Halloween is around the corner, and that means one thing—pumpkin carving season is officially here. Whether the goal is a classic jack-o’-lantern or a trendy design inspired by this year’s viral creations, there’s no better time to get creative.
Interior Designer and “Traitors” star Frankie Rowan-Plowden shares her expert tips to help turn any pumpkin into a festive masterpiece. From clever carving techniques to imaginative decorations, here’s how to carve your pumpkin like a pro.
How to Hollow a Pumpkin
Start with a good foundation. For a stable base, cut your pumpkin from the bottom. Prefer a removable lid? Slice from the top instead. Once open, scoop out the seeds and pulp for a clean interior.
Pro tip: Use a whisk to remove the pulp quickly—it’s faster and less messy than a spoon.
Once hollowed, wipe the inside dry to keep it from becoming slippery while carving. This simple prep step makes a noticeable difference in how clean the final result looks.
Painting Instead of Carving
If traditional carving feels too messy or time-consuming, paint can work wonders. Old paint samples lying around the house are perfect for this. Use them to design quirky faces or geometric patterns for a modern twist.
Choose bold shades like purple, black, or green for a classic Halloween palette. Let the paint dry completely before adding details with a thin brush or marker pens.
Pro tip: For an even base color, spray paint your pumpkin. Once dry, draw your own unique designs. This technique creates a smooth, professional look with minimal effort.
Creative Pumpkin Faces with Cookie Cutters
Forget complicated knife work—cookie cutters are an easy and safer way to create detailed shapes. Perfect for families, this method makes carving accessible to everyone.
How to do it:
1. Pick your desired shapes—stars, moons, or classic eyes and mouths.
2. Press the cookie cutter firmly against the pumpkin.
3. Use a rubber mallet to push it through gently.
Replace candles with battery-powered LED tea lights for a safe flickering glow without fire hazards.
Accessorize for Extra Character
Why stop at carving when accessories can add personality? Give pumpkins a makeover using old hats, earrings, or face gems. These small touches instantly turn them into fun, expressive characters that stand out on any porch or party table.
Experiment with themes—add sunglasses for a “cool” pumpkin or a scarf for a cozy autumn vibe. The more creative, the better.
The “Pumpkin Brains” Game
Turn pumpkin carving into a fun activity for guests or kids with a spooky twist. Cut off the top, scoop out the pulp, and fill the inside with wrapped candies or chocolates. Cover it with cooked, cooled spaghetti for a slimy, brain-like effect.
Bonus Tip: Mix in a bit of tomato purée or ketchup with the spaghetti to give it an extra gross (and fun) look that kids will love.
Pumpkin carving doesn’t have to be complicated to be impressive. With these smart techniques anyone can carve or decorate like a pro. Whether your pumpkin glows, sparkles, or wears a hat, the key is to have fun with it.
This Halloween, let your creativity shine and give your pumpkin the attention it deserves.
