

Retro Label Maker Pumpkins

Live your office supply dreams all season long with a label maker.

Image via Paper & Stitch

Text Pumpkins

Text designs make a big impact without all the hard work.

Image via Delineate Your Dwelling

Simple Tassel Pumpkin

There are never enough ways to use all the cute tassels in the world. This is ideal for adding texture to the waxy ones.

Image via Design Improvised

Pom Pom Pumpkins

Living colorfully is a 24/7 kind of lifestyle. Embrace the trend this fall with a collection of rainbow pumpkins.

Image via Hello, Wonderful

Hot Crayon Pumpkin

Don't bother with melted crayon art. Instead, use the technique on these tiny little ones. They'd make a stylish centerpiece and are a way to get the kids involved.

Image via Hello Wonderful

String Art Pumpkin

String us along anytime for an art project that combines bright fabric, metal, and organic materials.

Image via Lovely Indeed

Gold Geo No-Carve Pumpkins

These geometric gold pumpkins may look fancy, but they only require you to use a gold pen.

Image via JoJoTastic

Boho Agate Geode Jack-O-Lantern

Incorporate crystal magic into your Halloween decor-scape with agate slices that glow deep blue when candlelit.

www.instagram.com

Pumpkin Flower

This may not be for novices, but it's a totally different take on pumpkin carving for those at home with a scalpel.

www.instagram.com

Jacqueline Coonan on Instagram: "Crescent Carvings 🌙 / Candle Holders 🕯 / @michaelsstores Pumpkins 🎃 #pumpkincarving #pumpkincarvings #pumpkincrafts #pumpkinart #pumpkindecor #pumpkindecorating #pumpkinpainting #foampumpkin #diypumpkins #diyhalloweendecorations #diypartydecor #diyhomedecor #halloweentablescape #falltablescape #falltabledecor #mymichaels #makeitwithmichaels #makersofinstagram #makersgonnamake #craftersofinstagram #craftersgonnacraft #longislandartist #longislandart"

White Moon

Simple yet refreshingly different, this white pumpkin carving is perfect for beginners.

Day of the Dead

www.instagram.com

British Autumn Vibes on Instagram: "Spooky season 😍🍁🧡 #britishautumn #autumnleaves #autumnvibes #autumndays #sweaterweather #pumpkinspiceeverything #autumn #fall #fallvibes #ukautumn #pumpkin #pumpkincarving #halloweensmorgasbord #halloweensnacks #spookyseason"

Day of the Dead

Inspired by El Día de los Muertos, this skull pumpkin is more adorable than spooky.

www.instagram.com

Abstract Pumpkin

Turn pumpkins into art by painting an abstract design in your favorite colors.

www.instagram.com

Harry Potter

If people wear costumes on Halloween, why can't pumpkins get in on the fun?

Which creative pumpkin carving idea do you like best from this list? Share pictures of your pumpkins with us on Twitter and join our newsletter for more creative inspiration!

This post has been updated.

halloween decorations halloween ideas harry potter pumpkin pumpkin carving pumpkin carving ideas halloween

11 Most-Anticipated December Movies You're Going To Love

I literally can't believe I'm writing this, but after a year of keeping up with all the biggest and best 2024 movies, I'm here with a final installment: December movies! This year has had some truly remarkable flicks (Challengers! Wicked! The Fall Guy!) and we're truly going out with a bang. While you're keeping up with all the best December TV shows coming out, here are the best December movies coming next month.

Keep reading for all the new December movies to add to your watchlist in 2024.

Y2K — In Theaters December 6, 2024

A24

Remember that Y2K crisis at the turn of the millennium? This December movie, which follows two high school juniors who crash a New Year's Eve party, reimagines it as a full-blown disaster — blood, guts, and all.

Y2K stars Jaeden Martell, Rachel Zegler, Julian Dennison, The Kid Laroi, and Fred Durst.

Mary — On Netflix December 6, 2024

Netflix

Get a new look at one of the most famous women in the world when Mary drops on Netflix next month. This movie will give you a whole new look at the titular heroine's life — from being forced into hiding to running for her life, all to protect her baby son from a murderous king.

Mary stars Noa Cohen, Ido Tako, Stephanie Nur, Susan Brown, Ori Pfeffer, Eamon Farren, Hilla Vidor, Mili Avital, Gudmundur Thorvaldsson, Dudley O’Shaughnessy, Keren Tzur, Mehmet Kurtulus, Mila Harris, and Anthony Hopkins.

Nightb—ch — In Theaters December 6, 2024

Searchlight Pictures

Another December movie that will have you looking at motherhood differently is Nightb—ch, which follows Amy Adams character's life as she becomes a mother...and becomes convinced she's also turning into a dog.

Nightb—ch stars Amy Adams, Scoot McNairy, Arleigh Patrick Snowden, Emmett James Snowden, Zoë Chao, Mary Holland, Archana Rajan, Jessica Harper.

F Marry Kill — On Digital December 6, 2024

Lionsgate

We all know dating apps can be a really horrifying experience, but when true-crime lover Eva starts to believe one of her three dates could be the “Swipe Right Killer," she finds herself in a life-or-death situation.

F Marry Kill stars Lucy Hale, Samer Salem, Virginia Gardner, Jedidiah Goodacre, Brendan Morgan, Brooke Nevin, and Bethany Brown.

