The time has come to turn unassuming pumpkins into frightful decorations. Whether you’re a veteran carver returning to tackle another gourd, just in it for the homemade roasted pumpkin seeds or cracking one open for the first time, there are simple tips to help you get the most out of it and with the least amount of frustration.
Have a wicked good time without the hand cramps, the hassle of stringy innards or quickly rotting, collapsing pumpkins spoiling the fun. If you like to work smarter, not harder, this is the pumpkin-carving guide for you. We’ve got you covered on the best tools for the job, which pumpkin to pick and how to enjoy your finished product for as long as possible.
Watch this video to see the tools that will help you carve a pumpkin
with ease.
Best pumpkin carving tools
You’re only as good as your carving tools. You can go with the store-bought kit that includes small, flimsy plastic tools that break, bend and get lost between Halloweens, but there’s a better way. Ditch those kits like a box of raisins in your trick-or-treat haul and opt for tools that will last year after year.
A serrated blade is the best tool for the job. A keyhole saw works well for larger sections of pumpkin, while a smaller serrated vegetable knife is ideal for finer cuts.
For smaller and more intricate details, use:
- A linoleum tool with multiple tips to scrape out patterns or etch the rind.
- Pottery tools for etching and fine details.
- A melon baller for perfect circles.
- Metal cookie cutters for fun shapes.
As for the inside, reach for a sharp-edged spoon, an ice cream scoop or even power tools. Yes, power tools — keep reading for the specifics!
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Pick the right pumpkin for carving
There are plenty of pumpkins to choose from: big ones, small ones, bumpy ones, white ones, narrow ones… and they all have different uses. Some are better for baking, while others are better for carving.
Pie pumpkins are best for baking, while the unique shapes and colors of heirloom pumpkins make them ideal for decorating.
Watch this video for tips on finding the perfect pumpkin to turn into your masterpiece.
Here’s what to look for on your quest for the perfect carving pumpkin:
- Sturdy walls and a healthy stem. Avoid pumpkins with any deep scratches or soft spots.
- Consistent coloring and a smooth rind.
- Listen for a hollow sound when you tap it.
- Locally grown pumpkins are often fresher and can be longer lasting.
As tempting as it may be, don’t carry the pumpkin by the stem; instead, hold it from the sides or underneath.
How to carve a pumpkin
You have the perfect pumpkin and your tools are ready. Now, it’s time to carve!
Wash it first to remove any mold or dirt from the gourd.
Invert the cleaned and dried pumpkin over a large bowl so the stem rests inside. Make sure the setup is secure to avoid any wobbles while using sharp tools.
Now, cut it open from the bottom. Trace a circle along the bottom with a marker, then cut with your saw. This keeps the stem intact and makes it easier to place the pumpkin around the light source.
Next up is cleaning out the inside. Skip the spoon and reach for a hand mixer instead. Use the beater or whisk attachment and run it along the wall of the pumpkin to loosen the pulp. If you need extra oomph, connect the attachment to your hand drill. This will give you more torque and control. For those extra-large pumpkins, use a paint-mixer attachment. Just be mindful of your fingers!
If you're planning to roast the seeds, check out these easy tips for separating them from the pulp.
With the inside cleaned out, it’s time to start your design. Sketch it first with a dry-erase marker, which wipes away easily if you need to start over. When you’re happy, reach for your smaller serrated knives and detail tools, and get to work.
Make your jack-o’-lantern last
If you’ve ever carved a pumpkin, you know it’s only a matter of time before it starts to decay and mold.
Try these tips to prolong the life of your gory gourd:
- Wash your pumpkin with soap and water and dry it completely.
- Apply petroleum jelly to the inside and carved edges. NOTE: Do not use an open flame near petroleum jelly. Consider alternative lighting methods, such as battery-powered candles or fairy lights.
- Keep your pumpkin in a cool and shady spot or refrigerate it during the day.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Your all-in-one guide to picking and carving pumpkins this Halloween
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