Decorating pumpkins is one of my favorite things to look forward to in the fall. I like coming up with new pumpkin decorating ideas and my aunt is an excellent source for techniques as well. These 5 tips on making the right pumpkin might help you get started with some fantastic carving ideas.
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Choosing the Best Shape
The shape of your pumpkin can ultimately determine what type of face you are able to design. Some faces seem to be more suitable on short round pumpkins, while others look best on long narrow pumpkins.
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Draw the Face or Shapes on the Pumpkin
By drawing directly on the pumpkin, you will have a better idea of what the carving will look like. This is going to enable you to carve with fewer mistakes. You will also be able to see if any changes need to be made to your design before the actual carving takes place.
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Carving Isn’t the Only Option
Painting on faces can be just as fun and sometimes the details are much easier to create. Multiple colors of paint are available, whereas carving consists mostly of designs that are dependent on a light source. Permanent markers are also an option for those who might not feel their painting skills are up to par.
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Have the Right Tools
Being prepared to make your pumpkin creation will make it much more enjoyable. If you don’t start off with the right tools, then you might end up spending a lot of time hunting for them. Even if you aren’t sure whether you are going to carve, paint, or draw a face on the pumpkin, go ahead and collect anything you think you might possibly use.
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Collect Ideas Ahead of Time
The Internet is filled with brilliant ideas on pumpkin decorating. Many websites also have stencils that can be used to make some of the most detailed faces ever seen. I print off a variety of stencils and decorating ideas before I have pumpkins to carve. Once I get my pile of pumpkins, then I choose between the different ideas I have and see which one works best with the pumpkin shapes I have.
If you’re like some people and can simply whip up any kind of carved pumpkin face with a basic kitchen knife, then I commend you! I don’t consider myself to be talented enough to pull that off successfully, so I need lots of preparation time. Do you have any other tips you’d like to share for making the right pumpkin?
Top Photo Credit: strph
