Pumpkin Carving for Beginners

And by beginners I mean this 26 year-old with a fear of knives. 

First, I learned from a seasoned vet that you're supposed to cut the top off by inserting the knife an an angle, not straight down into the pumpkin.  This will prevent the top from falling down into the pumpkin when you're done. 

Second, scoop out the seeds and pulp, also known as "pumpkin guts."  This part is easy, if messy.  No knives required. 



Third, come up with a design.  You can trace it onto the pumpkin with a washable marker if that helps.  Avoid lots of curved lines.  I quickly adapted my design from "moon and stars" to "just stars."  Stars are a super easy shape to do and give you an unconventional, but elegant design.



Fourth, add your candle (or flickering battery powered candle substitute) and display!