From Broken Clock to Fall Showstopper: How to Make a Pumpkin Floral Upcycle

Create a cozy fall DIY with Jen Dunne of Rustic Rehabs.

Turn Time Into Art

When it comes to fall décor, few things say “creative season” like turning the unexpected into something beautiful. For upcycling expert Jen Dunne of Rustic Rehabs, that inspiration started with a broken thrifted clock.

Partnering with Goodwill’s Second Chance Studio, Jen gave the timepiece a new purpose—transforming it into a pumpkin-themed floral wall art that’s equal parts rustic charm and autumn elegance.

“When I walk into Goodwill, I see it bursting with opportunity,” Jen says. “It’s like a craft store full of raw materials—just waiting for a second chance.”

What You’ll Need

• A thrifted clock or framed décor piece
• A foam pumpkin, cut in half
• Decoupage paper (or recycled wrapping paper or book pages)
• Chalk paint (in white and warm brown tones)
• Paint brush or palette knife
• Hot glue gun + glue sticks
• Florals or faux foliage (Goodwill is full of them!)
• Optional: Clear wax or sealant

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Pumpkin Floral Clock

1. Prep and Paint the Base:

Paint your clock or frame white to create a neutral background. This helps your decoupage paper shine once applied.

2. Cut Your Pumpkin in Half:

Carefully cut a foam pumpkin in half. (Jen jokes that an electric knife—usually reserved for Thanksgiving turkey—works great for this part!)

3. Add Your Background:

Apply your decoupage medium (like Mod Podge) to the base and smooth on your paper. Jen uses a “Grungy Floral” pattern for a rustic touch, but you can use anything you love—vintage book pages, wallpaper scraps, or even old sheet music.

4. Paint the Pumpkin:

Choose earthy browns or classic orange for your pumpkin. Chalk paint works great for coverage and that soft, matte finish.

5. Assemble and Decorate:

Once everything is dry, glue your pumpkin to the clock base and begin layering in faux florals, leaves, or wheat stems.

💡Jen’s tip? Every good floral arrangement needs a thriller, filler, and spiller. Combine tall accent stems with trailing greenery and fuller flowers for dimension.

6. Seal and Style:

If you used chalk paint, seal with a clear wax or topcoat. Hang your piece on a wall or door for a stunning alternative to a wreath.

Why We Love It

This DIY proves that with a little creativity, even a broken clock can become a timeless piece of fall décor. It’s budget-friendly, sustainable, and full of personality—everything we love about upcycling and secondhand style.

“Every time you walk into Goodwill, it’s full of possibilities,” Jen says. “Just look at what things could be, instead of what they are.”

Ready to Try It?

Visit your local Goodwill store to find your next upcycling treasure and explore even more how-tos from Second Chance Studio—where thrift meets creativity and every project gets a second chance to shine.