Pumpkin Carving Tips

It’s Easy to Carve a Pumpkin!

You don’t need to be an expert to have a great time carving a pumpkin, and end up with something you can be really proud of.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a beautifully carved pumpkin in no time. If you are a youngster, make sure to get an adult to help you.

Step 1: Choose a template. If you need some design inspiration, click here to see our favourite carving designs.

Step 2: Prepare your workspace. Find a stable table, and cover it with newspapers. Place your pumpkin on top of the table

Step 3: Prepare your pumpkin. Use a large carving knife and cut a hole on the top of your pumpkin around the stem. You need to make sure to cut a whole big enough so you can get your whole hand in there. Grab a large spoon and start digging out all of the “guts” and seeds. Place this directly into a trash bin (or, if you’d prefer to roast your pumpkin seeds, set these aside).

Once you’re done gutting your pumpkin, grab a wet rag or a paper towel and wash any dirt off of your pumpkin. Then use a paper towel to thoroughly dry off your pumpkin.

Step 4: Cut the four corner guides on your template (this will help it fit over the curve of the pumpkin) and tape your template onto your pumpkin.

Step 5: Mark your pattern. Use a “push pin” to poke (every 1/8 inch or 0.5 centimeters) on the outline of every highlighted area of your pumpkin. Once you are done poking holes around the outline of each highlighted area, remove the pattern and tape from your pumpkin.

Step 6: Cut out your pumpkin template. Take your carving knife and start cutting out the marked areas (cut right on the dots). Take your time!

Step 7: Clean up your pumpkin and place a candle (electric lights are safest and recommended) inside.