Harvest Moon Pumpkins

Harvest Moon Pumpkins by Kiki Geiger

Project Overview

Harvest Moon Pumpkins is a downloadable knitting pattern for creating decorative stuffed pumpkin toys. Inspired by the autumnal harvest moon that historically provided extra light for farmers to gather crops, these charming pumpkins capture the spirit of fall harvest season. The pattern allows crafters to create pumpkins in multiple sizes depending on yarn weight selection, with finished dimensions ranging from 4 inches to 4¾ inches across.

What You'll Create

This pattern produces three-dimensional knitted pumpkins suitable for seasonal decoration, gift-giving, or as part of a harvest-themed collection. The design includes a main pumpkin body with a stem and blossom end detail at the base, creating realistic pumpkin proportions and structure. The pattern demonstrates how to construct a fully-stuffed toy using basic knitting techniques.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Knitting in the round using double-pointed needles (dpns)
• Increasing and decreasing stitches to shape the rounded pumpkin form
• Stuffing techniques for creating three-dimensional toys
• Seaming and finishing details for the stem and blossom end components

Stitches and Construction

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. Construction begins with casting on stitches and working in the round, gradually shaping the pumpkin through strategic increases to build the rounded body, followed by decreases to close the top. The stem and blossom end are created as separate components and attached to the finished pumpkin body.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

Yarn: One skein of worsted weight yarn forms the main pumpkin body, with a small additional amount of worsted weight yarn needed for the stem and blossom end details. The pattern is adaptable to different yarn weights—using heavier or lighter yarn will produce proportionally larger or smaller finished pumpkins.

Needles and Notions: US 7 (4.5mm) double-pointed needles are recommended for worsted weight yarn. The pattern specifically advises using needles at least one size smaller than the yarn typically calls for, which prevents stuffing from showing through the fabric. Additional materials include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and attaching components, and polyester stuffing for filling the pumpkin.

Sizing and Gauge

The finished pumpkin size varies based on yarn weight used. For size 4 worsted weight yarn, expect a pumpkin measuring 4 inches (10cm) across. Size 5 yarn produces a larger pumpkin of 4¾ inches (12cm) across. Gauge for size 4 yarn is 14 stitches over 10 centimeters, while size 5 yarn works at 12 stitches over 10 centimeters. Maintaining proper gauge ensures accurate sizing and appropriate fabric density for stuffing.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern assumes familiarity with basic knitting techniques including casting on, knit and purl stitches, increases and decreases, and working in the round with double-pointed needles. The three-dimensional shaping and finishing details provide appropriate challenge for knitters progressing beyond beginner projects.

Designer Information

Harvest Moon Pumpkins is designed by Kiki Geiger, an independent pattern designer. The pattern was published in October 2019 and is available as a downloadable PDF through Kiki Geiger Designs.