The Prettiest Pumpkins of All: Pumpkin and Gourd Craft Ideas

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The Prettiest Pumpkins of All: Pumpkin and Gourd Craft Ideas

U-gouge tool carving leaf design into pumpkin

Blooming Pumpkin

1. Start by choosing a floral pattern of your own design or one you trace from another source. We used a pattern from floral-motif paper for a template, cut out a few of the shapes, and then traced them onto the pumpkin. A stencil, available at craft stores, is another option.

2. Draw or trace your design on your pumpkin with a china marker.

3. Using the U-gouge tool, carve out the design using the relief technique, which will remove only about a quarter inch of the top layer of rind. First outline each shape, then carve out the interior (see photo).

4. When done, cut a hole in the back of your pumpkin, scoop it out, and add tea-light candles, which will give off a soft glow.