Pick up a carving kit. They should come with a scoop, drill tool, poking tool and a couple mini-saws.
Find a pumpkin with a smooth face that's roughly the size of the pattern you'll be using.
» More tips about WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Cut open the a lid and begin to remove the seeds and strings with your hands. Then use the scraper tool
(or a big spoon) to scrape the inner walls of the pumpkin clean and smooth.
» More tips about GUTTING
Trim off some excess paper and tape your pattern securely to the pumpkin.
Use the poking tool or a push pin to poke holes along the lines of the pattern
about 1/8 inch apart. Then remove the pattern.
» More tips about TRANSFERRING
Hold your carving saw like a pencil and begin sawing (up and down motion) along the lines,
connecting the dots. When a piece is completely cut out, gently poke it through with your finger.
» More tips about CARVING
Coat the cut edges with a layer of petroleum jelly.
This helps seal in the pumpkin's moisture, extending its life for several extra days.
When not on display, store in a cool dry place.
» More tips about PRESERVING
Light a small candle and place it inside the pumpkin. Plain white candles will give
off the most light. Or better yet, keep things safe with a battery powered pumpkin light.
» More tips about LIGHTING
Light your jack o' lantern, turn out the lights, and turn off the camera's flash.
Hold the camera very steady or place on a tripod.
» More tips about PHOTOGRAPHING
Know of trick not discussed here? Contact me and share your secrets!
