Pumpkin Carving Patterns Article!

Are you getting tired of the standard way of carving pumpkins? If so than this might just be what you are looking for. It's a new fad that's growing more popular year after year. This year we thought we would join right in. Designing patterns for pumpkins seemed to be a natural transition since we've been developing woodcraft patterns for over 10 years now. Instead of the standard jack-o-lantern faces, try something new and exciting. It’s easier than it looks and offers hours of family fun. Here’s how it’s done...

Take one of our designs from either Pattern #2028 or #2029. I’ve selected the cat design from Pattern #2028 for this demonstration. Select an appropriate sized pumpkin and center the pattern over the preferred good side. (You may have to enlarge or decrease the size of the pattern depending on the size of the pumpkin you have.) With a pointed tool, like a stylist or small finish nail, perforate the design into the pumpkin. Make sure that you poke enough holes through the pattern into the pumpkin and that the holes are close enough together so that when you pull the pattern off the pumpkin you can clearly see the image on the pumpkin from the holes that you have made. (These holes need not to go all the way through the pumpkin; rather just to indent (dimple) or break the skin of the pumpkin.) Cut a hole in the bottom of the pumpkin large enough to scoop out all of it’s seeds and proceed with removing all it’s contents.

Now you are ready to cut out your design. Starting in the center of your design working your way out, carefully, with a sharp knife or carving saw, cut along the dotted lines. Standard household knives are all you need to carve these designs but there are several tools available for carving pumpkins to make the job easier and more precise. We suggest making a trip to a Halloween store or searching on-line for such carving tools if so desired. Following the pattern as closely as you can and taking your time will guarantee success and hours of family fun. Remember safety always comes fist, be very careful using sharp objects and kids should only be carving pumpkins under close adult supervision.

To extend the life of your pumpkin after your down carving seal the pumpkin with a polyurethane spay. After the sealant has had ample time to dry add a light or candle and set it out for decoration this Halloween season. It’s just that simple and look at what you just created. Your neighbors will be in awe and surprised to find out that you carved it. Lets face it carving standard jack-o-lantern faces were fun, but wouldn’t you rather carve something a little more challenging? Have a Fun and Safe Halloween!

If you would like detailed instructions and a full-size pattern for this project, or a project just like it Pumpkin Carving #2028 Click Here! There is 15 patterns per set! Visit www.SherwoodOnline.com for more information.