How To Carve A Pumpkin

Carving a pumpkin is an American Halloween tradition. It may seem intimidating, but it's really quite simple. If you need help to create the perfect Jack O Lantern, read on! This page will teach you how to carve a pumpkin, step by step.

Introduction

If you want your Halloween guests greeted at the door by a smiling or scary Jack O Lantern, you'll first need to carve the pumpkin. Select your pumpkin, assemble a few basic tools, and get ready to have some creative fun.
How to Use a Stencil to Carve a Pumpkin

While most people carve their pumpkins following a freehand design, using a stencil allows you to create precise and intricate designs. This video shows you on how to transfer the design from a stencil to the pumpkin using an awl. After the design is transfered, you can carve the pumpkin using the instructions below.

Comments (2)

ssmacd added a comment September 26, 2009 02:32 AM
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Whats your favorite pumpkin design? Do you know a good source for stencils?

ninakat added a comment September 26, 2009 02:51 AM
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I love pumpkins that actually have words carved into them. That takes talent!

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Step 1: Select the Perfect Pumpkin
When looking at pumpkins for carving, you'll need to bring your artist's eye to the pumpkin patch.
1. Aim for a pumpkin with a flat bottom, so it will sit level on your steps.
2. A pumpkin's stem can add character to your Jack O Lantern, so you'll want to find one that doesn't have its stem broken off.
3. Examine the rest of the pumpkins looking for pumpkins with interesting ridges, bumps, and angles that will add character to your creation.
Step 2: What You Need to Carve a Pumpkin
1. Pencil with sharp point
2. Black Sharpie
3. Pattern or stencil and tape (optional)
4. Long bladed boning or fillet knife
5. Paring knife
6. Large spoon
7. Plenty of newspapers to cover the table
8. Votive candle
Step 3: Remove the Pumpkin Seeds
1. Using the boning knife, make angled cuts about 2 inches around the stem. You're not aiming for a perfect circle; a jagged look works well.
2. Remove the stem, and cut of the strings of seeds clinging to it.
3. Set the stem aside.
4. Using the large spoon, scrape out the seeds from the pumpkin and set aside to be roasted later.
5. Wash your hands before continuing, as they are probably slimy and may cause the knife to slip while carving.
Step 4: Sketch Your Design and Carve the Pumpkin
1. Tape a pattern or stencil to the pumpkin, if desired, or sketch out a mouth, nose, and eyes with your pencil.
2. After you're sure you have the design the way you want it, go over it with a black sharpie if you've done a freehand drawing, or trace around the edges of the stencil if you're using a pattern.
3. You can also get the pattern on the pumpkin by using a nail to push holes through the stencil into the pumpkin flesh.
4. Remove the taped stencil if you used it.
5. Cut out the areas of the pumpkin, using the fillet knife for large cuts, and the paring knife for smaller details, like teeth.
6. The pumpkin may be 2-3 inches in parts, so you may need to scrape away several layers while cutting.
7. Work slowly and carefully, always cutting away from yourself.
8. Discard the cut out pumpkin pieces.
Step 5: Display the Pumpkin
You don't want to carry the pumpkin with a lighted candle inside it, so make sure it's in its final location before you light the candle.
1. Place the pumpkin where you want it.
2. Insert the candle.
3. Light the candle with a long match or barbecue lighter.
4. Replace the top.
5. Step back and appreciate your creation.
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