All Images by: Ashley Poskin
by ASHLEY POSKIN
After picking out that perfect pumpkin, you’re ready to carve. But before you get started, here are some tips to get the job done safely, accurately, and quickly.
Determine the side you want to cut your design into, then lay the pumpkin down, design-side facing up.
Using a compass saw or very sharp serrated knife, cut out a hole in your pumpkin. Cutting a hole in the bottom makes it easier to place the pumpkin over the candle jar.
Remove the round and discard if it’s from the bottom of the pumpkin. If you cut your hole from the top, keep it so you can put it back on once the pumpkin has been carved.
Using a scooping tool (a ladle works great!), remove all the seeds and flesh from the inside of the pumpkin. Save the seeds for roasting later!
Freehand or trace your design onto the pumpkin. To transfer a printed design, tape it to the pumpkin and trace around the edges using a needle tool or sharp awl.
Carefully cut out the design using a utility knife or small saw. To make perfect circles for eyes or other designs, use a drill with the corresponding bit size.
If you traced your design with a marker, be sure to cut just beyond the line so you won’t be left with bits of markings on your pumpkin.
If using a candle, place it in a jar with tall sides for safety. To be super safe, pick up a package of flameless tea lights.
To keep the squirrels away, spray the surface of the pumpkin with hairspray, place dog hair around the pumpkins, or spritz the surface with a blend of cayenne pepper and water.