Pumpkin Carving Tips

Echo (l) and friends carve pumpkins.Remember, always have an adult help you when using knives or other tools.

1. Pick your Pattern

Select a pattern that you would like to use. There are many books you can buy that have patterns, or you can get them off of web sites. Remember, sometimes simple is better!

2. Pick your Pumpkin

Keep your pattern in mind while choosing a pumpkin. Do not pick a pumpkin with soft spots or dents.

3. Carving Tools

Most simple patterns can be done with ordinary kitchen knives. However, there are many safer and more efficient carving kits you can buy to help you create your designs.

4. Cut and Clean the Pumpkin

Cut a circle into the top of the pumpkin. Once the lid has been cut off, you can clean your pumpkin out with a metal spoon or scraping tool.

5. Apply and Mark the Pattern

Tape your pattern to the pumpkin and poke holes along the lines of your pattern with a pointed object such as a pen. The holes will be used as guides when you pull the pattern away.

6. Carving the Pumpkin

Carve along the dots that you have made. Always start in the middle of your design and work your way out.

A pumpkin carved with ghosts that says Trick or Treat.7. Insert the Candle

Carve out an area in the base of your pumpkin for a candle. A much safer alternative is to use a flashlight.

Tip

After a few days your pumpkin will begin to dry out and shrivel. Fill up your bathtub with cool water and soak your pumpkin in it for a few hours to perk it back up.