How to Pick & Carve a Gourd-geous Halloween Pumpkin

This page may contain affiliate links meaning we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you.

Click here to read our full disclosure statement.

Last updated on October 26th, 2023 at 01:05 pm

Halloween has to be one of the most fangtastic times of the year. It’s fun to get into the spooky spirit with all the scary decorations, creep-tastic foods, eerie-sistible costumes, and let’s not forget…Gourd-geous Halloween Pumpkin Carvings!

Pumpkin carving is one of those classic traditions. It doesn’t matter your age or level of carving abilities, it is always a howling good time. While carving a pumpkin is relatively simple, there are a few things to keep in mind while you are hunting for that perfect pumpkin for your display. We’ve assembled the steps necessary to pick and carve your Halloween pumpkin.

Pick a Pumpkin That’s Ready to be Carved

When it comes to carving, you can save yourself some time by choosing a pumpkin that’s ready to be carved.

Find pumpkins that have a smooth surface free of blemishes versus having deep ridges or discolorations.
Check for any soft spots or signs of rotting.
The longer the stem, the slower the rotting process. DO NOT carry your pumpkin by the stem which can easily snap. Be sure to always carry from the bottom.
Be sure your pumpkin sits up straight.
If you know the design you will be carving, find the shape that works for your design. Do you need tall and skinny or maybe small and round? Or just let the shape inspire what design you will later carve.
Finally, give your pumpkin a knock and listen for a hollow sound which means it’s ripe and ready to be taken home. The hollower the sound the easier to scoop out.

Let the Carving and Creativity Begin

Quick Tip

It’s always a good idea to line your work area with newspaper or a disposable tablecloth. It makes the clean-up easy!

Heads or Tails? You have two options when starting to carve your pumpkin. Either cut the top or cut the base.

Option 1 – Top: Angle your knife and carve a circle around the stem. Having your knife angled will keep the lid from falling into the pumpkin.
Option 2 – Base: Cut the base straight across. When you pull the base off, it will pull out a lot of the seeds and pulp.

Scrape and Thin

Scrape out the seeds and pulp (set aside).

Continue to scrape and thin the rind in the areas where you will be carving until it is about 3/4 inch to 1 inch thick.

Design Time

Either draw your design directly onto the pumpkin

Or tape a Pumpkin Carving Template to the pumpkin. Use a poking tool to poke small holes in the rind to outline your design.

Prepare to Carve

If you have a large bowl, place the pumpkin design side up in the bowl before you carve. This will help stabilize the pumpkin and keep it from rolling around while you carve.

With your knife or cutting saw, start carving from the center part of the design outward along the dotted lines or drawing.

Be patient and take your time.

Light it Up!

We recommend LED candles or lights. There are so many colors you can choose from to complement your design. By not using a traditional candle, the pumpkins will typically last longer.

Pumpkin Scraps Clean Up

Now that your pumpkins are carved, it’s time to clean up the pumpkin scraps.

Be sure to separate out the seeds and set aside for roasting. Check out our 6 Easy Ways to Make Seasoned Roasted Pumpkin Seeds.

Any pulp, pumpkin pieces, and post-Halloween pumpkins can be composted or buried in your garden. If you don’t garden, they can also be donated to your local farmers. The animals just love them!