Pro Tips for Carving Spooky Pumpkins
PRO TIP #1
Cut out the bottom. Instead of cutting the top off and risk losing it, cut the bottom off and throw it away. Can't fit your hand and spoon in the pumpkin? Make the hole bigger! The best part is that you can make the hole in the bottom as big as you need.
​
PRO TIP #2
Use a large metal spoon to scrape sides. Make the sides as thin as you can, especially the side you are going to carve. This will make carving the pumpkin much easier.
​
PRO TIP #3
Use toothpicks to hold your design in place. Pull the paper in every direction and place a toothpick to hold the template tight.
​
PRO TIP #4
Use a sharp knife or toothpicks to outline design. Go around the edge of the template with a sharp knife or toothpicks. There is no need to draw every line but enough to give direction. Make sure to define the edges and corners for easier carving.
​
PRO TIP #5
Don’t be afraid to use power tools. You can use a Dremel or a drill to assist in making outline. Then use the Dremel to
partially carve pumpkin instead of going all the way through. Also use the Dremel to define the edges of your fully carved parts.
PRO TIP #6
Use small sharp knives to carve. I know the kits at the grocery store look appealing but the dull knives that come with the kits are hard to use. Using a sharp knife can even be safer that a dull one because not as much force is needed. To make it easier, separate the carving into smaller sections.
​
PRO TIP #7
Check your self. It’s not in the video but use a flashlight and a dark space to make sure your pumpkin carving is defined enough on the fully carved parts and deep enough on the partial parts.
​
PRO TIP #8
Seal your pumpkin using petroleum jelly. Make sure to put it on all the open flesh of the pumpkin. This will help keep the pumpkin from decaying as quickly.
How to Paint Pumpkins (the Right Way)
Here’s what you need:
-
paintbrush (the cheap-o foam brushes work great for this)
-
acrylic sealer (spray or brush on)
-
acrylic paints
​
How to Paint Pumpkins Step-by-Step Tutorial:
STEP ONE: Prepare Work Area
Set up your work area. Lay down a drop cloth or newspaper to protect your work surface.
STEP TWO: Prep Your Pumpkin
Prepare your pumpkin for painting. Make sure it’s free of bruises and blemishes. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe off any dirt or debris.
STEP THREE: Apply Base Sealer Coat
Apply sealer to your pumpkin. Because the pumpkin is round, you will need to work on it one-half at a time. Apply the sealer to the first half, allow to dry, then apply to the second half. Give the second half time to dry before moving to the next step.
STEP FOUR: Time to Paint!
I should have forewarned you that this is a day long process – but it’s fun, so it’s okay! Apply the paint the same way you did the sealer, working on the pumpkin one half at a time. Allow the first half to completely dry before painting the second half. Allow the second half to dry.
At this point, take a good look at your work. Do you need a second coat? If so, repeat this step.
STEP FIVE: Apply Top Sealer Coat
Same instructions as step three above.
STEP SIX: Decorate
At this point, you might be done, especially if you painted a design on your pumpkin in step four. On the other hand, the real fun may just be starting – if so, pull out your hot glue gun, duct tape, craft foam, googly eyes, or whatever you had in mind – and decorate!