How to Carve a Pumpkin in Under 10 Minutes

Carving pumpkins is as traditional as apple pie, and when the fall season hits there is no better family activity to engage in. Whether you are looking to learn as a beginner, or want to make the holidays festive, learning how to carve a pumpkin in under 10 minutes is as simple as can be. So, where to begin?

Choosing the proper pumpkin is the best way to ensuring that you'll have a beautiful carving when all is said and done. What you need to look for is one that is exceptional smooth to the touch, with no soft spots or considerable visible damage. It is also of the utmost importance that you choose a pumpkin that is of the ideal size you want your shape to be, in addition to having a flat bottom so it is easy to work on and display.

Next, set the pumpkin upright, and with a swift continuous downward motion, cut a square out on top, slicing 360 degrees. The hole does not need to be too large, in fact the smaller the better, however it is crucial that it is big enough to fit your hand into.

From there you are going to want to clean the inside of the pumpkin out as thoroughly as you can. The quickest way is to just use your hands to take out the seeds and goop that resides within. Once you get closer to hollowing out the pumpkin, a spoon works fabulous to rid it of all its remaining innards.

So what do you want your pumpkin to look like? Grab some fly paper, butcher paper, or even regular paper if that is all that is available, and using the size of your pumpkin as reference, draw a rough sketch of the face or shape you would like to see on it upon completion. This drawing will serve as your shape template, so make sure you have it as accurate as you want it from the get go. When you are done with your pattern, pin it to your pumpkin. Tape also works, however pinning it will allow more maneuverability.

Here is where the fun begins! Using a store bought pumpkin tool, poke holes on your piece of paper, tracing the edges on the pattern you have pinned. It is basically like making dotted lines around your entire shape going through the pumpkin. If you do not have a pumpkin tool, a nail works just as effectively.

At this point it is time to saw away! Insert your pumpkin tool saw horizontally and meticulously cut through the dotted lines you made previously. The more careful you do this the more accurate your pattern will be, and the better it will look once illuminated. Contrary to popular belief, it is not recommended to use a knife for this part of the process. Pumpkin saws are designed to cut through precarious angles, not to mention are leaps and bounds safer than a standard kitchen knife. When you are cutting the corners with your saw, do them precisely over the dotted lines, as it will pay huge dividends in how long your pumpkin will last and remain aesthetically pleasing.

Do you see a face on your pumpkin now? You officially have a Jack-O-Lantern! Remember the top you cut out before? Remove it from the pumpkin and place a light source inside to make your pumpkin come to life! Candles add a mood setting flicker to your Jack-O-Lantern, however battery lights are highly recommended both for longevity and safety purposes. Worried about your pumpkin's shelf life? No matter, for you can extend how long it sits beautifully on your porch before withering away. If you are choosing to use candles for illumination, cut a small rectangular chimney hole with your saw tool on top of the pumpkin. This will allow a proper exit for the smoke, and more oxygen for the candle to breathe. This combination will ensure a long lasting pumpkin and a great Halloween prop for all your neighborhood candy seekers to marvel at!