How to Carve an S&T Pumpkin

1. Carve Out Top
   Carve a circular opening from the top of your pumpkin. Cut the lid at an angle so the outside diameter is larger than the inside. This prevents the top from falling into the pumpkin when it shrinks.
2. Clean and Scrape
   Clean out the seeds and strings using a large spoon or ice cream scooper. Scrape inner pulp away from the area you plan to carve until the pumpkin interior wall is about 1” thick.
3. Attach Pattern
   Trim the pattern and tape it to your pumpkin. Make pattern fit smoothly by folding the paper as needed. Tape the folds in place.
4. Transfer Pattern
   Use a sharp awl, needle tool or T-pin to transfer the pattern, poking along the outlines. When the design is completely transferred, remove the paper pattern.
5. Carve Design
   Use a sharp, straight-edged knife to cut, carving away from yourself. Start with the features closest to the center first and work outward. For tight corners, pull the saw out and reinsert to change direction. Use an X-Acto knife for details and the tip of a potato peeler to make small circles and curves.
6. Light It Up
   There are many candle-free options. Check stores for color-changing strobe lights, battery-operated tea lights and rainbow LEDs that are made specifically for pumpkins. If using a candle, select a votive or pillar candle placed on a plate large enough to catch any drips.
7. Snap a Photo and Share
   Show off your completed masterpiece. Tag your photo on S&T’s Facebook page, Instagram account or send a tweet to @MissouriSandT.

Play It Safe

Always use adult supervision – Let the adults or older children do the carving. Kids can still get involved with the process by helping pick out the pattern, drawing the pattern and cleaning out the inside of the pumpkin.