Once you've found a smooth, symmetrical pumpkin, it becomes all about the tools. Look beyond the knife drawer to implements intended for other uses -- say, a melon baller or a keyhole saw. The following items will make quick work of the task at hand.
Linoleum Cutter
This item is used to carve detail into the surface of a pumpkin with great accuracy.
We recommend: Lino Set No. 1 (#40203-1009), $8.23, by Speedball, from dickblick.com
Pumpkin Carving Tools
Essential Tools
Once you've found a smooth, symmetrical pumpkin, it becomes all about the tools. Look beyond the knife drawer to implements intended for other uses -- say, a melon baller or a keyhole saw. The following items will make quick work of the task at hand.
Linoleum Cutter
This item is used to carve detail into the surface of a pumpkin with great accuracy.
We recommend: Lino Set No. 1 (#40203-1009), $8.23, by Speedball, from dickblick.com
Hole Cutters
Used by potters to create holes in clay, these short metal pipes with a sharp end and a capped one will work well on pumpkins, too.
We recommend: Hole cutters in assorted sizes, ($2.79-$3.19), by Kemper, from Blick Art Materials
Miniature Saws
The thin, sturdy blades on these saws are perfect for carving irregular shapes.
We recommend: Keyhole saw blade, X-Acto #15 (LXKY31), $7.79 for 5 blades, and X-Acto Knife #2 (LXKY73), $ 2.89, from Tower Hobbies
Wood Gouges
Create strips in the shell of the pumpkin using these carpentry items.
We recommend: Wood Gouges for $15, from Quality Carving Supplies
Keyhole Saw
The sharp teeth on this saw can slice through a pumpkin's tough shell, and its flexible blade allows for curved cuts.
We recommend: Keyhole saw (247261), $5.47, from Lowes
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