Well, Tomorrow is Halloween and it is our families tradition to carve our pumpkins the night before Halloween. And what a great Friday Family Fun activity pumpkin carving is... I have tried a lot of different carving techniques over the past few years, but the best one I have found is from Martha Stewart. I love her idea of cutting a hole in the bottom (rather than the top) and using an LED battery operated flameless candle rather than an actual candle. I am such a worry wart and this feels much safer than an open flame to me. ;)
Here are the basic steps to any pumpkin project, along with some of our tools of choice. Remember: The best pumpkin projects start in the patch. Search for pumpkins that are smooth, symmetrical, and firm.
Step 1
The first step is hollowing out the pumpkin. Use a keyhole saw to
cut the hole. If you'll be using a candle for illumination, you can cut
the hole in the pumpkin's top (always put the candle in a high-sided
glass and never leave unattended). For electric lights or flameless candles, make the hole
in the bottom or side so you can hide the cord.
Step 2
Scoop out flesh, pulp, and seeds with a plaster scraper or fleshing tool.
Step 3
Now it's time to transfer your selected designs (use one of our templates or draw your own). Affix it to the pumpkin, and trace the design by poking holes with a sharp awl, needle tool, or T-pin.
Step 4
Remove the template and carve along the pattern with a miniature saw
or linoleum carving tool. If you want to make holes in the pumpkin for
eyes, use a drill equipped with a 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch spade bit.
You can also get creative with patterns and designs using these 10 basic pumpkin-carving tools.
Step 5
If desired, place candles, small flashlights or battery-operated light sources inside your pumpkin. Tip: Prevent exposed areas of the pumpkin's flesh from turning brown by applying a film of Vaseline. Click here to read the entire artilce from Martha Stewart for yourself.
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