20 Unique Pumpkin Carving Ideas (2024)

FAQs

How to do cool pumpkin carvings? ›

Using a mix of long and short carving strokes will create texture on the pumpkin. Spray vinegar on the carved areas so they last longer before adding your string lights. Tip: If your pumpkin isn't glowing much, you can thin the flesh of the pumpkin by scraping away more of the inside flesh with a spoon.

Carving Pumpkins

It is the Jack-O-Lantern pumpkin! These pumpkins were bred for carving, so they have little flesh (“pumpkin guts”) on the inside and thin walls that make it easy to carve and allow candles to shine through. Lumina pumpkins are also a fun choice for carving due to their eerie white skin.

To carve your pumpkin, and especially for the part where you cut the top off, you're going to need a good, sturdy serrated knife. We like this one from OXO that's likely to be stronger and sharper than anything you'll get in a plastic carving kit.

Bake or microwave it

For all large, difficult-to-cut squash and pumpkins (or a recipe where you're keeping the squash mostly whole, like this one), giving the whole thing a quick zap in the microwave or the oven is an insanely easy trick for softening the skin just enough to make cutting easier.

No need to grab a special carving knife—just use what you'd use for dinner. A serrated knife can cut through thick pumpkin rind with ease, while a paring knife can detail the most minute cut-outs.

Generally, carved pumpkins last between 3 to 5 days, but weather and sunlight can play a huge role in your lantern's life. If you live in a colder climate, your pumpkin could last up to a week, but if it's exposed to heat, it may only last a few days.

Polka dots pumpkin

This polka dot pumpkin is incredibly easy, its stunning to look at. The simple design is effective and eye-catching for a more subtle look. Carve out small dots and circles using small knives and skewers or make things easier with an electric drill.

Make the Pumpkin Glow

I used glowing fabric paint, which dries clear and is waterproof. Paint your pumpkin. Shine a bright light on the pumpkin, then turn out the lights. If the pumpkin does not glow as brightly as you would like, apply one or more coats of glow in the dark paint.