These pumpkin carving ideas are perfect for the beginner or expert. Try carving facial expressions, fun shapes and symbols, complex character designs, or geometric patterns for a unique jack-o-lantern
Pumpkin Carving Ideas to try this Halloween
Fall is by far my favorite time of year. Two of my favorite activities are making caramel apples and carving pumpkins! Pumpkin carving is a fun Halloween tradition. When carving your pumpkin this year, get creative with your design!
Consider carving an elaborate facial expression like a funny grin or excited eyes. You can also carve fun shapes and symbols like stars, hearts, or even your initials. For an extra challenge, try carving more complex designs like animals or Halloween characters. Geometric patterns also make for eye-catching pumpkin carvings.
No matter what you choose to carve, be sure to draw your design on the pumpkin first with a marker before cutting and scoop out the insides thoroughly. That will help the light shine through your carving.
Carving tips
- Picking your pumpkin. Choose a pumpkin that’s firm to touch (with no bruising or soft spots), has a sturdy stem and a flat base.
- Knife. The knife you use makes all the difference! Make sure it’s a sharp serrated knife so that it can easily cut into the hard surface. You might also want a pairing knife handy for carving out smaller designs.
- Scoop out the insides. Make sure to scoop out all the gunk and seeds. You want it to be completely clean on the inside when you’re finished. I’ve found that an ice cream scoop or large silver spoon works great.
- Make rough cuts first. Use the tip of the knife to make small holes in the pumpkin where your design will be. This allows you to trace it out first, then go back and carve it. You can avoid any major mess ups this way!
Frankenskull
This spooky mix between Frankenstein and a skull is a great Halloween Pumpkin carving idea. It’s an easy design and looks great!
woman’s day
Frankenskull via woman’s day
