You’re not carving the David out of marble, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take your pumpkin carving seriously.  Not too seriously mind you, there’s still some trickery left to Halloween. And there’s nothing like a good pumpkin carving to get you in the spirit of the holiday.

You’ll need the proper pumpkin carving tools and if you please, stencil sets.  Most art supply and craft stores will have a varied supply.

Cut a round hole in the top.  Scoop the gunk and seeds out of the center. To really clean it out, rinse the inside out in the sink.  If you want, save your pumpkin seeds, salt them, drizzle them with a little olive oil, and throw them in the oven at 350.  They’ll be a great treat for the end of your carving session.

There are a million ways to carve a pumpkin.  The typical jack-o-lantern is still a favorite.  A grave-stove maker pumpkin is a great way to update the old gap toothed face.

If you really want to go for it, create some scarecrow pumpkins.

You can even turn your pumpkin into a candy bowl for trick-or-treaters.  Hollow out the center just the same.  Maybe carve the word “Treats” on the side (letter stencils are great for this), and fill it with assorted candy.

For those who are a little more skilled than the average carver, pick up a pottery tool kit and use either the loop tool or ribbon tool to scrape away the outside flesh of the pumpkin and create a ghoulish face.

If you want to make a night of it, throw a pumpkin carving party for your girlfriends.  Provide the wine, the treats, and the spooky décor. All your guests have to bring is a pumpkin and a Halloween spirit.

-Arianna Schioldager