Each year we spend too much time and money scouring our local farm markets and pumpkin farms for white pumpkins. They aren't the easiest to find and are usually costly.

This year we decided to switch it up a bit. We purchased faux white pumpkins at our local craft store, making sure the stems were removable (some are not able to be separated from the pumpkin). Our fake stems twisted right out of the faux pumpkin. Then we purchased real dried pumpkin stems from Etsy. We used hot glue to secure the dried stem to the center of the pumpkin where the plastic stem was removed, and finished it off using a velvet ribbon. Now we have these gorgeous, faux pumpkins that can be used indoors or out and will last for years to come!

At the end of this year, we will make our own dried stems. 

Two ways to dry your pumpkin stems:

Remove stems by cutting a circle around the stem and pulling out and away from the pumpkin. Then, cut any excess pumpkin from the stem.

1. Oven method: Heat oven to 200 degrees. Place stems on a cookie sheet and bake for 2.5-3 hours.

2. Air Dry method: Place your stems in a cardboard box and set in a cool dry place. This method takes longer, usually up to 8+ weeks,  but does work. 

**Stems will sound and feel hollow once they are completely dry.**