Halloween How-To: DIY Halloween Pumpkins

Oct. 18, 2010— -- Carving your own Halloween pumpkin is an easy and fun activity for the whole family. Check out these carving tips from expert carver Sean Fitzpatrick, and get ideas, templates and step-by-step instuctions below.

Top 5 Do's and Don'ts of Pumpkin Carving

Tip #1

DON'T immediately start carving your pumpkin.

DO wash your pumpkin first in warm soapy water to reduce the spread of mold into the pumpkin.

Tip #2

DON'T cut the top off your pumpkin.

DO cut the bottom off your pumpkin to keep the moisture inside the pumpkin longer.

Tip #3

DON'T take the pumpkin guts out one scoop at a time.

DO scoop in one spiral motion, keeping the innards inside the pumpkin, until all of the strings and seeds are free from the walls. Then turn your pumpkin over a bowl and the insides will fall out in one drop.

Tip #4

DON'T carve big pieces out first.

DO start with smaller details towards the center of the design to avoid breakage.

Tip #5

DON'T put your pumpkin out as soon as you're done carving.

DO rub petroleum jelly on all cut edges to help preserve the pumpkin.