A Nonsense Christmas With Sabrina Carpenter — On Netflix December 6

Mike Coppola/Getty Images for iHeartRadio

If you're still singing "Nonsense" by Sabrina Carpenter, then this December movie (er, holiday special) is for you. Not only will the popstar perform tunes from her fruitcake EP, but she'll be joined by special guests as well!

A Nonsense Christmas With Sabrina Carpenter stars, you guessed it, Sabrina Carpenter.

Maria — On Netflix December 11, 2024

Pablo Larraín/Netflix

Angelina Jolie's newest film follows iconic performer Maria Callas. After a glamorous, albeit difficult, public life, Maria moves to Paris for some quiet — and must confront her identity, her past, and her future in the process.

Maria stars Angelina Jolie, Pierfrancesco Favino, Alba Rohrwacher, Valeria Golino, Kodi Smit-McPhee, and Haluk Bilginer.

Kraven The Hunter — In Theaters December 13

Jay Maidment/Sony

Despite the fact it's coming out around the holidays, Aaron Taylor Johnson's new December movie is not for kids. The flick follows the titular Kraven as he morphs from the son of a gangster to the brutal and fearsome villain comic fans know so well.

Kraven the Hunter stars Aaron Taylor Johnson, Ariana DeBose, Fred Hechinger, and Russell Crowe.

Carry On — On Netflix December 13

Netflix

One TSA agent is in for a less-than-jolly holiday when he's blackmailed by a traveler hoping to bring a very dangerous package into the airport on Christmas Eve.

Carry On stars Taron Egerton, Jason Bateman, and Sofia Carson.

Mufasa: The Lion King — In Theaters December 20

Walt Disney Pictures

Not only is this Lion King sequel giving us a brand new look at a classic story, but it also marks Blue Ivy Carter's acting debut! The movie tells the story of how Mufasa began his journey as an orphaned cub and how a run-in with royal heir Taka changed everything.

Mufasa: The Lion King stars Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, Aaron Pierre, John Kani, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, Donald Glover, and Blue Ivy Carter.

Babygirl — In Theaters December 25

A24

Nicole Kidman's new December movie will add some spice to your holiday, thanks to an affair with her character's much-younger employee. Is it getting hot in here?

Babygirl stars Nicole Kidman, Harris Dickinson, Sophie Wilde, and Antonio Banderas.

A Complete Unknown — In Theaters December 25

Macall Polay/Searchlight Pictures

If you're still laughing about the Timothée Chalamet lookalike contest, then you'll definitely want to show up to see this flick, which stars our favorite Timmy as Bob Dylan during his historical move from folk to rock'n'roll.

A Complete Unknown stars Timothée Chalamet Monica Barbaro, Elle Fanning, Edward Norton, Boyd Holbrook, and Nick Offerman.

Let us know which December movie you're most excited for on Instagram!

pop culture entertainment movies

The 16 Best Bougie Trader Joe's Buys Under $10

The chokehold Trader Joe's has on me is atrocious. They truly can do no wrong with their wide array of snacks and sweet treats, and I really appreciate that my TJ's grocery hauls are typically way cheaper than if I did my shopping elsewhere. Trader Joe's is packed to the brim with delicious, life-changing finds under $10. So, if you're balling on a budget (but still want to make room for a lil' 'treat yourself' time), look no further than this list of my absolute favorite finds!

Let's dive into the best Trader Joe's buys you can add to your cart for under $10!

Trader Joe's

Organic Joe Medium Roast Ground Coffee

For just $6.99, Trader Joe's medium roast coffee tastes divine. No matter how you brew it, I promise you'll be thoroughly impressed.

Trader Joe's

Non-Dairy Oat Creamer Gingerbread

Trader Joe's collection of $1.99 non-dairy creamers are all delicious, but this limited-time seasonal offering is the literal cream of the crop.

Trader Joe's

Teeny Tiny Pecan Pies

Nothing says 'bougie' quite like finger foods do. Take the sweet route with this grouping of $4.99 tiny pecan pies!

Trader Joe's

Shaved Parmesan, Romano & Asiago Cheeses

I love topping salads, pastas, and soups with this $3.49 blend of shredded cheeses. Once it gets melty is where the fun really begins.

Trader Joe's

Cheesy Herby Biscuits

Biscuits are undoubtedly a considerably fancy thing to make yourself, but luckily you don't have to put in all that effort just to please a crowd, thanks to this $4.99 box o' biscuits!

Trader Joe's

Butter with Brown Sugar & Maple Syrup

This $2.99 butter infused with brown sugar and maple syrup will instantly elevate any piece of toast or baking project you've got going on.

Trader Joe's

Dark Chocolate Ganache Mini Sheet Cake

I'm simply obsessed with these $4.99 sheet cakes from Trader Joe's. They come in all kinds of flavors, but who can ever resist chocolate?! This is an easy (yet impressive) grab-and-go buy to bring to the office for your team or to share with the fam at home after a long week.

Trader Joe's

Truffle Dip

In my mind, truffle equates to some real fancy stuff. So, I was pleasantly surprised to see that this creamy dip was just $5.49!

Trader Joe's

Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings

I will live and die on the hill that Trader Joe's soup dumplings are some of the best ready-made options around. This $3.49 box is my go-to if I simply don't feel like cooking dinner (which happens more than I'd like to admit), but still want something warm that's gonna fill me up.

Trader Joe's

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